The Belles are on the road as they begin this season’s journey in the Sheffield & Hallamshire FA Women’s Senior Cup, travelling to Rotherham United in the First Round of the competition on Sunday, September 17 (2pm KO).
Seven-time winners of the competition, the side last term reached the final for the first time in 13 years, navigating their way to the showpiece without conceding a single goal.
Played at the Eco-Power Stadium back in May, the Belles lost out to higher-tier opposition in Huddersfield Town as the Terriers - appearing in the final of the same competition for a sixth year running - retained their crown.
Skip forward four months, and this season’s campaign in the County Cup starts on the back of a 2-2 draw at Stockport County for the Belles.
Manager Sam Winch and Alexandre Brito Nogueira saw their side take a two-goal lead on the hour-mark in Greater Manchester last weekend, but the hosts fought back to earn a point from behind.
Arianne Parnham was on the scoresheet for the Belles against the Hatters, alongside captain Jess Tugby-Andrew who doubled her tally for the season having also netted in the League Cup Determining Round at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Sunday’s trip to the Roundwood Park Sports Complex (S62 6LA) provides a sixth competitive outing of the campaign for the Belles, though just a third for opponents Rotherham.
The Millers compete in the East Midlands Women’s Regional Football League Premier Division, so far beating Grimsby Town’s academy side 1-0 and drawing 2-2 with Chesterfield Ladies last time out.
Abbie Staples and Caitlin O’Callaghan were the pair on target for United in that draw last weekend, the latter coming off the bench to net a late leveller for Pete Jarvis’ side and earn them a point in the process.
Rotherham have advised us that payment on the gate on Sunday will be cash only, and we urge all supporters making the trip to have the correct change where possible.
Entry costs £3 for adults, with that price including an entry into a raffle ran by the hosts on the day. Students can watch on for just £2, while all other concessions including U16s are free of charge.
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Don't forget, to celebrate our proud history and in honour of our year of formation, 1969, adult season tickets will be reduced to just £19.69, that’s just £1.79 per game, find out more HERE.