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It’s back to Princes Park once again for the Lionesses, as they prepare for their opening clash of the Continental Cup, against West Ham United.
West Ham United
It’s been an up and down start to the WSL season for West Ham, as they’ve looked to try and build some early season momentum.
The campaign started with three points, with Paul Konchesky's side picking up a 1-0 win at home to Everton, courtesy of a Lisa Evans goal.
Yet the West London side came up against a tougher test next weekend, when they hosted Manchester United.
The defensive solidity of the Hammers backline was enough to keep United out until half time, but the second half was a different story, with Lucia Garcia and Hannah Blundell getting the goals.
Wednesday night was perhaps the biggest test for West Ham, as they faced league champions Chelsea.
And whilst the Hammers looked set to cause an upset against Emma Hayes side, the west London outfit came back to win 3-1 at home.
It was always going to be an interesting start to the season, with new manager Konchesky taking the managerial reins for the first time.
Yet Konchesky wasn’t the only new face through the door, with France international Viviane Asseyi, and Japanese international’s Honoka Hayashi and Risa Shimizu the most notable new arrivals.
Time will only tell what kind of season awaits, but without question, the Lionesses will be in for a tough test come Sunday afternoon.
London City Lionesses
It was back to winning ways last weekend for the Lionesses, as the team picked up their first win over Durham.
The game saw Amy Rodgers grab her second for the season, Lucy Fitzgerald get her first and Sarah Ewens pick up her first goal for the Lionesses.
It was another real test for the Lionesses, with Durham bringing with them their trademark physicality.
“We know just what to expect from Durham,” said Carly Girasoli, “they’re really physical and they make things hard for you.
“But the important thing for us was that we were able to play our game, and just like with the game against Lewes, we gave up very few chances, and were able to keep control of the match.”
This week however will be a very different challenge for LCL, with the Continental Cup once again pitting the team against WSL opposition, indeed the very same opposition that they faced last season.
“Having played them only last season we have an idea of what they’re like,” said Girasoli, “they’re really solid both on and off the ball.
“But just like with Durham, as long as we stick to our game plan and bring that same spirit into the game, I’m confident we can come away with a result.”
Yet whilst the Hammers will be a real threat going forward, they’ll have to get past a City backline that have come away with two clean sheets on the bounce.
“Going into each game we’re always aiming to come away with a clean sheet as a backline, so it’s great to come away with that, but the most important thing is the three points,” said Girasoli.
Head Coach, Melissa Phillips
“As was the case last season, we look forward to testing ourselves against WSL opponents to measure our own progress and growth as a team.
“West Ham have had a solid start to the WSL team and know they will present a physical challenge for us as they have been very resolute behind the ball in their opening matches.
“We have loads of positives to draw from our recent performance in possession and will have to continue our focus on movement off the ball.”
Remember City fans there are still tickets available for the game on Sunday- Click to get yours now!
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