Powell: Hard-fought, but we deserved to go through

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Head coach reflects on Albion's FA Cup win over Bristol City

Bruce Talbot

2021-04-18T15:40:00Z

Albion head coach Hope Powell.

Hope Powell felt her side deserved to progress to the fifth round of the Vitality FA Women's Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Bristol City.

In a game of few clear-cut chances, Inessa Kaagman scored her eighth goal of the season from the penalty spot in the second half to settle the fourth-round encounter at the People's Pension Stadium.

Albion will now be at home to Huddersfield Town, who are top of the National League's Northern Premier Division, on May 16. Huddersfield progressed after a 3-2 win over Derby County on Sunday.

Powell said, "It wasn't the best game to watch. By their own admission the players felt they needed to lift their levels in the second half and we played with more fight and spirit. We didn't play particularly well but we won the game, so that's encouraging.

"It was nice to give some minutes to players who haven't had a lot of game time and I thought the players who came in did well. We made a lot of changes but I think that shows that we do have strength in depth and players who can come in and make a positive difference."

Emily Simpkins tries to win back possession

Kaagman's penalty came after Jemma Purfield had handled the ball trying to prevent Emily Simpkins from getting off a shot which hit the post.

"I didn't really see it but there was some contact and Inessa was ruthless with the penalty, as she has been this season," added Powell.

"It's good to get through and we look forward to being at home in the next round which is important. We'll have to do our homework on Huddersfield but they are having a good season so we know it won't be easy, but we want to keep progressing in the FA Cup and it's a chance to do that."