Nicholl expecting ‘tough test’

COLERAINE Ladies boss Alison Nicholl knows the challenges that present her side as they face Foyle Belles this evening…

The Bannsiders will have home advantage as they host the visitors at the University (KO 7:30pm).

Foyle Belles have won two of their opening three games, including last week’s impressive 3-0 success against Ballymacash Ladies.

Therefore, it will come as no surprise that Nicholl is fully aware that the visitors will arrive at the University full of confidence.

“We know it’s going to be a tough game,” she said.

“We have played them before previously and they are a team with a blend of youth and experience.

“They have been together for a number of years and got promotion.

“They have only lost one game so far this season and that was against Larne but they have had several high scoring wins.

“We do know it’s going to be very tough as they beat Portadown by eight goals and had a good win against Ballymacash.”

Nicholl acknowledged that she has worked on certain tactical drills in training and is pleased to have the services of Olivia Doherty for the second-half at least.

“We have most players available for the game,” she added.

“Olivia Doherty will be ready for the second-half as she has to work late.

“We look forward to rising to the challenge and the win against Armagh should increase our confidence.

“We have been working on one or two bits and pieces from video footage taken from games, so we are as well prepared as we can be.

“We are under no illusions about the task at hand but it will provide us with a test in terms of our mental resilience and toughness.”