NEW Bristol Academy coach Mark Sampson is predicting a tough opener for his side when they face Sunderland in their FA Women's Premier League clash at Oaklands Park, Almondsbury tomorrow (2pm).

The Black Cats were FA Women's Cup finalists last term as well as Northern Division champions and Sampson believes they are destined for a top-half finish.

It has been a turbulent summer at the Academy, with the exit of former coach Gary Green and the departure of Gwen Harries, Stef Curtis and Corinne Yorston.

Sampson said: "The rest of the girls have decided to stay with us, which we are pleased about."

The Academy have signed centre-back Katie Middleton from Plymouth and Jaz Matthews from Cornwall.

"We also have girls from last year's successful Filton College team coming through," said Sampson.

"We have a young squad but the girls are enthusiastic and talented."

Sampson remains in temporary charge.