Linfield aiming for title No 4 as Women's Premiership kicks off

Seven teams to compete in this year's league

Women's launch
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 17th Apr 2019
Last updated 17th Apr 2019

The Danske Bank Women’s Premiership season kicks off tonight (Wednesday)

Linfield begin the defence of their title at home to Sion Swifts.

The Blues have topped the table for the last three years and midfielder, Louise McFrederick, says there is huge expectation on the players to win a fourth title.

“Whenever you put on that blue jersey, there’s always going to be pressure,” she told Downtown & Cool FM.

“The last few seasons we have risen to it and we have to keep doing this.”

Seven teams including new additions Comber Rec will compete this year.

They have a tough opener away to Glentoran while Crusaders Strikers – under new boss Spike Hill – entertain Derry City.

Crues skipper, Julie Nelson, says they are determined to build on the promise of last year.

“We are going through a bit of a transitional period at the moment – we have got a few older players and a few younger players coming into the squad.

“But we don’t really have anybody bridging that gap in the middle.

“We are just aiming to improve what we did last year. We are not going to set any big targets.”

Chairperson of the Women’s Premiership Committee Sue O’Neill said:

“We are extremely excited about the 2019 season, and are delighted to welcome Comber Rec Ladies to the Premiership. The partnership between NI Football League and Danske Bank continues to allow us to shine a light on the best of women’s football in Northern Ireland, through the Danske Bank Women’s Premiership. As our league continues to grow, we have a huge opportunity to raise the profile of women’s football, and with Danske Bank’s support, we’re looking forward to a really exciting season of football.”

All of the games kick-off at 8 o’clock.