Wednesday 18th September 2024
Royal Wootton Bassett Town will be aiming for an Adobe Women's FA Cup upset on Sunday - and to reach the third qualifying round of the competition for a third consecutive season - when they take on tier five side Ilminster Town at the Sustain Stadium (2pm kick off).
Having been relegated alongside Bassett two years ago, Ilminster secured their return to the South West Regional Women's Football League Premier Division at the first attempt last season, finishing as Western Division champions.
The Somerset side have significant cup pedigree too - and Bassett will have to be at their best to advance.
Last season also saw Ilminster enjoy success in the Women's FA Cup, reaching the first round proper for the second time - having also progressed through the qualifying rounds in 2021-22.
Since first entering the competition in 2005-06, Ilminster have advanced to the third qualifying round on three further occasions.
Adam Wood and his side will be up against familiar opponents too - and ones who Bassett historically have struggled to beat.
Ilminster have won eight out of ten previous meetings - including a 4-2 victory in the Women's FA Cup preliminary round in 2014-15 and a 4-3 Divisional Cup quarter final triumph last year.
Bassett have won just two of their previous meetings - with both coming in the league in 2022-23, including a 5-0 home win.
Both teams will be up for Sunday's important game - and it would be great to see a big crowd to cheer Bassett on as they take to the national stage once again.
Admission is £4 for adults and £2 for concessions (including RWBTFC youth members).
Also this weekend, both the Men's First Team and Development sides are away on Saturday.
In the Hellenic League Premier Division Bassett visit Hartpury University just a fortnight after the teams met at the Sustain Stadium.
After a 3-0 defeat in Wiltshire, Bassett will be hoping to even the season series against the student side.
Meanwhile, in the Wiltshire League Premier Division the Development side make the short journey to face Calne Town Reserves - who Bassett did the double over last season, winning both games 2-0.
Both games on Saturday kick off at 3pm.
Last modified on Wednesday 18th September 2024 at 16:00.