As the sport continues to progress with increased media coverage, record-breaking attendances and fervent interest, the FA have launched the Women’s Football Weekend initiative to encourage football fans to attend a women’s game at any level of the pyramid on Saturday 16 or Sunday 17 November.
READ: Campbell eyes Academy Stadium sell-out
TICKETS: City v West Ham Women
City play host to West Ham United in a 12:30pm kick-off at the Academy Stadium on the Sunday, targeting another historic crowd attendance, having smashed the FA Women’s Super League record with 31,000 watching the first professional Manchester Derby at the Etihad Stadium back in September.
Weir, who netted another Goal of the Season contender with a 35-yard piledriver in Sunday’s Continental Cup win over Birmingham, is pleased such events are being introduced to further progress women’s football and hopes the City fans will show their loyal support once again, as the team hope to entertain a sell-out crowd.
“It’s huge for the game,” she declared. “Weekends like this encourage people to come out and watch – it’s what the game needs.
“There’s a lot of momentum at the moment in the women’s game so it’s about carrying that on.
“Initiatives like that help to do that. Hopefully, we’ll see that in the crowds that come out to watch the WSL.”
With manager Nick Cushing (amongst others) of the opinion this season’s league campaign will be the most competitive yet, few can predict how the season will pan out with several clubs impressing in the opening months.
West Ham are one of those who have enjoyed a solid start, and with City looking to kickstart our season following a difficult patch of results, Weir asserts her side are keen to celebrate the memorable weekend with a top performance.
“It’s a huge league game for us,” she added. “We’re disappointed with recent results and not happy with our performances.
“West Ham have a good team. We’ve seen that so far in the league. It’s going to be the most competitive year – teams are improving and the quality of the league is growing.
“Every game is tough and we know we have to be at our best to get results from everyone.
“We’ve looked at things we need to improve on and we’ll go into the game with confidence – even more determined to get three points.
“It will be a good test and we feel we have the squad to compete in these games week in, week out and get positive results.
“We’re determined to put on a good performance and get a win.”
City are back in FA Women’s Super League action against West Ham on November 17th. Kick-off at the Academy Stadium is 12.30pm and tickets are available.
