Middlesbrough FC Women take on Norton & Stockton Ancients Ladies in matchday one of the FA Women's National League Divison One North.
What competition? - FA Women’s National League Division One North
When is it? - Sunday 20 August, 3pm
Where is it? - MAP Group UK Stadium, Stockton-on-Tees, TS19 0QD
How much? - £5 Adults, Kids Free! (Card Only)
Can we follow along? - Follow @BoroWomen on Twitter for live updates throughout the game.
Middlesbrough FC Women begin a new era on Sunday afternoon in a local derby against Norton & Stockton Ancients.
It’s a game of many firsts for Boro. The first league game for the Boro under the MFC umbrella, the first league game with Michael Mulhern as head coach, and the first league game in Middlesbrough colours for the 12 new summer additions.
Our dedicated printed programme, #UTBW, will be available to purchase upon entry into the ground.
The Opposition
Norton & Stockton are coming off the back of a record season as a club, finishing seventh place with a record points total for the fellow Teesside based club, winning four games out of their last five in the league to end last season in the process.
The Ancients' boast a strong squad, with talent all over the pitch, and have brought in four new faces over the summer in order to push on from last season's impressive finish.
Chris Burton's took part in eight pre-season games, which included a standout 6-1 victory over South Shields.
Fun Fact
Only 2.2 miles separate the two sides’ home grounds, making it the closest derby in the league.
Previous Encounters
Last season, the two sides faced off in the league, which was the first competitive encounter since 2015.
Both sides emerged victorious in their home games with a score of 3-1.
Pre-Match Quotes
Boro head coach Michael Mulhern has spoken ahead of the game by saying:
“The first game is almost here. It’s been a long and very busy pre-season as it’s basically been a squad rebuild.”
“We have to be patient and trust the process which will allow the group to gel. Hopefully we start well and we will work to improve game by game. That’s certainly how it’s been in the two recent pre-season games.”
“Now I just can’t wait to finally get started!”