ReactionMarie Höbinger 'really grateful' after first LFC Women start in nearly a year
The midfielder scored twice in a 4-2 win over Sunderland at St Helens Stadium in the Reds' Subway Players Cup opener.
Having appeared three times off the bench in 2026-27, Höbinger began a match on Wednesday night for the first time since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Manchester City at Anfield last October.
"I'm really happy to get a start and I really enjoyed tonight being out there, playing football again," she said post-match. "I think it feels amazing after that long time.
"Really grateful and I massively enjoyed playing with my friends and [it was] good to get the win.
"It's been a very tough time and maybe a few more battles to fight in that period of time, but I'm really proud to be on the other side of it. I also got a lot out of rehab.
"I'm just really excited for the season ahead and every single game that's coming.
"I'm really happy I could contribute and help the team – that's obviously my job. So, I'm really happy I could score today."
Gareth Taylor's side took the lead through Zara Shaw in the league-phase clash but then found themselves 2-1 down at half-time.
However, a Höbinger double, plus Natalia Ramos' run and finish, turned the game around again.
"It was good. We obviously made some changes, so it's always hard to find a rhythm," the No.14, who captained the team on the night, continued.
"But I think it was just good to see that we could just level up in the second half.
"Very pleased with four goals and I think overall a good team performance."