Argyle Women’s exciting start to the campaign takes in another significant challenge on Wednesday night, as the Pilgrims face their first Devon Derby of the season.
Argyle take on Exeter at St James’ Park looking to continue their form that has seen the Greens lose just once in competitive action all season.
With 14 points from seven games, Argyle are fourth in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, whilst Exeter sit just two places above the relegation zone, winning only two of their games so far.
Marie Hourihan, coaching her first Devon Derby, knows the importance of the tie to all involved, but wants her side to focus on the game at hand, rather than the overall occasion.
“I’m really excited,” Hourihan explained. “It's a big occasion. I had the privilege of attending the men's derby last week and experiencing the atmosphere first hand, as well as understanding the significance it holds for the Green Army and fans in general. It’s a really special occasion and I’m privileged to be a part of it.
“At the end of the day, however, it's still a game of football. It's 11 v 11. The emotions are going to be running high, but it's about how you control them and isolate that into executing a game plan, rather than getting too carried away. I think we've got enough experienced players in the squad who have been part of these games before, who can share those experiences with the new players.
“For me, it's another league game and an opportunity to try and get points on the board. With it being our closest away game as well, it’s ideal for us for preparation. It allows us to keep our usual training routine, which is really important. All focus is on the game and making sure that we prepare right, leading into tomorrow.”
Despite being ahead in league position, Hourihan is aware of the threats Exeter possess and, with it being a bigger occasion than normal, wants the nerves to be used in a good way and translated into points at the end of the evening.
She said: “I think Exeter are a good side. They play with real intent, have some real threats on the top line, and had a very successful season last year. We fully expect a difficult game and a tough challenge. With it being at St James Park as well, I expect the atmosphere to be good.
“I'm sure there'll be a big crowd because of the occasion, but any game like that, we're going to go in, enjoy it, and perfect our game plan. The priority is to try and come away with points, if we can.”
