Pre-season has been extremely difficult to navigate for the Huddersfield Amateur Ladies. While both squads are in great shape with good numbers; absences, holidays and other commitments have hampered preparations, according to head coach Richard Brearley.
The Ladies have played games, but on every occasion have had to field teams that have had a mixture of both 1st and 2nd team players.
On preparations for the season, Brearley said: “Despite the difficulties, it has been great to see the teams integrate and work together. It has also been a worthwhile exercise having the 2nd team making the step up playing top opposition. The experience should set the players in great stead for the challenges ahead.”
On the club’s recruitment, Elyza Binns has returned to the team and looks to be on top of her game meanwhile long-time target Becki Woolin has also signed.
Brearley said: “Both players have been on our radar for some time. Already we can see they bring the extra quality we wanted going into the new campaign.
“We have also been fortunate enough to add to our frontline with Carly Doyle who brings experience, energy and goals. She’ll certainly be one to watch this season for our fans. This squad has real potential and if we can avoid injuries and the availability is good we could potentially push for honours.”
Injuries have already taken their toll as forward Tiegan Rowley has been ruled out for the first couple of months of the season with ligament damage in her ankle. Dee Dixon is also out with a trapped nerve in her back. However, Jade Tynan is making progress as she plots her return from injury as is Megan Potts.
Brearley’s assistant manager Rachael Graham Martin is looking forward to the season and said: “Even though pre-season has not quite gone as we planned, we need to go into this season with confidence and positivity.
“We have a great set of girls with an abundance of quality. As the majority played with each other last season, it won’t take long to find our feet. I’m feeling very positive about this season.”
