Thornaby Women are gearing up for one final, massive push at Teesdale Park this Sunday as they look to seal a historic promotion to the National League North.
Following a dominant midweek performance, the team is riding a wave of incredible form into the final league game of the season against Ponteland United at 2pm.
With the North-East Women’s Regional League Premier title also still mathematically within reach, the stakes could not be higher for a squad that has relentlessly pursued greatness all year.
The team enters Sunday’s crucial fixture fresh off a spectacular 5-1 victory over Sunderland West End on Wednesday.
Thornaby fired on all cylinders, with goals from Sophie Curle, Eve Gatens, Nicki Rose Gears, Jane Harland and Sophie Tierney completing the five-star performance.
Now, they are determined to go one step further this weekend and turn their final home fixture into a promotion party.
Going into Sunday, Thornaby sit one point clear of title rivals Bradford City Women at the top of the table.
However, the title race remains out of their direct control because the Bantams hold a game in hand and will be crowned champions if they secure victories against Alnwick Town on Sunday and Harrogate Town next Wednesday.
Despite this, Thornaby remains in a phenomenally strong position.
A victory over Ponteland this Sunday gives them an excellent chance of securing promotion to the National League North as the best-placed runner-up across Tier 5.
Thornaby Women’s boss Curtis Collantine has been quick to pay tribute to the monumental effort of everyone involved at the club, highlighting the staggering 14-game winning streak that has defined their league campaign.
“We came in with a vision, to challenge to win the league, to gain promotion and to win the cup,” former Bradford player Collantine said.
“We had certain characteristics that we wanted to embed into the team, a winners’ mindset and certain values on the pitch. I am so proud of the girls, they have worked so hard, made huge progress and we have created something special.”
He also reflected on the sheer consistency required to reach this point.
He said: “To win 14 games in a row in the league and one cup game is incredible. To be the most in-form club in women’s football in Tier 5 and above is special, and with a cup final to look forward to. To be able to create history for the club is something to be proud of.
“The girls have done magnificent. Relentless every week to keep producing performances. My coaching staff are so good, they have done a brilliant job and this wouldn’t be possible without them. Thank you to them.
“To be in the last week of the league, challenging for the top spot, it’s exciting and what we have strived for.”
Even after the final whistle blows on their league campaign this Sunday, Thornaby’s season of chasing silverware will not be over.
The squad also has a County Cup Final against York City Ladies Development to look forward to on May 7.
For now, though, all focus remains entirely on Teesdale Park this Sunday at 2pm, as Thornaby Women look to secure the victory that could elevate them to the National League North – and they would love the supporters to turn out in force.
Premium partner Durata are continuing their support with sponsorship over this weekend’s game.
