Moors Ladies get back to league duties on Sunday when they play host to struggling Hartlepool United in the NERWFL Premier Division at New Ferens Park (2pm kick-off).
Billy Shackleton’s side secured a safe passage into the semi-finals of the League Cup last time out when they swept Alnwick Town aside to keep alive their hopes of silverware.
Now their attention switches back to getting points on the board and they go into this weekend’s tussle with North East neighbours Pools sitting sixth in the table.
Moors ran out 5-3 winners when they made the short trip to Hartlepool in their opening league game of the season and will be hoping to complete a double over their rivals on Sunday.
Pools, who were promoted to the Premier Division alongside Moors last term, have found the higher level a challenge and currently sit bottom of the table with just one league win to their name.
However, Shackleton knows their performances and results have improved in recent weeks and is demanding that his players are right on top of their game on Sunday.
“Brent (Smithson, Assistant Manager) and I coached together at Hartlepool, so we know a lot of the girls and I am sure they’ll want to get one over on us,” Shackleton admitted.
“We’ve had some great games against them in the past couple of seasons and I would expect nothing less than another entertaining encounter on Sunday, so it should be a good one for the supporters.”
Shackleton is facing up to the prospect of playing out the season without the services of influential defender Coral Colledge after she fractured her tibia in the win over Alnwick.
Meg Foster suffered a setback following her return from injury last week and is unlikely to feature on Sunday, while a late decision will be taken on Beth Enguita after she aggravated an old ankle problem. Julia McGovern also remains sidelined.
“It’s no secret that we’re struggling with injuries at the moment, but that’s why we have the depth in the squad, and I know the girls who step in will be able to produce,” added Shackleton.
Kick-off at New Ferens Park is 2pm with admission just £3 for adults and completely free for all those under the age of 12. Refreshments are available to supporters.
