Moors Ladies are gearing up for a big game on Sunday as they begin this season’s Women’s FA Cup campaign against Gateshead Rutherford at The Brewery Field (2pm kick-off).
The lasses enjoyed a wonderful run in the competition last year, defeating Blackpool on their way to an appearance in the Second Round Proper where they were beaten 3-2 at Chester-le-Street Town.
Now all the drama begins again for Moors in Second Round Qualifying in which they will host a Rutherford outfit who saw off Berwick Rangers in the previous round.
Moors boss Brent Smithson is hoping the players can be inspired by the memories of last year’s run but also by the superb 4-1 win over Hull United last time out at The Brewery Field a fortnight ago.
“We’re all really looking forward to playing in the FA Cup again this weekend,” he told us.
“It’s a home tie for us which is a bonus and being back at The Brewery Field can hopefully give us an advantage – I just hope the weather is kinder to us than the torrential rain we had for the Hull game!
“The fans turned out in good numbers despite the conditions and we’re hopeful of another good crowd to cheer the girls on again on Sunday.
“We know that Gateshead Rutherford will be keen to come and cause a bit of an upset, so we have to show them respect but also use the confidence we have to produce a professional performance.”
Smithson has the luxury of a strong squad to select from this weekend though he will be without goalkeeper Sophie Miller, so Alex Saunders is expected to get the nod to go between the sticks. Coral Colledge remains sidelined through injury.
Tickets are available online right now, while fans can also pay by cash or card direct on the turnstiles prior to kick-off on Sunday. Admission is just £3 for adults and free for all those under 12.
Season Ticket holders are reminded that cup games are not part of your package so you will need to pay for entry to Sunday’s tie.
