Brighton & Hove Albion women’s manager James Marrs insists his team have put last week's defeat to promotion rivals Portsmouth behind them as they focus on putting in an improved performance against table-topping Cardiff.
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Marrs is looking for a response from his players following the disappointing 2-1 defeat, which leaves the side four points behind the Bluebirds.
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He told seagulls.co.uk, “We had clear-the-air talks as a group and managed to re-focus ourselves, so we’ll be prepared for the weekend and looking for an improvement and a reaction following last week’s defeat.
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“We had a few issues that we spoke about and there have been some really positive training sessions. The smiles are back on the players’ faces, which is always a good.
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“It’s easy for the players to feel the pressure; they’re playing in some big games and when you’re a good side that’s fighting for the title and promotion, then they’re all tough games.
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“We may have lost a bit of perspective last Sunday with regards to what we were looking for from the game. We weren't looking at our performance, which has always been the case since I came here.
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“We’ll be going back to basics this weekend, looking for a good performance and hope that we can fashion that into a good result for us.”
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Marrs then assessed the test that fellow title contenders Cardiff will pose, after the two sides drew 1-1 in the reverse fixture back in September - Albion’s only draw of the season to date.
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“We could’ve nicked it at their place, but it was a very tight game. They were a very organised and team, hence why they’re up there at the top of the table.
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“They’re there on merit and we are under no illusions of the task ahead.* It’s a huge game and a bit of six pointer, but the main priority is the performance which can hopefully stem over to a positive result.”
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The Albion manager will also have a near full-strength squad to choose from and he delivered some positive news on Lisa Fulgence, who is recovering well following her knee operation.
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“Lisa is on the road to recovery now which is fantastic and the news has been a real lift for everybody.
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“The squad is fine and we’re all set for the remainder of the season, where we want to strive forward and continue to put in some improved performances. If we can do that, then I’ll be a happy coach from now until the end of the season.”
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This Sunday’s game takes place at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre, kick-off 2.30pm. Entry to the game is on an all-ticket basis and all tickets for the match have now been sold.[h=3]ALBION V NORWICH
[/h]FRIDAY 3RD APRIL, KICK-OFF 3PM
[h=3]ALBION V BOURNEMOUTH
[/h]FRIDAY 10TH APRIL, KICK-OFF 7.45PM
[h=3]ALBION V HUDDERSFIELD
[/h]TUESDAY 14TH APRIL, KICK-OFF 7.45PM
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