Phillips: We'll fight for our place at Wembley

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New Albion head coach will relish first game in charge in FA Cup semi-final.

Heather Miller

2023-04-15T06:00:00Z

Phillips ready for first Albion challenge

Albion fight for a place at Wembley on Saturday when we travel to Leigh Sports Village to face Manchester United in the semi-final of the Vitality Women's FA Cup.

New boss Melissa Phillips is eager to kick-start her era at Brighton with some FA Cup success against the current WSL league leaders.

In her first press conference, Phillips expressed her delight to join the club as we prepare for a crucial end of season run-in.

She said, "Brighton have an unbelievable vision for their women's programme and they've supported that well with the facilities, infrastructure and resources.

"They've provided the players and staff with a real platform to be successful, now it's about making sure we have stability and build an identity. There's so much potential for us to be successful, it's just about getting things right on the pitch.

"We've got a brilliant game to look forward to today which will be difficult but we'll look at the opportunity more than the challenges that we face - we want to have a positive mindset for everything that we do from now on."

Phillips took time to recognise the pivotal role that Amy Merricks has played at the club during her eight years with Albion before she leaves next week to become the head coach of the England under-19 team.

She added, "I don't think there is enough thanks that can be said to the work that Amy has done to provide stability and direction for the players and staff. you can see the performances during her interim care. She's been fantastic for me during the transitional period."

The American coach eagerly looked ahead to today's much-anticipated semi-final against United, and emphasised the massive achievement the squad have attained during a challenging season to get to this stage.

She added, "You can't understate the achievement, it's something to be celebrated amidst some transitional moments throughout the year.

"Looking back at the league game against United [a fortnight ago], I don't think 4-0 was an indictment of our performance. For 60-70 minutes we were well organised and created some good chances.

"We've not thought about who the pressure is on today. Both teams will be up for the occasion and know how special the FA Cup is. We'll both be vying for that place at Wembley."