It was wet, very wet – but the weather didn’t dampen the spirit as Hull City Ladies returned for their first taste of action this preseason, against Tier 4 side Sheffield FC

A planned delayed start to preseason games only fuelled the excitement and hunger to return to return to action, a procession of Cheshire Cats entered the North Cave training base anticipating a competitive game.

The day’s opposition, Sheffield FC, had been regular rivals for many years, both now competing in different leagues, albeit at the same tier. A familiar name and badge for Chris Hames too, facing one of his old sides.

Last week, ‘Sheff’ kicked off their preseason with an impressive 3-3 draw against higher league Huddersfield Town. Those in attendance, braces against the drizzle were unsure what to expect.

What the faithful did get, however, was a first glimpse of new signing Kirstie Hunt, who donned the Orange and Black for the first time, and Shakala Brooked who made the step up to the first team squad over the summer. Whilst eyes may have been cast higher up the pitch, #SafeHandsTans – as christened by England legend Carol Thomas – surely turned a few heads as she debutised in goal for the absent Abi Wallace.

A steady stream of chances presented themselves to the hosts throughout the game, with goals from Hope Knight, Katie Thompson, Shay Brookes and Lauren Wentworth. Ellie Tanser was denied her much deserved clean sheet however, as the Sheffield striker poked home on 70 minutes.

After the game, manager Chris Hames reflected

“Today was about seeing an attempt at the key principles we’ve worked on in training, integrating some new faces, and getting valuable minutes in the legs. And I think I can say we ticked those boxes, so it’s a good day

We had Shay [Brookes] making her first senior appearance, Lauren [Wentworth] stepping in to get good minutes as well. Kirstie [Hunt] making her first appearance and I think everyone will be very excited with what they’ve seen today, but our job is to keep working hard and make sure that today is the start and the worse we will be this season – though we have set a high first bar

We’re looking forward to working towards competitive outings over the next few weeks, as we prepare for August 20th”

The Tigresses return to action next Sunday in the clubs first ever visit to the Capital, and follow that up with a game at the Easy Buy against Premier side, Huddersfield Town.

Check out all upcoming fixtures here!