Table-topping Moors Ladies will continue their title push on Sunday afternoon when they play host to Wakefield in the NERWFL Premier Division at New Ferens Park (2pm kick-off).
Billy Shackleton’s side have stormed to the summit of the division on the back of an outstanding run of form which has seen them win four league games on the spin and smash 16 goals in the process.
A crucial and dramatic win at promotion rivals Wallsend last time out underlined their growing confidence and now they must ensure they keep their foot on the pedal against seventh-placed Wakefield.
Moors have had the edge over Wakefield in previous meetings this season, having run out 3-0 winners when they met in the league in January and knocking the Yorkshire outfit out of the FA Cup in October.
Sunday’s game has been switched back from The Brewery Field to New Ferens Park’s artificial turf amidst concerns for further bad weather this weekend, with Shackleton sensibly prioritising getting the fixture played over enjoying the experience on the main pitch.
“Wakefield are a dangerous side, but we know how important it is to maintain our momentum,” admitted Shackleton.
“It’s been a very long season, but we know we’re so close to ticking off a number of the goals we set for ourselves, and we have to keep on working hard.
“We enjoyed the week off over Easter and hopefully that’s given the girls a chance to rest and prepare for a tough run-in so we’re as confident as ever of securing a positive result on Sunday.”
Shackleton, who will celebrate his 50th game in charge this weekend, is boosted by the return of influential forward Abi Kisby, but skipper Alex Saunders is unfortunately unavailable, while Coral Colledge and Meg Foster remain sidelined through injury.
“There have been moments when I didn’t think I would reach 50 games!” laughed the Moors boss.
“To reach the milestone is amazing, and I have to say the players and staff here have been a pleasure to work with so hopefully we can mark it with a win on Sunday.”
Fans are encouraged to get along to New Ferens Park in Durham this weekend to support Moors Ladies in action, with admission prices just £3 for adults and free for all those under 12.
