After reaching the summit of the ERWFL Premier Division on Wednesday night, courtesy of a 4-0 victory over St Albans, the Hatters will look to extend their lead at the top of the table and make it 17 successive league victories in a tough task against Stevenage this Sunday.
The opposition
On paper, this should be a tough test for the Hatters. Stevenage have been one of the top teams in the division this campaign, currently positioned third in the table.
The Boro have impressed in cup competitions too, reaching the Hertfordshire County Cup Final, which they was edged out 4-3 by Royston Town and on 11th May, they will take on Luton Town in the final of the League Cup at Bedford Town.
Before the County Cup Final defeat in March, Stevenage went on an incredible 20-game run where they only suffered defeat once, which was a 15-14 penalty shootout loss to the Hatters, in the second round of the Women’s FA Cup.
The game will be played at Ware Football Club, away from Stevenage’s usual home ground, the Hertfordshire FA County Ground, where they have only lost once in nine games this league campaign.
David Perry’s side have the second best defensive record in the league, conceding only 17 goals all season, only Luton have a better record, with 11 conceded.
Last time out
The last meeting between the two sides produced a Women’s FA Cup classic. Stevenage took the lead five minutes in, before an Amber Leighton thunderbolt from 20-yards out levelled the scoring.
From that point, the two sides cancelled each other out and the tie went to a penalty shootout.
At 10-10 in the shootout, Tanya Blacksley saw her effort saved and put Stevenage on the brink, but Sarah Hudson came to the Town’s rescue, keeping the shootout at 10 apiece.
Shianne Swarres’ second penalty of the afternoon was slotted away and gave the Hatters a 15-14 lead, with the hosts to take. Hudson got down low and Luton progressed to the third round of the Women’s FA Cup after an astonishing 32 penalties taken.
Back the Town
This Sunday’s first versus third clash will take place at Ware Football Club, Wodson Park, Wadesmill Road, Ware, SG12 0UQ due to pitch unavailability at the Hertfordshire County Ground.
The kick-off in Ware is at 2pm. The girls need your support as they look to take one step closer to sealing promotion.
COYH!
Words: Owen Williams
Picture: Duncan Jack Photo
For more info on Luton Town Ladies visit www.lutontownladiesfc.co.uk
