Pools Women's Team kick-off their league campaign on Sundaywhen they welcome York City to East Durham College in Peterlee (2pm kick-off).
However, boss Jonathan Gibbon-Hayes will have to ring the
changes following last week's FA Cup crushing of Carlisle United with no fewer
than nine players unavailable for selection this weekend.Five of last weekend's starting eleven won't be involved
against The Minstermen on Sunday as Gibbon-Hayes' squad is tested to the limit
in the opening North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division fixture.Three of those who are missing are taking part in this year's
Great North Run at the weekend so Pools will be without runners Caitlin Bates,
Robyn Foster and Jessica McKenna.Pools completed a Premier Division double over York last
term, running out 7-1 winners on home turf in February after triumphing 5-1 on
the road in October.However, Gibbon-Hayes won't be taking anything for grantedas much-fancied Pools seek the perfect start to their league season on Sunday.
“We're really excited to get the league underway,” headmitted.
“We have a very strong group of players which means that training
is very competitive; it's going to be a tough season ahead but I am sure the
girls will flourish as we go along.“Last week's FA Cup win at Carlisle was a positive way to startand it shows we're going to be a threat going forward but York will be a more difficult.
“The players and staff are all looking forward to playing
our first game at East Durham College and we'd love to see as many Poolies as
possible there to support the team on Sunday.”Kick-off in Peterlee on Sunday is 2pm and entry to allsupporters is free.