AFC Fylde Women are in county cup action on Sunday when they meet Burnley FC Women in the Lancashire FA Women’s Senior Cup at the Anchor Ground in Darwen.
The Coasters take on the Claret Women on Sunday 21st January for a chance to book their place in the final of the competition.
Weather permitting, this cup tie will be played at the home of AFC Darwen as a neutral venue, and there will be free admission for all supporters. Kick-off is scheduled for the usual time of 2.00 pm.
The Coasters started 2024 with a slender 2-1 defeat to Stourbridge FC Women at the War Memorial Athletic Ground. After making a bright start, Fylde broke the deadlock inside the opening quarter of an hour when Lois Moore converted a rebound from close range.
Somewhat against the run of play, Stourbridge then equalised midway through the first half when Jessica Lowe fired home from just inside the box. Although the Coasters came close to regaining the lead on several occasions, it was the Glass Girls who grabbed the winner late on when Kelsey Richardson rifled home a direct free-kick from the edge of the area.
The result was harsh on the Coasters, who were unfortunate to come away from the West Midlands empty-handed after a resolute performance on the road.
On 12th January, AFC Fylde Women were delighted to announce the appointment of Jake Williams and Steve Mainwaring as joint First Team Managers. Both Jake and Steve possess extensive coaching and management experience in the men’s and women’s game, both domestically and internationally.
Jake and Steve cannot wait to get started and are fully focused on the challenge of retaining the club’s position in the FAWNL Northern Premier Division. In addition, Connor Wild will now resume his role as Assistant Manager following a short period serving as Interim Manager.
It is safe to say that this Sunday’s game will provide the new management duo with a tough test against their Lancashire neighbours. Rebecca Sawiuk’s Burnley team have impressed so far this season and currently occupy second place in the table.
Last weekend, the Claret Women were involved in the Fourth Round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup, in which they managed to take Championship side Birmingham City Women all the way to extra-time, before eventually bowing out of the competition with a 3-1 defeat.
Supporters are encouraged to come along to the Anchor Ground for what promises to be an exciting cup tie this Sunday afternoon.
Words by Scott Jones
