Match Preview: Bristol City .vs. London City Lionesses

Bristol City .vs. London City Lionesses (Barclays Women’s Championship)

Robins High Performance Centre on Wednesday 8 February at 18:45, live on the FA Player

London City Lionesses, in action versus Sunderland A.F.C. (Image: thoughtsofawing)

Shall we try this again?

London City Lionesses travel to the Robins High Performance Centre to take on Bristol City in a pivotal match in the Barclays Women's Championship at 18:45 on Wednesday [8 February], with the match selected for live broadcast on the FA Player.

London City and Bristol City are separated by just three points at the top of the table, although the Robins hold a game-in-hand over Nikita Runnacles' league-leading squad.

The Lionesses are fine-form in the Women's Championship, with their last defeat coming on the opening day of the season.London City have won both of their league games since the winter break, beating Crystal Palace (5-0) and Sunderland (3-1).

Bristol City, meanwhile, dropped points at the weekend versus Blackburn Rovers, drawing 0-0 at Bamber Bridge. After the match, Robins head coach Lauren Smith said she was "disappointed" in the result and will be looking for an immediate reaction from her players.

The Lionesses have several must-watch players on the roster, including league-leading goal-scorer Sarah Ewens. The 30-year-old has eight goals on the season and added to her tally with an impressive volley against the Black Cats last time out.

Kyra Carusa, a deadline day signing, could also feature. The American-born Republic of Ireland international joined London City from HB Køge, the back-to-back champions of Denmark, and looked lively on her debut versus Sunderland.

Runnacles also has a wealth of options in defence, with Lois Heuchan and Lois Joel both producing impressive performances at the weekend.

Bristol City's title tilt was boosted on deadline day by the arrival of midfielder Rachel Furness, who started the season in the Barclays Women's Super League with Liverpool.

Other Robins to look out for include forward Shania Hayles, who is second in the race for the golden boot, and in-form goalkeeper Fran Bentley.

Tune into the FA Player at 18:45 on Wednesday to watch the match, or purchase tickets via Bristol City's website.

It promises to be a thrilling game, come on you Lionesses!