Le Tissier: Still so much to look forward to

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Defender disappointed with FA Cup exit, but says squad depth suggests Albion will have a good season.

Bruce Talbot

2020-09-28T09:30:00Z

Maya Le Tissier in action against Birmingham City on Sunday.

Maya Le Tissier admitted Albion paid for a slow start as they went out of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup.

Hope Powell’s side fell behind after just five minutes in Sunday’s quarter-final against Birmingham City and although they twice came from a goal down to draw 2-2 after extra time, the visitors won 4-2 on penalties.

The 18-year-old defender scored from the spot along with Rianna Jarrett, but Le Tissier felt that what happened in the opening stages contributed to Albion’s exit.

“The first half wasn’t great, we didn’t start well – we need to start quicker,” she said. “In the second half we were better, but it’s annoying. We changed formation and did all we could, we kept at it and when we made it 2-2 - I thought we’d go on and win in extra time, but it wasn’t to be.”

Maya Le Tissier fires in from the spot during Albion's penalty shootout with Birmingham City.

With four games in two weeks on the schedule, Head coach Hope Powell utilised her squad and Le Tissier says that despite Sunday’s cup exit the long-term signs are good.

“You can see the depth in our squad from the players that came in on Sunday and really made a difference,” she added.

“We always talk about being together – starters, finishers, even the players supporting from the stand. Everyone will play their part and we need everyone if we are going to win games and achieve our targets in the WSL.”

And there is still this season’s FA Cup to play for. “Exactly,” said Le Tissier. “Obviously we’re gutted to go out on penalties but there is still so much to look forward to and I’m sure with the players we have now that we’ll have a good season.”

Albion return to action in the WSL on Sunday away to Manchester United.