Newcastle United Women’s star makes ‘massive’ Sunderland claim ahead of Stadium of Light clash
Sunderland v Newcastle United Women: The Tyne-Wear derby will take place at the Stadium of Light on Sunday.
Newcastle United Women’s Lois Joel is looking ahead to a ‘massive’ Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland in the WSL 2 at the Stadium of Light on Sunday (2pm kick-off).
The Lady Magpies currently sit top of the table with Sunderland just three points behind them in second ahead into the match, which is set to be Joel’s fifth since joining the club in 2024.
She previously played for London City Lionesses and West Ham United prior to making the move to the North East.
"It's massive," Joel said, looking ahead to the match. "It's the biggest rivalry I've been a part of.
"The history is so deep between the two sides and how much our city loves Newcastle, and everyone lives and breathes football, that's what makes it so special.
"They can get a bit feisty, and a bit exciting, but that's why I love playing in them. We all know what it means to the fans, and we just can't wait to get going in the league."
Newcastle Women are eyeing promotion to the WSL as they compete in their third campaign in the second tier following promotion in 2024.
"There's been quite a bit of change each year since I've been here," Joel added. "It's usually been hard to start the season well.
"But I think with the pre-season we had this summer and the guidance from Tanya [Oxtoby] and the other coaches really helped us to gel a lot quicker.
"It's been really enjoyable to play with all of the new signings this season, and everyone has hit the ground running, and it's just a pleasure to be part of this squad."
The match has been billed as ‘El Lassico’ and comes less than a month ahead of the first Premier League Tyne-Wear derby of the season as Newcastle’s first-team host Sunderland at St James’ Park.
"As a player, you can't get too caught up in the emotion of the game, but we definitely feed off our fans during the match," Joel continued.
"We know we'll have a good travelling away support and we know how much they sacrifice to come to all of our games, and we really appreciate them.
"It's going to be an exciting game with both North East teams battling at the top, and then add in that it's a derby, I think it'll be a good game."