North East bragging rights are on the line on the very first day of the Barclays Women’s Championship season when Durham face Sunderland in the A690 derby at Maiden Castle.
Last season saw Durham get the better of the Wearsiders in both league meetings, however, Sunderland will be more streetwise in their second year back in the Barclays Women’s Championship and Melanie Reay’s side will be seeking revenge.
Durham boss Lee Sanders could hand debuts to up to five new signings against The Lady Black Cats including former Sunderland midfielder Maria Farrugia. The Wildcats’ biggest challenge in recent seasons has been filling the number nine position with real quality and it will be interesting to see who will start the season leading the front-line.
Like Durham boss Sanders, Sunderland manager Reay has also signed players from the other end of the A690 this summer with Abby Holmes, Nicki Gears and Danielle Brown swapping County Durham for Wearside. The trio could start against their former club this afternoon. Sunderland could also hand debuts to Tyler Dodds and Brianna Westrup.
The Barclays Women’s Championship fixture between Durham and Sunderland kicks-off at 12.30pm. The game is a complete sell-out therefore fans should not turn up without tickets.