Sunderland Women will be looking to back to winning ways on the road this weekend with manager Mel Reay well-armed in her preparations for the visit to Southampton.
The Lasses suffered defeat at Eppleton against London City with Amy Rodgers and Sarah Ewan scoring both the goals in a 2-0 win. The result leaves them second bottom of the Women’s Championship table.
“We knew the way they were going to play and we were well organised” said manager Reay.
“Then they scored the first goal which has been deflected, that hasn’t helped. We struggled in possession and we struggled to create some chances. We didn’t get high up the pitch and we were too deep so I’m quite disappointed.”
Things could have gone from bad to worse for Sunderland when Neve Herron was forced off in the closing stages of the game due to a facial injury.
However, the injury is not as bad as first feared as Reay continued: “She took a whack to the nose but she will be fine for next week. The doctor has cleared her.”
Up next for the Lasses is a long trip down south where they face Southampton Women’s at St Mary’s. Despite the Saints only tasting defeat just once this season, Reay is going into the game knowing what to expect.
She added: “We know Southampton well. We have played them previously in the FA Cup. I know Marieanne (Spacey) personally as well and she will have them well organised. There will be two teams going head-to-head who want points off each other.”