History will be made this weekend when FA Cup football comes for the first time to Bentley Leisure Pavilion, as the new home of Darlaston Town (1874) FC will be hosting the SSE Women’s FA Cup game between Wolves and Sheffield-based Handsworth.
Wolverhampton Wanderers play in the FA Women’s Premier League Northern Division and have made an excellent start to the season with five consecutive wins.
Their opponents in the 3rd Qualifying Round tie, Handsworth, are also currently unbeaten and play in the North East League Division 1 South.
Wolves Women FC was formed in 1975 originally under the name of Heathfield Rovers before becoming Wolverhampton and Wednesbury Tube and then Wolverhampton Wanderers Women FC.
The club boasts several full England internationals, perhaps their most famous player is Bentley resident Rachel Unitt who started her career at Wolves before moving to Everton and signing her first professional contract at Fulham. Unitt, who lives within a stone’s throw of the Bentley Ground, also won 102 caps for England.
The winners of the 3rd Qualifying Round tie will pick up prize money of £200 and the prize fund overall exceeds £70,000.
Darlaston Town (1874) Chairman Neil Chambers said: “Wolves Women Under 18s, Under 15s, Under 13s, Under 11s and Under 9s already play at the Pavilion, so it is a privilege to be asked to host such a prestigious first team game.
“Over the last 12 months we have built up a superb relationship with Wolves Women FC and the quality of football at all age groups is very good.
“This area is predominantly Wolves fans and this is a fantastic opportunity for them to support their local team.”
Wolves Women Chairperson Jenny Wilkes said: “Everybody loves a bit of FA Cup magic, and we’re looking forward to playing this game at Bentley.
“As we’re away from our usual home ground of Hednesford Town, we’ll be hoping a few Bentley and Darlaston locals will come along and show their support.”
The game this Sunday 11 October is at Bentley Leisure Pavilion, Bentley Road North, Bentley, WS2 0EA, Kick-Off 2pm with admission £2 or concessions £1.
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