AFC Fylde Women are preparing for another tough test on Sunday with the visit of newly promoted Newcastle United Women to Kellamergh Park.

This FAWNL Northern Premier Division fixture against the Magpies takes place on Sunday, 3 September, with kick-off at 2.00 pm.

Jack Garside’s Fylde team kicked off the new season a fortnight ago with a 4-2 loss away to Huddersfield Town Women.

Despite coming away from West Yorkshire empty-handed, the Coasters could still take a lot of positives from their opening-day performance against the Terriers.

Last weekend, Fylde made a dramatic late comeback to defeat Chorley Women 2-1 in the FAWNL Cup Determining Round. After falling behind midway through the second half, the Coasters showed their fighting spirit and togetherness to score two quick-fire goals in the closing stages of the tie.

With time running out, Cath Hamill first grabbed the equaliser before Beth Strutton slotted home the winner to spark jubilant scenes at the full-time whistle.

The victory not only booked Fylde’s passage into the next round of the competition but also served as a welcome confidence boost ahead of their next assignment against Newcastle United Women.

Becky Langley’s Newcastle side have not yet played a league game following the postponement of their opening fixture with Halifax Women.

This Sunday’s encounter will represent Newcastle’s maiden appearance in the Northern Premier Division after the Magpies secured promotion last season to reach the third tier for the first time in their history.

Having said that, Newcastle were in action last weekend when they faced Burnley Women at Kingston Park in the FAWNL Cup. The match was eventually settled deep into extra-time as the Magpies sealed a 3-2 victory thanks to a brace from Bridget Galloway and a last-gasp winner from Becky Ferguson.

On Sunday, the Coasters will be looking to build their own momentum as they search for their first league win of the season.

Words by Scott Jones