Moors Ladies approach a big game against Hartlepool United on Sunday looking to leapfrog their visitors in the NERWFL Northern Division table (2pm kick-off).

Having been defeated 3-2 at Pools on the opening day of the season, Billy Shackleton’s side will be keen to gain revenge as they seek to extend their current unbeaten run to eight games.

It’s a sequence of form which has seen Moors keep pace with those at the very top of the table and, sitting just two points behind second-placed Pools, they know this weekend could prove pivotal.

Shackleton, who was previously in charge of Pools Women, knows that his players should expect a stern examination of their unbeaten run during Sunday’s intriguing encounter.

“Hartlepool are a side I know well; they’re a good team with some quality players who have the ability to affect games,” he told us.

“However, these are the sorts of games you have to go out and win if you want to challenge in this league, so we have to be really up for it and we can’t afford any slip-ups.”

Shackleton was boosted by the return to fitness of top scorer Autumn Colledge as she blasted a hat-trick during last weekend’s eye-catching win at Pools Youth.

However, long-term injury absentees Monika Kisicka, Julia McGovern, Drew Seymour and Chloe Wymer remain on the sidelines and won’t feature against Pools.

“We’d love a good amount of Spennymoor fans to turn up and cheer the girls on,” said Shackleton.

“They really make a difference and I know the girls buzz from every cheer. I’ve been delighted with the backing we’ve received this season; it means a lot to all of us.”

The game will take place at 2pm at East Durham College’s Houghall Campus in Durham and admission is free for all supporters.