We ask Liverpool Marshall Feds captain Chantelle Thompson about her side’s dramatic ‘cupset’ win last Sunday…
We are featuring Liverpool Marshall Feds in the next issue of SK (Issue 39, out the start of Jan) but after their excellent result on Sunday in the Women’s FA Cup (1-1 aet v Stoke City, going through 4-2 on spot kicks), we couldn’t wait to hear what skipper Channi Thompson had to say about their victory!
SK: Bit of a big win, on Sunday for you eh, Channi?! How does that rank in terms of big results for you and the team?
CT: Yeah it was great feeling. To be away to a team like Stoke City – who our a well-established team in the league above – and come away with a win, was amazing. Amongst the girls, we never doubted ourselves. We were confident that if we stuck to our game plan, that we could go there and pull off a “cupset”. All 14 of the girls had worked so hard for the 120 minutes, so when they missed their final penalty it was such a big relief and everyone just went crazy. The changing room was buzzing afterwards!
SK: Had you practised penalties?
CT: We all had a few tries at the end of training on the Wednesday night before but when it came to it, it was more about whoever was confident enough to step up and take one. Luckily, we had five volunteers. Although, Helen Griffiths’ ‘one-step’ pens always scare me!!
SK: What’s your thoughts on the draw [they have Newcastle United at home in the 3rd Rd]?
CT: I’m pleased with the draw as it’s a home tie and another chance for us to test ourselves against a big name team in the league above. With us being the underdogs there is no pressure on us, so that’s always a nice feeling. I don’t think you can ever say there is an easy draw, whether you have someone in the league below or league above, everyone has a chance: that’s the magic of the FA Cup!
Also, I think that sometimes there are ‘grassroots’ clubs like ourselves that don’t get the recognition that we deserve. People love to mention the ‘named’ teams like your Hull’s & Leed’s, clubs that are associated or have a name that associates with a big club. No-one really wants to write about your Feds, Mossley Hill’s etc. We don’t have a big money chairman or any sponsors, we literally survive off player subs and fundraising. So, for us to compete where we are today and sustain it – is quite an achievement.
You can follow Feds on twitter: @liverpoolfeds or like their Facebook page: Liverpoolfeds
