England "extremely excited" for SSFC Women's Liverpool Feds clash

Ava England has spoken of her excitement ahead of South Shields Women’s historic Adobe Women’s FA Cup second round proper tie against Liverpool Feds.

The youngster linked up with the rest of the first team during pre-season, having progressed from lower in the club’s pathway into the set-up, and she has found that experience a blast so far.

She highlighted the 3-1 victory over Ponteland United Women in the second qualifying round (she started that game) as being memorable for her. 

“I think the team has performed extremely well so far,” she said.

“As a team, we have had to overcome different challenges but we still push forward together. 

“On a personal level, being 16 years old and being selected for the squad in an FA Cup game is unbelievable!” 

When asked about her stand-out moments, there won't be much argument amongst the squad - that penalty shoot-out win against Halifax FC Women a fortnight ago tops the charts.

She added: “A special moment that stands out to me so far is definitely winning the Halifax game. 

“Once Eve [Gatens] had scored that winning penalty, I remember everyone running over and celebrating straight away. 

“Emotions were definitely on a high and the girls performed so well throughout the whole game and their perseverance to keep going was incredible. 

“Even though I never got any minutes on the pitch, it was still really special to be a part of that feeling.”

This Sunday sees the lasses take on third-tier Liverpool Feds at 1st Cloud Arena, in what has been billed the biggest game in the club’s history.

Whatever happens, the team can be proud of this season's journey, and it would mean so much if as many supporters as possible came along to support them!

“Personally, I am extremely excited for the Liverpool Feds game,” she continued, “as it will give us all another chance to progress into the next round. 

“We’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

“I also think that it will be a big test for our mindsets to show that no matter what tier a team we play against, we will give our all on the pitch and show that we are deserving of the position that we are currently in.”

Kick off at 1st Cloud Arena this Sunday, November 24th is at 2pm. Entry is £3 for adults and free for under 12s. Season ticket holders can attend for free, if proof is shown at the gates.

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto)