Dan O’Hearne has given his thoughts ahead what he expects will be a tricky encounter for his side this weekend, at the Global Stadium.

The top-of-the-table Whites are hosting Durham Cestria LFC, as they aim to firmly establish themselves as front-runners in the FA Women’s National League Division One North.

Speaking ahead of the match, O’Hearne has praised Sunday’s opposition on their style of play and warned his side that they will need to be at their best. 

He said: “Durham are a very good footballing team and very attractive to watch. 

“They play through the thirds and they are dangerous, we will have to be aware of what they can do.

“They’re mid table at the moment which is a bit of a surprise. They haven’t had the best start, but they do have games in hand and we know things can change quickly.

“After seeing that they got beaten four-nil at Newcastle in their last game, they will definitely be coming to us looking for a response.

“I have no doubt they will be tough opposition and you can see from the games so far that they can get results away from home, so we have got to be on top of our game to beat them.”

One regular name on the team sheet will be missing this weekend, but a longer break than usual may benefit O’Hearne and his side. 

“Bassy [Rebekah Bass] is not available for Sunday, with a leg injury,” the manager explained. 

“She’s seen the physio’s and we will now wait to see how long she will be out for. 

"We’ve got a two-week break after the Durham match this weekend so that will give us time to see how everyone in the squad is doing."