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The Two Teams
Following an eventful international break for the Lionesses, London City is back in action as it takes a trip to Butts Park Arena to take on Coventry United Football Club.
The Lionesses head into this match sitting in fifth in the league table, having gone unbeaten in their last three contests in the Championship.
Coventry United, on the other hand, are looking to turn around their league season, with the side sitting at the bottom of the table.
But a 2-0 result at home against Southampton to kick off their Conti Cup campaign could be the catalyst to positive results in league play over the next month.
Coventry rebounded after two scoreless outings to net two goals in back-to-back contests.
Last time out in the league, the Aston Villa loanee Mary McAteer netted the club’s first goal of the league season, gilding into the near post, and finishing off a cross from Alanah Mann.
After going 3-0 down on the road against Birmingham City, Coventry was able to fight back, and bring the Blues' advantage to just one.
The club is seeking to surpass its best league finish, having shaved off relegation in 10th place for three consecutive seasons.
London City has won two out of the last four fixtures between these two sides, including a thrilling 1-0 victory in January 2022.
The Lionesses kicked off their Conti Cup campaign with a back-and-forth affair against West Ham United, which ended in London City capturing a point.
Amy Rodgers and Sarah Ewens led the Lionesses in the scoring charts with two apiece while Grace Neville’s two-assist outing against the Irons gives her the team lead in that department.
Ewens is looking to extend her goal streak to three straight games, as London City seeks to score three or more goals in three out of its first five matches in the 2022/23 league campaign.
Both clubs are eyeing to add to the momentum that was gained prior to the break in the action and begin a critical league run of games on the right note.
Lois Heuchan
Speaking on her last goal against West Ham in the Conti Cup, she said:
“It was definitely a nice feeling,” said Heuchan, “everyone likes to score goals, but it just felt good to get off the mark and to contribute to the team.
“To compete as we did, against a WSL side, shows the strength we have in this team, and it’ll certainly give us confidence going forward.”
Having joined the club during the summer transfer window, she spoke on what life has been like at London City so far, stating:
“I think my Scottish accent has certainly got a lot stronger again here," said Heuchan, “as I've found myself back with so many old friends from Scotland.
"I've been at lots of clubs, and each experience has prepared me in many different ways. Now I'm just loving how competitive a side we are, and the new challenge that London City possesses.”
Heuchan spoke on the path ahead, and a tough road challenge against Coventry this weekend.
“I’m looking forward to a run of games without having too much of a break.
“We know the importance of just taking it each game at a time. Coventry are fresh off a win themselves so we have to be at our best, and prepare ourselves for potential obstacles.”
Head Coach, Melissa Phillips
“We will be looking to build upon momentum created from our recent performances and those who bring experiences back to us through the successes with Ireland. We certainly won't be underestimating Coventry.”
“They are coming off their of their first win on the season and an international window with plenty of time to prepare for the match.”
“They've had a number of games with a 1 goal difference which is a testament to their grittiness. We know a resilient performance will be called for on the road and we are looking forward to the tests coming in the stretch of games ahead.”
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