Interviews

We can cause an upset, says Le Tissier

Albion face Arsenal on Sunday in the semi-final of the Vitality FA Cup

By Bruce Talbot • 30 October 2021

By Kyle Hemsley

Maya Le Tissier says Albion’s players believe they can shake off the underdog tag and reach the Vitality FA Cup final for the first time in their history.

Arsenal will be big favourites in Sunday’s semi-final and have home advantage at Meadow Park, but Le Tissier thinks Albion will relish the challenge of upsetting the unbeaten WSL leaders.

Albion have never reached a Wembley final, with their last appearance at this stage of the competition 45 years ago.

“I love testing myself against the best players in the world so I’m looking forward to it," she said. 

By Kyle Hemsley
Maya Le Tissier is looking forward to testing herself against Arsenal

“There is no pressure on us, we’re not expected to win outside the club so we will give it all. It is everyone’s dream to play at Wembley and we’re one step away from that.

“Why can’t we get to the final and even win the trophy? It’s going to be hard but we all want to go to Wembley. We’ll prepare well and do everything we can to win.”

Le Tissier was one of ten Albion players who have been on international duty, a record for the club. She was among a quartet who played for England under-23s in a 1-0 win over Belgium when teammate Katie Robinson scored the winning goal.

She added, “It was a great experience and I think it definitely helps when so many of our players are competing at that level or in World Cup games for their countries. It gives you an insight into what’s needed at that level and is brilliant experience for big games like Arsenal.

“We’ve all been back for a few days now preparing for Sunday and the mood among the girls is brilliant.”