Miller: SSFC Women will be “focusing on making sure we stick to our game plan!”

South Shields Women head coach Alex Miller has spoken to us ahead of tomorrow’s NERWFL Premier Division fixture against Harrogate Town Women.

Read below to find out what she had to say about Sunday’s game, as well as the bigger talking points among the lasses’ season so far, as we approach the winter break. 

Q: What was your reaction to the York RI game last week being called off? 

“The team were really up for last weekend's game and were gutted to find it wasn’t going ahead. 

“I’m still feeling positive looking forward though, despite being frustrated with not having a game last weekend. 

“We’re desperately wanting to get a good performance and result under the belt, to bring ourselves back to our best before going into the Christmas break.”

Q: Fingers crossed all goes well on Sunday and we’re able to play our first league game in almost a month! How do you reflect on getting stuck into that challenge? 

“It feels like it’s been so long since we played a league game! 

“I’m looking forward to getting back into it and fully applying ourselves. 

“We knew this league was going to be a tough one – it gets more competitive each and every year, testament to the continued growth  and investment of women’s football in the North East. 

“We’re in a position where our fate isn’t just going to be determined by ourselves, but also the teams around us. 

“All we can do is concentrate on the factors we can control, such as holding ourselves to high standards, bringing our best attitudes and high intensity. 

“If we dedicate ourselves to the cause, there’s no reason why we can’t find ourselves in a very positive position as the season progresses.”

Q: The visitors, Harrogate, have found things tough so far. We must focus on ourselves to do what’s needed, despite what the table might suggest?

“Harrogate have had a difficult start to the season, but by no means are written off. 

“We’re more than aware of what other teams are capable of, even when they’re not in the best of form. 

“We learnt our lesson against Hull! 

“As always, we’ll be focusing on making sure we stick to our game plan and that the intensity and mentality is where it needs to be.”

Q: In terms of the team news, I imagine it must be business as usual?

“Yes, it most certainly is business as usual.

“We’ve had quite a few illnesses this week, which isn’t ideal, but it’s no surprise given the time of year it is. 

“But thankfully, we should have a full strength squad out on Sunday.”

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto)