Albion Women Manager Siobhan Hodgetts-Still says her side “can’t wait” for Thursday’s Adobe Women’s FA Cup tie against Everton (ko 7.30pm).
The Baggies welcome the Women’s Super League Toffees to the Alexander Stadium for the fourth-round clash, which will also be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1.
Hodgetts-Still’s team were also surprised by record Lionesses cap holder Fara Williams at their most recent training session, and that’s exactly the type of intrigue that the boss says the cup encounter will provide.
She said: “We’re really excited as a group for Thursday to come around. It’s going to be a good experience and a good test against top opposition, we’re looking forward to it and can’t wait for it to come.
“We’re not used to being on TV so I think the girls will enjoy the experience. It was new having Fara Williams within the group to share her experiences. She’s had an amazing career so that was great to hear about and she inspired some of the girls.
“I don’t think it’s been ideal that we’ve had two games called off due to the weather in recent weeks, but the girls have still been in training, still preparing. We’ve still had a good bit of game time and it’s been a really good week.”
The Manager is under no illusions as to the difficulty when it comes to taking on a top-tier side, having faced eventual finalists Manchester United at Leigh Sports Village at the same stage last term, but says the team will need fans to create an atmosphere to stand a good chance of completing a giant-killing.
Hodgetts-Still said: “Last season, we did well and limited Man United to limited chances for 77 minutes, so we have to take some of that positivity into Thursday. But we know that if we switch off, just like in the last few minutes of that tie, we’ll be punished.
“That’s the difference between the two leagues with the quality of individuals and international players that they have. The girls will obviously give it their best shot, they’ll work hard and show resilience to put in a performance to be proud of.
“We’re really excited. We don’t get to see that level of opposition at the Alexander Stadium, in terms of a Women’s Super League side like Everton.
“I’d encourage all fans to come along and support the girls, it’s sure to be a good game. If you haven’t got your tickets, go and get one and hopefully we’ll see you all tomorrow.”
