AFC BOURNEMOUTH’S Katie James is anticipating an open game as Swindon Town make the trip to the Vitality Stadium on Sunday.

James is part of the Cherries midfield that will welcome table toppers Swindon in what promises to be an exciting game at the top of the National League.

“I think naturally, on the Vitality pitch, the pitch is a bit bigger than what both teams will be used to, so I think it will be open,” James explained to the Daily Echo.

“I think it will be exciting.

“You've got two teams that aren't going to hold back, and I think those are the kind of games that people want to come and watch.

“I think it'll be a great advert for the National League and especially the talent that we have in our group.

“I think it's an excellent opportunity for us to showcase that.”

There will be more than 5,000 fans coming down to support the side at Dean Court, as the Cherries women’s team plays at the stadium for the first time this season.

(Image: Richard Crease) On the extra element that this brings to their preparation, James said it does change a little bit in the lead up to the match.

“The media team and Steve are excellent at keeping us updated on sales and stuff, which I think gives us that psychological preparation along the way,” she said.

“So, we always know where we're at in terms of how many people are going to be there, and it gives people that chance to mentally prepare for that.

“We tend to get there a little bit earlier as well for these sorts of games just because of the fans that are coming. So, there's that added side of it.

“We're going to have a bit of extra time when we're at the ground, but the girls are great and I think we find ways to fill the time.

“We're all pretty together and it's a great group. So, there's a lot of banter and stuff flying about in the changing group, so that tends to get us ticking.”

Calling on families and fans to come to support, James said: “I think, it's going to be a massively exciting game.

“It's a top of the table clash. Of course, those games are always exciting and the talent that's going to be on show in that game with it being a top of the table clash, it's going to be a great advert for the National League and I think women's football in general.

“I think if you can get down and bring your kids and everyone, then I think it's going to be a great day out.”