Clubs begin quest for FA Cup glory

FOLLOWING a mixed start back for the region’s sides after the international break, attentions turn to the FA Cup as they enter at the third round stage this weekend.

- By JOHN MIDDLETON

With all WSL2 sides entering the competition this time around, joining lower league clubs, the prize on offer is a big one.

WSL1 sides will join in January for round four, handing the prospect of some attractive, money-spinning events and a chance to go against the best in the country. But first our teams need to navigate through some tricky ties.

Sunderland travel to Derby of the National League North, one step down the pyramid.

Mel Reay’s team perhaps suffered the most at the hands of the break - they seemed to be getting back to form in their cup game against Durham but two weeks later saw them beaten 3-1 by Nottingham Forest despite Emily Scarr's goal. They are down to 11th place in the WSL2.