Crystal Palace Women head to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday with Jo Potter stressing the importance of producing a strong result in a fixture that carries additional significance for both sets of supporters.
Palace have made a decent start to their away form, but Potter said the team must approach every match with the same aim of winning at home and proving difficult to beat on the road. She also highlighted the need for consistency in the team’s preparation and performance levels.
The Brighton fixture arrives during an intense spell for Palace, who are scheduled to play nine matches across five weeks. Potter acknowledged the physical demands of such a congested period, particularly given Palace do not have the same squad depth as the leading clubs, while also pointing to the benefits of building match fitness and finding rhythm early in the campaign.
Brighton sit ninth under new head coach Arturo Ruiz. Potter believes the hosts have become more organised without the ball, adding greater defensive structure to a side that had previously been known for its possession-based and fluid approach. She expects Brighton’s attacking rotations to remain part of their game, but said their out-of-possession work is now more disciplined.
Potter also made clear that the rivalry must be treated with respect. She identified the desire to avoid defeat against a local rival as an added incentive for Palace and believes the players must match the importance the fixture holds for the fans.
Palace will have another derby to prepare for next weekend when South London rivals Charlton Athletic visit, with kick-off scheduled for 14:00 GMT on Sunday, 8 November. Tickets for that match are on sale.
