Moors Ladies return to NERWFL Premier Division action on Sunday when they play host to fellow league-leaders Sunderland West End in an exciting fixture at New Ferens Park (2pm kick-off).
The two sides played out an entertaining 3-3 draw during pre-season and now fans can look forward to more drama as the only two teams who boast 100% records so far face-off in Durham.
West End currently sit top of the Premier Division table, above Moors on goal difference alone – but something has to give this weekend as the two in-form outfits collide.
“Sunderland West End are a side we feel somewhat familiar with having played that friendly against them during the summer,” explained Moors Ladies boss Billy Shackleton.
“They’re a team who can punish anyone as we’ve seen with their results so far this season – we know they have a number of very good players for this level so they’re a real threat.
“However, we’re high on confidence having made a stronger start than I think most expected, but I always knew we’d put together a good group here, so it’s not been a surprise to me.
“Now it’s about remaining focused and continuing to build on the wins we’ve had. We won’t get any easy games at this higher level, especially not on Sunday, so we will have to be at our best again.”
Shackleton is facing some selection dilemmas at the weekend after last Sunday’s battling victory over Ponteland United in the FA Cup came at a cost.
Moors’ Goal of the Month winner Beth Enguita looks set for a few weeks on the sidelines after injuring her ankle during the early stages of that 1-0 triumph.
Becca Drinkald, Hannah Knox and Holly Middleton are all unavailable on Sunday, while Katy Hemmingway and Julia McGovern both face late fitness tests ahead of the game.
Meanwhile, skipper Alex Saunders is in line to make her 50th appearance for the Club this weekend after performing strongly in the centre of defence in recent weeks.
“Alex is an absolute star,” Shackleton told us.
“Her commitment to the Club is on another level and to be making her 50th appearance is a fantastic milestone for her.
“She’s been immense for us whether playing at the back, in midfield or even in goal and she deserves all the plaudits this weekend.”
The game on Sunday will be played at New Ferens Park where admission is just £3 for adults and completely free for all those under 12. Food and drink is also available.
Meanwhile, it’s been confirmed that Moors Ladies’ FA Cup tie against Wakefield on Sunday 22nd October will be played at The Brewery Field (2pm kick-off).
