Southgate’s Women are gearing up for a big match against Bristol Firebrands who make the long journey from the South West hoping to continue their winning form.
Southgate skipper Ellie Robinson meanwhile will be hoping to build on a good away point against the Harleston Magpies in the last game on the 8th February. Meanwhile the Firebrands come off the back of two big wins against Wimbledon and the always challenging Sevenoaks. Defensively the side led by captain Isabella Slawin have been rock solid conceding just one goal since the 30th November.
Firebrands sit 7th in the league behind 5th placed Southgate. Whilst Firebrands have shored up their defence in recent weeks they have lacked for goals up front with just 9 scored in 12 goals representing the lowest in the league- and compared to Southgate who have put away 24 since the start of the season. Yet despite the worst goal difference Firebrands sit clear and reasonably comfortable outside the drop zone and their ability get results shows a resilience and determination which suggests a tough game is incoming.
The away game back on the 12th October in Bristol exemplified that resulting in a 2-1 win for Southgate- Bristol equalising and then pushing hard for get back on terms after Katie MacCallum put the visiting side back in front in the 38th minute.
We caught up with the Southgate coach Andy Richardson for his view on the upcoming contest,
“Firebrands come to Snakes Lane on a run of form as well, having won their last couple of games. They will be a very difficult side to beat and the squad know that to get any points in this league you have to be at your best for the whole game. We are really looking forward to the game and the start of the final push towards the end of the season.”
Southgate vs Bristol Firebrands
14:00, 22nd February
Venue: Southgate Hockey Centre
