The Vixens play host to Nottingham Forest Ladies this weekend in the Women’s FA Cup first round proper.
Forest play in the league above (FA Women’s Premier League) and are currently in ninth place. They come into the game looking to add to their win last weekend against Newcastle United, it was their first for seven games.
The Vixens are wanting to prove themselves. Last time out against opposition in the league above was their FA Plate game against Huddersfield Town Ladies which they look to penalties before eventually losing.
Captain Alarna Fuller voiced her thoughts on the upcoming fixture saying:”We’re all excited by the thought of another clash with a team in the league above and it’s another chance to prove to ourselves and others that that’s where we belong.
“We all as a team feel that we’re capable of competing at that level so we’re all thriving off of the week of training and preparation ahead of us.
“It’s always great to progress to the next level in any cup competition but the FA Cup is the big one and as they say, anything can happen so we’re looking to go as far as we can.”
Manager Glen Preston, who has previous success in the Women’s FA Cup having taken Huddersfield Town Ladies to the second round, feels confident heading into the game.
He said: “I’m really looking forward to it as this is the best domestic cup competition there is and it provides every club with a platform with which to try and create a little piece of history. We’ve drawn a great club with a rich history in the women’s game in Nottingham Forrest and so we are excited to pit our wits against a top side this weekend.
“It’s great for the club as it helps raise the profile, it also helps with finances and it’s where the competition begins really. For us as coaches and the vast majority of our playing staff this is not something new for us as we all have a lot of experience at this level and beyond so we feel as though we can prepare well for the occasion.”
Joint Manager Kyle O’Reilly also commented: “It gives us confidence knowing that we took Huddersfield Town Ladies, who are next to Forest in the league, to penalties! If we start well then who knows what will happen.
“We more than competed with Huddersfield that day outside of the initial 20 minutes, so starting well is key.
“Forest will be well up for this game though as they’ve hit a bit of momentum which they’ll look to maintain in order to pull themselves out of the relegation scrap. They’ve a lot of quality through midfield and in their striker Andi Bell, so we need to be on our game for sure. Regardless of score it should be a cracking game!”
The game is on Sunday 4th December at Nethermoor Park. Kick-off is at 1pm and admission is £3, £1 Concessions and free to GAFC season ticket holders.
Words by Oliver Coultas
Photo: Alex Daniel
