By Joan Grey
Eastern Suburbs lead the Lotto NRFL Women’s Premier League race but Auckland United and Western Springs are within striking distance.
The two challengers are ready to close an already-slim gap, and both have a game in hand over the Lilywhites.
Springs miss their chance to close that gap this weekend, due to the postponement of their game at Hamitlon Wanderers, though United can capitalise if they get a result at West Coast Rangers.
With only five rounds left in the Premier League competition, National League qualification is top of mind.
The teams in midtable can all squeeze into the four qualifying spots and every point is vital from now.
Game of the week
Hibiscus Coast and Northern Rovers engage in a bottom-of-the-table clash on Sunday.
The result may prove decisive in their battle to avoid relegation.
Both teams have struggled to earn points against the top teams, yet both have shown fighting spirit and determination.
Though Northern Rovers are yet to notch a point, they are still within reach of Hibiscus Coast, who hold a four-point advantage.
Coast’s sole victory in the league this season came from a 1-0 against Northern Rovers.
… one more thing
Sunday’s match between Hamilton Wanderers and Western Springs has been postponed, putting Springs’ three-match winning streak on hold.
Fixtures
Games to be played on Sunday June 25, 2023
Eastern Suburbs v Ellerslie
Madills Farm, St Heliers, 1pm
Northern Rovers v Hibiscus Coast
McFetridge Park, Glenfield, 1pm
West Coast Rangers v Auckland United
Huapai Domain, Kumeu, 3pm
Hamilton Wanderers v Western Springs
Porritt Stadium, Hamilton, 1pm
Joan Grey
Friends of Football writer Joan Grey loves playing and writing about football. She plays football for Franklin United.
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