The ending of Ward’s latest chapter could not have been written any better.
Villa host a Manchester City side who go into Saturday’s game level on points with Chelsea – both knowing they could win the title on goal difference on the final day.
It is a blockbuster fixture, to be shown live on BBC Two at 15:00 BST and played in front of a strong crowd at Villa Park.
So what would the perfect send-off be for Ward?
“Three points. We like playing against Manchester City. The last few years we’ve had some good games against them,” said Ward.
“They are a team that play in a way that I love. We want to win the game. It’s as simple as that. I couldn’t care less about what goes on elsewhere, I just care about trying to get maximum points.”
Ward also laughed off any notion that her side would “park the bus” and try to reduce City’s goal difference.
“My take is that they have to try to come and win by four goals. Have we ever parked the bus against Manchester City? I think you know the answer to that,” she added.
“We haven’t, we’ve always played in our way against City and it’s been an enjoyable game. You really think I’m going to park the bus in my last game?
“I want to go out on a high. I want to attack the game. That’s what we’ll do.”
The WSL title will be awarded to Emma Hayes’ Chelsea side or Gareth Taylor’s Manchester City squad. Both are managers Ward respects greatly.
“May the best team win. They have both had exceptional seasons. But honestly, I care about going out on my own high, making sure we conduct ourselves in the right way and get something from it.
“Whoever wins [the title] come 5pm on Saturday will be deserving of it. Whoever misses out will feel hard done by – but that’s football. We’re not there to help one or the other, only to try and get three points.”
