New Liverpool boss Matt Beard excited for his first game in charge against Lincoln.
Liverpool v Lincoln
The FA WSL
2pm, Sunday 26 August 2012
Skelmersdale United
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New Liverpool manager Matt Beard insists there is a buzz around the Merseyside club ahead of his first home game against Lincoln on Sunday.
The Merseysiders, who sit two places above basement club Doncaster Rovers Belles, suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat at Bristol last weekend during the former Chelsea manager’s first game at the helm.
When asked if he was looking forward to taking charge of his first home Beard replied: "I am. The players have been working hard on and off the pitch, trying to improve fitness levels.
"I was pleased with our performance against Bristol to a certain extent - I thought we defended well. I thought we kept our shape quite well. There’s a good buzz around the place at the moment and we’re looking to make sure that we improve week by week.
"I’m under no pressure this year, I’ve inherited someone else’s squad, and we’re going to be assessing that squad over the next two-and-a-half months. Everyone has got a fresh start, everyone has got a clean slate and everyone is playing for their future at the football club."
Sunday’s opponents Lincoln currently sit four points above Liverpool in sixth, having picked up just one point in their last three league outings.
Despite their lowly standing, Beard believes Lincoln will be tough opponents, although he feels his side have an added incentive to beat the Lady Imps.
"It’s going to be a tough game. I think they’re in a false position in the league table with the squad that they’ve got. I know after getting beaten [by Birmingham City Ladies] at the weekend they’re going to want to bounce back," he added.
"They like to try and play, they’re organised. There’s a good incentive for us to win - if we do, we go a point behind them."
Beard also revealed that he has two main injury worries, with Lizzie Ince and Alex Culvin (bruised ribs) rated as doubtful for Sunday’s fixture.
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