Naylor hopes for a "good battle" with SSFC Women against Sunderland West End this week

Erin Naylor is hoping for a “good game” on Sunday as South Shields Women take on Sunderland West End Ladies in the DCFA Women’s Cup.

The Mariners have been longing for action for a handful of weeks after the Liverpool Feds Women’s FA Cup game almost three weeks ago, but postponements due to the bad weather have put to a stop any chance of a league game this side of Christmas.

She said she was looking forward to the Harrogate Town match in order to move past the cup game.

Naylor commented: “It would’ve been good to get back playing in the league, as it was a big focus in analysis for us after our FA Cup run, especially after not having a game in the league for a month.” 

Shields have found themselves in a position whereby they have made the quarter-finals without playing a game, since would-be opponents Chester-le-Street Town Ladies Development and Ferryhill Miners United Ladies both withdrew. 

The two teams met in September in a thrilling 4-4 draw and Naylor hopes much of that can be repeated again. 

She added: “The last time we were up against Sunderland West End it was a good battle and a good game to watch, so hopefully Sunday will be the same.”

A positive result would mean a lot given the team’s upward trajectory since the start of the season.

There are many positives to take from the campaign so far and she has highlighted the team’s mentality as being a key area which has gone from strength to strength. 

“Our improvement since the start of the season has been great, also our mentality has improved massively,” said Naylor. 

“We have come back from games where the odds weren’t in our favour.”

Naylor had a final message for the supporters ahead of the extended winter break, with it being her last opportunity to thank them for their incredible backing throughout the season so far. 

She said: “The fans have been a big part of this year and I know it helps the girls on the pitch when it gets tough and it means a lot when they come to watch us.

“It would be great for that to continue going into the new year.”

Kick-off at Harton Welfare (NE34 0NA) this Sunday, December 15th is at 1:30pm and is free entry - with it being the last game of the year it would mean so much to give us your support!

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto)