Wildcats Prowl Into FA Cup 3rd Round

Durham Wildcats blazed into the third round of the Women’s FA Cup following a sensational 4-1 win away to Sheffield Wednesday WFC.

Durham’s Elise McLear and Jess Quador set the early tempo and the underdog’s possession paid off when Laura Stockdale fired into the top corner from a long-range free kick after seven minutes.

Blustery conditions saw Sheffield’s defence continue to crumble under set pieces and Durham’s lead was double on 26 minutes. Centre back Anna Faux took advantage of wayward defending from a corner to bundle home.

Midfielder Emily Clark, returning from injury, gifted Sheffield a lifeline with half time looming. She sloppily surrendered possession for Sheffield to half the deficit.

But suggestions of a fight back were quashed when Clark made amends for her error, slotting the ball through to Gemma Nortcliffe, who supplied an assured finish.

An incredible cup upset was completed with 15 minutes to go. The impressive McLear dribbled her way to the edge of the box and lobbed the keeper with a cool finish to make it 25 goals in the FA Cup this season for the Wildcats, conceding just twice.

Durham are the lowest ranked team left in the competition.

Captain, Maeve Clarke, said the Wildcats cannot wait for the third round:
“The whole squad and coaching staff deserve praise for what was a fantastically spirited team performance, this competition has been great for us this season and we’re eagerly anticipating the 3rd round.”



Durham welcome Preston North End to Brewery Field on February 5th for their third round encounter.