Interview: Smith praises pre-season preparations.

It has been a whirlwind first two months for the new City Women Head Coach, but Smith is pleased with how her squad has taken shape with the addition of nine new signings as well as the introduction of five Academy players into the first-team fold.

Speaking exclusively to Robins TV, Smith said: “It’s different now compared to day one, coming in with a very small squad and having to build that through to the point we’re at now. We’ve had two pre-season games, we’ve got depth and there are some really talented players in there.

“Every day has been really different, that has been exciting and I’ve loved every minute so far.

“Those Academy girls we’re talking about have done really well. They’ve stepped straight in and put a challenge in, they’re working hard and doing everything that is asked of a first-team player. That really shows what the club is about as well, moving up when you’re ready, if you’re good enough you’re old enough, and that’s what they have proved.

“The players we have brought in have added a lot of depth and different levels of experiences. Whether that’s here, in the Championship or wherever they have come from and now we have a really diverse squad. I’m really pleased with how the squad is looking right now.”

City have played two pre-season fixtures to date, both being behind-closed-doors, but this weekend sees Championship outfit Lewes FC travel to BS8 in what will be the Robins' first run out in their new state-of-the-art home.

“This will be the first real test for us as a new squad in those link ups we have started to build," said Smith. "Lewes have been there and done it for a few seasons now and they know what they’re about." She added: "We’re a fresh team and that’s going to be a challenge for us.”

Supporters can still purchase tickets for this Sunday’s (August 15th) pre-season fixture against Lewes FC at the Robins High Performance Centre (3pm KO).