The international break is upon us once again and you might be forgiven for thinking that all would be quiet in women's North East football as we edge towards the end of the season. As this week's news showed, you couldn't be more wrong.

After Sunderland lost to Birmingham, Newcastle left it very late to equalise at home against Forest and Durham got a deserved draw over Bristol, most things look like they are in place for the end of the season.

Newcastle will need Crystal Palace to lose both their remaining games for them to have a chance of the play-off and Durham look safer than they did, but still cannot be complacent with only two points above the drop.

It is Sunderland who have nothing to play for, at least in terms of promotion or relegation, but it is they who are making sure it isn't a quiet two weeks.

Earlier this week, the club announced 'an agreement for Bay Collective to acquire a majority take in Sunderland AFC...