The exciting clash between Sunderland AFC Women and Newcastle United WFC has garnered significant attention from fans and football analysts alike. Women’s football has continued to grow in popularity and competitiveness, and this fixture was no exception. The two clubs, both with a rich history in women’s football, met in a highly anticipated match that saw plenty of action on and off the field. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the lineups, key players, tactical insights, and everything fans need to know about this exciting encounter.
Overview of the Match
Sunderland AFC Women and Newcastle United WFC have been competing in the FA Women’s Championship, which is the second-tier league in England’s women’s football pyramid. These two teams have had their share of ups and downs, but their rivalry has always been intense. The match, which took place at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, was a thrilling affair for the fans of both clubs. The fixture offered a great opportunity for both teams to make a statement in the league standings, and the lineups for the match were eagerly anticipated.
Date and Venue
The Sunderland AFC Women vs. Newcastle United WFC match took place on October 13, 2024, at Stadium of Light, Sunderland. The match kicked off at 2:00 PM BST. As both clubs are passionate about women’s football, the atmosphere in the stadium was electric, and fans from both sides filled the stands, eager to see their teams in action.
The Lineups
Both Sunderland AFC Women and Newcastle United WFC put out strong lineups, with key players expected to make an impact. The managers of both teams, who are highly respected in the women’s football scene, fielded their best possible teams for this high-stakes matchup. Below is an analysis of the starting lineups for both teams.
Sunderland AFC Women’s Lineup
The team, managed by Melanie Hill, had a solid and balanced lineup for the match. With an emphasis on defensive solidity and quick attacking transitions, Sunderland looked to control possession and create chances. Here is a look at the starting players:
Goalkeeper: Demi Lambourne Lambourne has been crucial in Sunderland’s defense, offering both experience and agility in goal. She’s known for her shot-stopping abilities and her leadership at the back.
Defenders: Jessie Brown, Amy Goddard, Jessie Stapleton, Grace Ede Sunderland’s defense was compact, with Brown and Stapleton holding the center and Goddard and Ede providing width. The fullbacks were expected to overlap in attack while staying mindful of their defensive duties.
Midfielders: Natasha Fenton (captain), Emily Scarr, Jenna Dear Captain Natasha Fenton brought leadership and energy to the midfield, while Scarr’s creativity and Dear’s work rate were key in transitioning the ball from defense to attack.
Forwards: Katie Kitching, Eleanor Dale, Mary McAteer Sunderland’s attacking trio had pace and technical ability. Kitching’s ability to drift inside and link up play with Dale, who had the eye for goal, made Sunderland a constant threat going forward. McAteer’s flair and speed on the wing kept Newcastle’s defense on their toes.
Newcastle United WFC’s Lineup
Managed by Becky Langley, Newcastle United WFC is a club that has a strong presence in the FA Women’s Championship. Their lineup for the match against Sunderland was designed to be dynamic, with an emphasis on pace and direct attacking football. Here’s a breakdown of their starting lineup:
Goalkeeper: Claudia Moan Moan is known for her exceptional reflexes and is a key figure in Newcastle’s defense. Her shot-stopping abilities, especially in one-on-one situations, make her a formidable presence in goal.
Defenders: Olivia Watt, Charlotte Potts, Rachel Furness, Demi Stokes Watt and Potts played in central defense, with Stokes providing experience and leadership on the left. The right-back position was held by Furness, who was tasked with supporting both the defense and attack.
Midfielders: Jasmine McQuade, Elysia Boddy The midfield duo of McQuade and Boddy was responsible for controlling possession and dictating the tempo. McQuade’s creativity and vision combined with Boddy’s solid defensive skills allowed Newcastle to dominate in the middle of the park.
Forwards: Amber-Keegan Stobbs (captain), Beth Lumsden, Isabella Sibley, Shania Hayles Stobbs, as the captain, led by example, contributing both defensively and offensively. Lumsden was the star player, with the ability to score goals and create assists, while Sibley and Hayles offered width and pace, stretching the Sunderland defense.
Key Players to Watch
Both Sunderland AFC Women and Newcastle United WFC fielded several talented players. While the match saw contributions from the entire team, there were a few standout performers who influenced the result.
Beth Lumsden (Newcastle United WFC)
Lumsden was undoubtedly one of the standout players of the match. Scoring both of Newcastle’s goals in the match, Lumsden’s ability to read the game and finish under pressure made her the key player for her team. Her first goal came in the 28th minute, and she doubled the lead shortly after the break in the 49th minute.
Emily Scarr (Sunderland AFC Women)
Sunderland’s Emily Scarr was another player to keep an eye on. Scarr’s creativity in midfield allowed Sunderland to create opportunities, and she played a major role in their attacking moves. Scarr scored Sunderland’s only goal of the match in the 78th minute, but it wasn’t enough to secure a comeback.
Demi Stokes (Newcastle United WFC)
Stokes was instrumental in both defense and attack. The left-back was constantly on the move, supporting the midfield and providing a solid foundation at the back. Her tactical awareness allowed Newcastle to defend their lead efficiently while also contributing to offensive transitions.
The Tactical Battle
The match between Sunderland AFC Women and Newcastle United WFC was as much about tactics as it was about individual brilliance. Both managers had their respective game plans, with Sunderland focusing on possession and controlling the midfield, while Newcastle utilized their pace and direct attacking play.
Sunderland’s midfield was designed to dominate possession, with Fenton and Scarr orchestrating play and making forward runs. The fullbacks, Goddard and Ede, were tasked with providing width and offering support to the attack, while Dale and Kitching’s movement in the final third looked to break down Newcastle’s defense.
On the other hand, Newcastle’s tactical approach relied heavily on quick counter-attacks and exploiting Sunderland’s defensive vulnerabilities. With players like Lumsden and Hayles running in behind the defense, Newcastle set up a number of dangerous situations. Stokes’ overlapping runs on the left provided additional options, and McQuade’s ability to pick out passes was key in linking up with the forward line.
FAQs
When did Sunderland AFC Women play against Newcastle United WFC?
The match took place on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM BST, at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland.
What was the final score of the match?
Newcastle United WFC won the game 2-1 against Sunderland AFC Women. Beth Lumsden scored both goals for Newcastle in the 28th and 49th minutes, while Sunderland’s sole goal was an own goal by Newcastle’s Olivia Watt in the 78th minute.
What was the reaction from the fans and media?
The match was highly anticipated, with over 15,000 fans in attendance. The local rivalry added intensity to the game. Media outlets highlighted Newcastle’s clinical finishing and Sunderland’s missed opportunities
In Summary
The Wear-Tyne derby between Sunderland AFC Women and Newcastle United WFC on October 13, 2024, was a closely contested match. Newcastle United WFC emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, thanks to Beth Lumsden’s two goals. Sunderland AFC Women showed resilience but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. The match was well-attended, with over 15,000 fans witnessing the action at the Stadium of Light. This result had implications for the league standings, with Newcastle United WFC climbing to sixth place.
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