Mor challenges in store

Megan Moran has urged Cliftonville Ladies to hit the ground running this season.

The Reds begin their Danske Bank Women’s Premiership campaign with a trip to Sion Swifts this evening and, while she is encouraged that the reformatting of the top flight will make for some “exciting” twists, captain Moran also believes it leaves less margin for error.

“The new teams coming in will definitely make the season more competitive as it’s been the same teams for a few years now,” she reflects of the additions of Mid-Ulster Ladies and Lisburn Ladies.

“It’ll be good to get the opportunity to play these teams and see how teams react to those games.

“I think the new format will make the season more exciting because everyone will know that they need to perform from the very start of the season, nothing can be left last minute.”

Having pushed eventual Champions Glentoran Women all the way last term, Moran is well aware that Cliftonville will be a scalp for plenty of opponents but insists the Reds are capable of dealing with that additional pressure.

“I think there will be more expectation on us as a competitive squad in the League,” she adds.

“Last season, we were able to demonstrate the level of determination we have as a team to play to a high standard, so I think everyone this year will know that playing Cliftonville is going to be a tough game.”