.png)
London City Lionesses .vs. Bristol City (Barclays Women’s Championship)
Princes Park on Sunday 19 March at 14:00, with highlights available on the FA Player
London City Lionesses interim head coach Nikita Runnacles always provides the same answer when asked to preview the week ahead.
“We have to approach this weekend the same way as we did last time,” explained the 32-year-old in her weekly media availability. “We were really focused on the training ground and were rewarded with the result against Lewes last Sunday. It’s the same this week in terms of executing our plan through the week and on gameday.”
While the Lionesses pride themselves on their one-match-at-a-time philosophy, their next contest is a major test. When Bristol City arrive at Princes Park on Sunday, they will lead the Barclays Women’s Championship by six points. The Lionesses plan to cut their advantage by the time they travel home.
Use the code Pride50 to receive your tickets for half-price!
“We just need to be clinical,” Runnacles added when asked to reflect on London City’s 3-1 defeat to Bristol City last month. “I think that was the story for us in that match. We created some really good chances last time.
“Their goalkeeper came up with a couple of great saves, but it’s up to us to make sure we create those opportunities and ask those questions. It’s like any other match: we need to be fully focused and take the chances we create.”
While the Lionesses fell just short in their previous encounter with Bristol City, the squad is optimistic ahead of the rematch. London City dominated the first-half of their last match – a 3-1 win over Lewes – and have developed extra confidence after Kyra Carusa marked her full debut with a goal.
“I just know that we were relentless,” the Republic of Ireland international said. “That mentality is in our blood and I would fear the fact that we can play like that. It’s a grind every weekend in this league, but I’m excited for what’s to come.”
When asked about the prospect of playing the Robins, she added: “I’d say we’re ready for Bristol City. We have to keep this mentality and focus on what we can control. I’m excited for it.”
Form Guide:
London City Lionesses | Record: 10-3-3 | Position: 2nd
London City 3-1 Lewes F.C.
London City 1-2 Sheffield United
Birmingham City 0-1 London City
Bristol City 3-1 London City
London City 3-1 Sunderland A.F.C.
Bristol City | Record: 12-3-1 | Position: 1st
Bristol City 3-0 Durham F.C.
Bristol City 3-0 Crystal Palace
Lewes F.C. 0-1 Bristol City
Bristol City 1-8 Manchester City (Vitality Women's FA Cup)
Bristol City 2-0 Lewes F.C.
Statistical Leaders:
London City Lionesses
Goals: Sarah Ewens (ten)
Assists: Shanade Hopcroft (eight)
Lewes
Goals: Shania Hayles (nine)
Assists: Abi Harrison (five)
London City Injuries/Suspensions:
Carly Girasoli (lower-body)
Charlotte Fleming (lower-body)
Lily Agg (four-match suspension)
Comments