Powell may freshen things up for Cup test

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Albion play their third game in a week against Reading today.

Bruce Talbot

2022-01-30T07:00:00Z

Hope Powell is proud of the part she has played in the development of the women's game.

Hope Powell says that the tight turnaround between games means she is likely to freshen up her team for Sunday’s Vitality FA Cup tie at home to Reading.

It will be Albion’s third game in a week after they held WSL champions Chelsea to a goalless draw last Sunday before they were edged out 2-1 at leaders Arsenal on Thursday.

“The demands of the Chelsea and Arsenal games were very high, physically and mentally it is quite exhausting,” she said.

“Three games in seven days is a lot for any player to endure so we’ll be looking at those who are fresher than others. That’s why we have a squad, it will give opportunity to players who haven’t had as much game time but it will still be a strong team and one we think can win the game."

Albion face a Reading team in fine form. They are unbeaten in seven games and have won their last four in the WSL, a new club record. Albion have never beaten the Royals in six previous WSL meetings.

But Albion have gained something of a reputation in the FA Cup recently, having reached the last eight two years ago and the semi-finals of last season’s competition.

“We have had a chat about it as a squad and the girls want to do well in the FA Cup,” added Powell. “If you progress it’s another game and it keeps the season going, it’s a special competition and hopefully we can start another good run on Sunday.”

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