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London City Lionesses .vs. Charlton Athletic (Barclays Women’s Championship)
Princes Park on Sunday 2 April at 14:00, with highlights available via the FA Player
London City Lionesses understand their situation after defeat in Durham – they must produce an improved result and performance versus Charlton Athletic to keep their title hopes alive.
“It was a massive disappointment [to lose 3-0 to Durham] and everyone knows that a response is required this weekend,” interim head coach Nikita Runnacles told reporters on Thursday. “We know the position we’re in and appreciate that the next four games are important in terms of keeping the pressure on Bristol City.”
But it won’t be easy.
Charlton Athletic are unbeaten in six matches and climbed to third in the Barclays Women’s Championship with a win over Lewes on Wednesday.
“They’ve been picking up points and they’re not an easy team to turn over,” added Runnacles when asked about the Addicks. “They have something about them that enables them to get points from really difficult games. We’re aware of that and understand the challenge that is ahead of us.
“We need to focus on responding in the right way, which is the most important thing for players and staff at this Club. If we do that, we have the next three games to look forward to as we run into the end of the season.”
And there is plenty to be excited about at Princes Park, with top scorer Sarah Ewens selected by Scotland for the first time and Grace Neville retaining her place in the New Zealand squad.
“We’re absolutely delighted for Sarah,” said Runnacles. “It hasn’t been an easy journey for her – she’s found some really tough challenges throughout her career. She joined us in the summer and has really helped us to kick on with her work rate, creativity, and goals.”
Ewens will play a crucial role in attack for London City versus Charlton Athletic, click here to secure your seats to watch the 30-year-old play in a crunch clash at Princes Park.
Form Guide:
London City Lionesses | Record: 11-3-4 | Position: 2nd
Durham 3-0 London City
London City 2-0 Bristol City
London City 3-1 Lewes F.C.
London City 1-2 Sheffield United
Birmingham City 0-1 London City
Charlton Athletic | 10-4-4 | Position: 3rd
Charlton Athletic 1-0 Lewes F.C.
Charlton Athletic 2-2 Sunderland A.F.C.
Blackburn Rovers 1-1 Charlton Athletic
Coventry United 1-4 Charlton Athletic
Birmingham City 2-2 Charlton Athletic
Statistical Leaders:
London City Lionesses
Goals: Sarah Ewens (ten)
Assists: Shanade Hopcroft (eight)
Charlton Athletic
Goals: Melissa Johnson (ten)
Assists: Freda Ayisi & Bethan Roe (three)
London City Injuries/Suspensions:
Charlotte Fleming (lower-body)
Lily Agg (two-match suspension)