Southgate last faced Bristol Firebrands in a tense 2 loss down in the West Country on the 20th September in their season opener. Southgate were 2-1 up in the until the 56th minute after goals from Emma Postings and Lettie Hughes before the Firebrands pulled back a victory from the jaws of defats with a penalty stroke the difference in the 68th minute. It was a game when coach Ronan Casella felt perhaps points were left behind in Bristol.
With that in mind and after a run of tough results the W1 will be looking to finish their first part of the season with a strong performance and 3 points to send them back up the table. Bristol meanwhile under coach Luke Hansford have found some form and have 2 wins from with another 2-3 result last week this tome to Guildford. Captain Isabella Swain in form in front of goal with the 44th minute winner. Lizzie Cook is also looking a real threat after a brace the previous week against The Charleston Magpies in another win this time 3-0.
The Firebrands struggled last season but the team has performed consistently this year with 14 points and a positive goal difference sitting in 5th. Meanwhile for Southgate good performances have not always equated to points and sit in 8th 3 points behind Sevenoaks who Ellie Robinson and her players will be looking to eclipse in the table with a win on Saturday afternoon.
Some illness in the team this week may necessitate some late changes- but the team have reported back a good week of training and a very positive reaction to the the performance in Exeter which all but for a tired last quarter down to 10 players saw the team compete well against the league leaders. Southgate are still chasing their first win on home soil this season so be sure to come down and lend them your support on Saturday afternoon.
14:30 Division One South, Southgate W1 vs Bristol Firebrands W1