Brighton & Hove Albion’s development squad take on Chichester City in the Sussex Women’s Challenge Cup tonight, and lead coach Jack Fagan is looking forward to seeing his side pit their wits against senior opposition.
The game is a chance for Albion’s young squad to claim some silverware, and Fagan highlighted a season of continuous improvement for the players.
He said, “In terms of this year’s progression so far, we have done really well. We have some girls who are representing their country and some who have made first team appearances too.
“The Sussex Cup is an important part of their learning curve because you are coming up against senior sides that have been playing the game for many years.
“It is an opportunity to learn and experience a cup match which has that different feel to it. It’s an opportunity to enjoy a really important game of football.
“Hopefully there will be a good crowd there and they can experience that side of it too.”
The Albion coach also added that while the main focus is on the league campaign, he highlighted what winning a trophy could do for his side’s confidence.
“We know a few of the people at Chichester and it will be tough, but we will focus on us. Our aim is the development league, but this is an opportunity for the girls and they are all here because they want to win.
“It is all about the final, we want to put on a good performance, but we want to win the game. Hopefully we can do that!”
The game tonight takes place at Culver Road, and entry prices on the gate are set at £5 for adults, £3 for concessions (over-65s and students with valid student ID) and free for under-16s.