The pre-season schedule continues for United Women, with another busy week ahead as they prepare for life in the FA Women’s National League. This week sees Ryan Perks’ side play three matches as they continue building fitness and adapting to the demands of a campaign that will feature league and cup fixtures across both Sundays and midweek.
First up is the short trip to local rivals Exeter City Women. The Grecians come into the fixture on the back of a strong start to their pre-season campaign, having beaten Keynsham Town – a side United will also face in the league this season.
Unlike United, who have retained the core of last season’s title-winning squad, Exeter have undergone a significant rebuild this summer, bringing in a host of new faces. Several members of the United squad previously played under Exeter’s current coaching staff, so they will know exactly the challenge that awaits them at Exeter City’s Cliff Hill Training Ground.
United head into the game full of confidence after another encouraging performance last Sunday, when a late Sarah Stacey goal earned a deserved 1-1 draw against a talented and technically gifted Birmingham City Under-21 side. Despite facing a very different style of opponent to QPR in their opening pre-season fixture, United were never outplayed and produced another disciplined, organised team performance.
With three matches scheduled this week, manager Ryan Perks will have plenty of opportunities to give valuable minutes to a confident squad while continuing to fine-tune his plans ahead of the new season.
As always, TUFC Radio will be in Exeter to bring supporters full live coverage, allowing those unable to make the short journey to keep up with all the action as United’s pre-season preparations continue.
Supporters travelling to the match are reminded that the fixture will take place at Exeter City’s Cliff Hill Training Ground, with kick-off at 7:30pm. Admission is £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.
