The final of the Sussex Women’s Challenge Cup is due to take place on Thursday 20 February between Chichester City and Crawley Wasps.

Chichester City vs. Crawley Wasps 
Sussex Women’s Challenge Cup Final 
Date: Thursday 20 February 2020 
Kick-off: 7.15pm
Venue: Sussex County FA, Culver Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN15 9A

Chichester City come into Thursday’s final as the current champions having beaten Brighton & Hove Albion last year, their second time winning the competition. 

Sadie Blakely will proudly lead Chi Ladies out having previously represented them as a player and taking up the manager’s role this season.

Chi aren’t enjoying the best of form in the league and Blakely knows just how much this will mean to her and the team: “It’s massive for everyone at the club, especially for the players we have this season as we have been through a lot on and off the pitch. 

“Honestly I think the players are buzzing and excited for this. It would be amazing to retain the cup from last with a whole new squad.”

Chichester City are a club at the heart of its community and play a key role in developing female football in the area. Last season alone, Chi can boast over 600 females aged 4-19 that had playing opportunities within the club achieved through Just Play and Wildcats festivals, all of which were coached by senior female players from the club. 

There is no doubt, however, that Chi face stern competition ahead of them in the final coming up against their league counterparts Crawley Wasps who are flying at the top of The FA Women’s National League and Blakely is very aware of the threat they will pose: “Crawley will be a very hard test. They are having a very good campaign this year with some very experienced players. 

“This is clearly shown with them being top of the league at the moment and looking a very good bet to win it.”

Chi are always well supported in the local community as a result of the hard-work they do, regularly attract three-figure crowds and partnership with Chichester College enables them to provide an academic route for players also. 

The Sussex Women’s Challenge Cup has seen some solid performances from Chi Ladies and Blakely is delighted with their run-in to the final: “It’s been very good; we haven’t conceded any goals and we have scored eight which it great for the team morale. 

“It’s real positive for us because of where we are in the league even though it’s only two games it’s great to have that focus on the cup.”  

Entry prices for the final are as follows:
£6.00 Adult (17+)
£4.00 Concession (65+ and students with valid student ID card)
FREE Child (16 and under)
£1.50 Official Match Day Programme

For further details about the Sussex Women’s Challenge Cup please contact Competitions:

Competitions
T: 01903 753547
E: Competitions@SussexFA.com