Bohs and arrows

Hannah Doherty says Cliftonville Ladies are expecting to have their character tested when they lock horns with Bohemians Women at Dalymount Park this evening.

The Reds head to Dublin seeking to take firm control of Avenir Sports All-Island Cup Group C – which both they and Bohs kicked off with victories last weekend – and Doherty foresees a stern test.

“Having played against a few League of Ireland teams in pre-season, we are aware of the physicality and level of competitiveness,” she explains.

“It’s exciting getting to play against opposition that will present different challenges than what we might come across in our own League. It will also be a good test of character for us coming off the back of a heavy game week.”

Indeed, just three days have passed since Cliftonville booked progress to the Women’s Premiership League Cup semi-finals with a win over Glentoran Women which in itself came hot on the heels of their All-Island opener with Sion Swifts Ladies.

Far from complaining about the busy fixture list, Doherty – whose strike against Lisburn Ladies was recently voted May’s Goal of the Month – insists she and her team-mates are relishing the demands upon them.

“I think this week’s results have instilled a level of belief amongst the team as individuals and collectively,” she adds.

“I still think it’s early days for us and we have another gear to step up to in terms of our performance and quality. This will be something we’ll continue to work towards in the tough games we have over the next few weeks.”

On tonight’s battle with Bohemians, the former Glens defender says: “Our position in the group at the minute is very positive.

“We always look at taking it one game at a time and it seems to be something that’s worked for us to date. We’re now fully focused on this game and our mindset won’t change as we look to produce a performance and come away with a win.”