South Shields Women take on their toughest challenge yet this Sunday as they travel to divisional leaders Barnsley FC Women (2pm kick-off).
The Mariners head south off the back of a narrow 0-1 win against Alnwick Town Ladies, which saw Jaz Elliott-Wood break the deadlock thanks to a 45-yard screamer of a free-kick.
Barnsley are in red-hot form themselves, having won their last six league matches and they currently occupy first place in the NERWFL Premier Division, five points ahead of Shields.
It is important to stress that teams have all played an unequal amount of games, and the lasses have three games in hand over the Tykes as things stand.
A win would preserve the lasses' ongoing unbeaten streak while extending their goal difference even further.
Matt’s thoughts
Head coach Matt Gatiss believes the next test will pose a different challenge to that of Alnwick but understands their talent, which has brought them to the summit of the table in late January.
He said: “In terms of the Barnsley game, it’ll be completely different, it’ll be a different challenge. We know what Barnsley are like… they’re a good side.
“Every side in this league is a good side to be honest and we know that they’re one of the few teams that will probably put us in the same bracket, who try to play football the right way.
“That’s where we’ll try to exploit them and also we’ll respect them.”
Information for supporters
Kick-off at Oakwell Stadium 4G (S71 1ET) is at 2pm this Sunday, January 28th.
Entry is free and we’d appreciate any and all support - this game is a big one and it would go a long way!
Supporters can expect social media updates throughout the day, as well as a recap and video package to follow after the game.
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