The final of the Sussex Women’s Challenge Trophy is due to take place on Thursday 30 January 2020 between Bexhill United Ladies and Oakwood Ladies.

Bexhill United Ladies vs. Oakwood Ladies
Sussex Women’s Challenge Trophy Final
Date: Thursday 30 January 2020
Kick-off: 7.15pm
Venue: Sussex County FA, Culver Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN15 9AX

On Thursday, we kick off our County Cup Final season with the Sussex Women’s Challenge Trophy in what is set to be a very intriguing affair. The two teams sit fourth and third respectively competing in the South East Counties Women’s League Division One West.

The sides have already met in the League Cup this season when Bexhill ran out 2-1 winners. Oakwood, however, soon gained their revenge in League action winning 4-1 and Bexhill United manager, Katie Wilde, had nothing but admiration for their counterparts: “On current league form, Oakwood are on top, so we’ll be hoping for a tight affair given that we are underdogs going into the game. 

“They (Oakwood) are a good outfit, strong in all the key places who like to play possession football. We strive to retain and effectively move the ball also, so we’ll aim to win our individual battles to collectively match them.”

Bexhill have faced difficult tests en route to the final, something Katie believes has given them great preparation: “We met a well-organised unbeaten side (Lancing Ladies) in the quarter-finals seeing out the fixture, winning 2-1. 

“In the Semi-Final we then met another unbeaten team in Roffey, who are a great passing side. After being 1-0 down with only eight minutes remaining, not only did we equalise, we pushed on and scored a winner in what was the last kick of the game. 

“Our route to the final has therefore given us experience of protecting a lead in difficult circumstances as well as demonstrating character and resilience to grind out a result.”

Oakwood manager, Andy Parsons, himself expects a close-fought, cup tie: “We know each other fairly well. Bexhill combined the two teams they had last season to make a good group of players. 

“We expect a close game and I am certain it will be a well fought final.”

Oakwood started the tournament with a comprehensive win over Worthing Town followed by a very impressive win over Burgess Hill Town and then a comfortable victory over AFC Varndeanians to reach the final. 

Andy Parsons sees the opportunity as a very proud one for him and his players: “Always a great achievement for my team to reach a final. 

“Huge credit goes to all the players for getting here and all the back-room staff who make things happen, it’s almost a full-time job! 

“We are all very proud to reach another cup final following the Chairman’s Cup Final back in April last year and we are looking forward to being cheered on by our supporters and sponsors.”

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 Trophy please contact Competitions:

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