There’s action aplenty in round seven of the Tamworth Women’s division this weekend, including a top-of-the-table clash between North Companions Black and Tamworth FC at Marius Street.
Norths are expected to line-up as per program across both sides, with coach Pat Warren noting the need for a strong performance in defence.
“Going into this weekend’s game is the same as the last couple, both teams need to hold the ball. If we do the simple things right, the rest will follow,” Warren said.
“The games will be won with good defence and respect for the ball in attack.”
With both sides in the top-four, 2021 has so far delivered a fruitful season for coach Warren.
“The squad is going well with a couple of tight game behind both teams and three months of good solid training,” he said.
Kick-off at Marius Street is set down for 1pm, with the club’s White side to play Quirindi Blue at 3pm.
At Gipps Street, Kootingal White will be out to upset the third placed Oxley Vale Attunga. OVA coach Steve Doherty will use the match to trial something different, though was quick to note the need for simple execution.
“We are working on a different formation but still want to do the basics well,” he said.
At the other end, injuries could prove the greatest challenge for coach Cassi Cutmore.
“For the Whites, we have a couple out due to injury, but we could see a number of players returning for their first game back from serious injuries,” she said.
“They have two of the hardest games they will play ahead of them, they have come so far, so a good performance will be around their focus and mental fortitude.”
“We will need to remain steadfast and dig deep. The girls are Warriors prepared for battle regardless of the outcome.”
The focus for Cutmore is far from just on the field, with the mentor leading a culture of ‘team first’.
“The relationships in the side continue to build as we have welcomed some new players to both teams. Both teams have strong skill sets and are always working hard to improve,” she said.
“The approach is the traditional Kootingal way. Heads up, stay strong, walk on together and walk off together.”
It will be an even tougher task for Kootingal Purple, with four players set to miss the match due to conflicting commitments. They play Quirindi White at Gipps Street.
“These players hold crucial positions on the field, so to have all four out at once will be interesting and a new dynamic for this team to face,” Cutmore said.
Headlined by the side’s leading goal scorer, Kim Kenny, the team will also be without Chloe Goodwin.
“Without the duo, we are going to see a whole different game.”
“A good performance will be to hold out Quirindi to hopefully build ourselves up on the ladder enough to be in the top pool of the split in the ladder ahead.”
South United has the bye.
