By Glenys Furness and Oliver Eaton
Huddersfield Town Women FC return to league action on Sunday for the first time since late January.
Following cup matches and postponements, the Terriers will be looking to kickstart their league campaign with three points from a trip to Stoke City Ladies FC. Town could move up to fifth if they win.
Stoke currently find themselves in ninth place, just six points ahead of the relegation places. The Potters come into the game on the back of three wins in all competitions, beating Sheffield FC, Brighouse and Sporting Khalsa (County Cup).
Last time out the Terriers dominated the match at the Stafflex Arena, beating Stoke 5-1 on the day.
The Terriers will be confident of repeating the victory when they are the visitors to Norton Cricket Club & Miners Welfare Institute. However, with Stoke finding some form recently, nothing can be guaranteed.
Manager Glen Preston believes their low position doesn’t reflect the challenge they pose and said: “There are a few teams who have significantly improved as the season has kicked on, Stoke is one of those sides. They are in great form at the moment, and so I expect a much tougher game than earlier in the season.
“Over the years Stoke have always been a top five side and so there is always this feeling to me, that they are in a false position and will eventually start to climb the table.
“Although we would love to emulate the score from our last encounter, the reality is that Stoke are more streetwise now and it will be a good but close game.”
How to watch
Kick-off is on Sunday February 27 at the Norton Cricket Club & Miners Welfare Institute at 2pm. Kick off time is subject to change depending on pitch surface.
Can’t make the game? As always, online coverage of the match will be available across all HTWFC channels including minute-by-minute updates on Twitter @HTAFCWomen plus match build up on Instagram. Highlights will also be released following the game for fans to catch up on the action.
