Match Preview: Stourbridge FC Women v AFC Fylde Women
AFC Fylde Women are looking to make a positive start to 2024 when they face Stourbridge FC Women at the War Memorial Athletic Ground on Sunday.
This weekend marks the anticipated return of the FAWNL Northern Premier Division following the festive break. And with it, the Coasters travel to the West Midlands to meet the Glass Girls on Sunday 7th January, with kick-off at 2.00 pm.
It is safe to say that it has been a difficult first half of the campaign for Fylde, who are currently under the stewardship of Interim Manager Connor Wild. Heading into the new year, the team will be keen to see an upturn in their fortunes as they seek to climb the table.
The Coasters were last in action in mid-December when they suffered an away defeat to Newcastle United Women at Kingston Park. On a tough afternoon for the visitors, Becky Langley’s high-flying Magpies exerted their dominance and ran out convincing winners to stretch their lead at the top of the division.
Stourbridge Women closed out 2023 with an impressive 3-2 win at home to Huddersfield Town Women. After a goalless first half, the game sprang to life in the second period as the Glass Girls came from behind to edge a five-goal thriller against the Terriers. At the halfway point of the season, Stourbridge sit eighth in the table with a nine-point cushion over the relegation places.
Last September, Stourbridge parted company with Andy Fisher, who stepped down from his position as First Team Manager after a long and successful tenure with the club. Mike Harris has since been appointed as the First Team Manager and has continued to oversee the team’s progression in the third tier.
When the two sides last met in mid-September, it was the Glass Girls who claimed all the spoils with a 2-0 win at Kellamergh Park. On that occasion, the Coasters showed strong attacking intent but struggled to convert their chances. Instead, Stourbridge claimed their first win of the season courtesy of goals from Kelsey Richardson and Niamh Deasy.
As the Coasters prepare for the return fixture this Sunday, they will be eager to put things right and come away from the West Midlands with a positive result.
Supporters travelling to the game can purchase tickets in advance on the Stourbridge FC website. Further details can be found on our social media channels.
Words by Scott Jones
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