The Charlton women’s team are gearing up for their toughest test of the season Sunday as they put their 100% record on the line against third-placed, local rivals Crystal Palace at Sporting Club Thamesmead.
The women’s team have won every match they have contested so far this season, including an opening day thrashing of second placed Lewes, and are currently five points clear of the Sussex side.
A 3-1 victory over Cardiff in Wales last weekend extended that run, thanks in the most part to a hat trick of free kicks from Charlotte Gurr.
Whilst it was hardly a vintage performance – a better team may have netted more than a consolation goal – it was a hard-fought one in tricky conditions. “Cardiff away is always a tricky place to go to,” said Gurr. “{It wasn’t] the best performance, but it's good to know that even when we are not at our best we can still grind out a result.”
On her treble of strikes, she continued: “I've never scored a hat trick of free kicks before so that's a first! I think all three of them were a little bit different as well, so I'm buzzing with that.”
Onto this Sunday and Palace have had their best start to a season so far, winning four from six and banging in the goals – they are second-top scorers after Charlton. The main threat up front is former Addick Gemma Bryan, who has scored no fewer than 13 of their 22 league goals.
With plenty of former Charlton players in behind – seven of their starting 11 that beat Portsmouth used to play in red and white – there will be no lack of motivation from the visitors.
Gurr acknowledges that it will be a tough match, but is confident her side can keep their run going. “Obviously they have had a good start to the season as well so it's bound to be a tough game,” the midfielder, who has been named Player of the Match in three of the last four games, added.
“However, as long as we carry on doing what we have been doing, taking on the points we have been given at training and working hard, hopefully we will be able to produce a good performance and get the result we want.”
But that’s only the start of what will be a big week for Charlton, as they then host West Ham United, a team they’ve already beaten 6-0 this season, at The Valley on Wednesday 11 October. And that’s something Gurr and her team mates will also be looking for.
“A game under the lights is always nice and with it being a derby and at The Valley it's very much something we are all excited and looking forward to.
“Hopefully we can get as much support there as possible to cheer us on.”
Fans can watch a pre-match interview with women's team captain Kim Dixson here on Valley Pass.
Charlton play Crystal Palace at Sporting Club Thamesmead, Bayliss Avenue (SE28 8NJ) on Sunday 8 October at 2pm, with tickets free for Charlton Athletic season ticket holders.
Supporters can also buy tickets here for the West Ham match taking place next Wednesday at The Valley.