She played at centre forward for Blyth Spartans and England, scoring 133 goals in one season in her team's unbeaten run of 30 matches to win the Munitionettes' Cup and was the best-known player.
However, the game was still popular with matches held between amateur teams to raise morale, entertain and collect charitable funds.
[3] It rapidly became the best women's football team in North East England, substantially aided by Reay's skill.
However, several women's football matches were organised in 1921 to raise funds for miners and their families during a three-month coal dispute.
[3] A commemorative Blue Plaque was installed on the stand at Croft Park, the home of the current Blyth Spartans AFC in November 2018.