SSFC Women kick-off pre-season with Cestrians visit

South Shields Women get their pre-season programme underway this Sunday when they face NERWFL Premier Division champions Chester-le-Street Town Ladies (2pm kick-off).

The lasses face a Cestrians outfit who have already played a couple of pre-season games, featuring wins against Sunderland West End Ladies (3-0) and Newcastle United PGA (2-1). 

Meanwhile, it will be Shields' first outing ahead of a challenging schedule over the coming weeks, with the likes of Durham PGA and Middlesbrough FC U23s coming up shortly.

The Mariners played Chester-le-Street Town three times last season - a 4-0 defeat in the DCFA Women’s Cup, a narrow 1-0 loss at home in the league and a 2-1 victory on the road.

Our last away visit:

Shields became the only team to beat the Cestrians in the league back in January, with a 2-1 win at Ford Hub.

Annece Legg and Cat Abusada got the goals for the Mariners that day, and despite a 50th minute goal from Molly Wilcock, the hosts couldn't mount a comeback in the inclement conditions.

Watch back the key moments from that game below.

Alex's thoughts:

Co-Head Coach Alex Miller previewed the first game of this pre-season schedule.

Watch her interview below, in which she discusses the lasses' preparations in training, as well as how the achievement of last season's away win could help the team this time around.

Annece’s thoughts:

Annece Legg spoke to us in the run-up to this Sunday’s fixture. 

She said: "I’m absolutely thrilled to be back on the pitch - it’s been a long wait, and I’ve missed the game over the summer.

"I can’t wait to get out there with the squad... it’s going to be a good one!"

Information for supporters:

Kick-off at Moor Park (DH2 3BX) is at 2pm this Sunday, August 10th.

Entry is free, but voluntary donations are welcome on the gate.

Visit our social media channels for updates before, during and after the game (@SSFCWomen on Twitter/X and @southshieldswomenfc on Instagram).

Please come and give the lasses your support, as it will be the first chance to see them in action this pre-season!