FC St Helens Women have begun preparations for their FA Cup first-round game against tier 4 side Doncaster Rovers Belles on Sunday.
The Stripes currently sit second in the league with only one loss; however, their full focus now turns to their thrilling cup run.
Morale around the club is high following their 9-0 win last Sunday, and they will look to carry that momentum into the FA Cup game.
The game marks a huge moment not just for the players but for the club as a whole.
Manager Rosie Havelin said, “We’ve sold over 100 tickets to the game already, and I expect there to be around 200 on the day.”
It won’t be the first time a St Helens team has faced Doncaster in the FA Cup, however.
Club chairperson and welfare officer Judith Hughes faced Doncaster in the FA Cup final twice—in both 1983 and 1987.
Rosie said, “Jude is an inspiration to me. She may not always be involved in the coaching side of things, but she does everything for the club. The win will definitely be for her as well.”
St Helens are also hoping that their home advantage will play a big role in the game.
The Stripes have only lost three games at home in the last four seasons, two of those losses coming in this competition.
Rosie added, “Sunday is going to be one of the biggest turnouts we’ve had for a game, and the players love having their family and friends there to support them.”
A win would be monumental for Rosie and her tier 6 side after forming just four years ago.
With two consecutive promotions and a fourth-place finish last year, the team looks to further its achievements with an outstanding victory on Sunday.
