The FA has confirmed that the final of this
season’s AXA FA Women’s Premier League Cup will take place
on Sunday April 7th at Wycombe Wanderers FC,
kick-off 12noon. Professional outfit Fulham, who are
unbeaten this season, will meet Birmingham City.
<br><br>Wycombe hosted an England women’s international in 1998,
with visitors Romania losing 2-1, and the club were
keen to host another fixture. Last season’s final was
held at Chester City FC and attracted a crowd of 2,500
and Wycombe will be promoting the game within the
local area to try to achieve a record attendance.
<br><br>Wycombe Manager Lawrie Sanchez said: “Once again our club
has been honoured by The Football Association by
staging the Women’s Premier League Cup Final here. The
Adams Park pitch is renowned for its great playing
surface and the club has a reputation for putting these
events on. Birmingham City v Fulham will be a big
attraction for fans and I feel sure there will be a good
turn out for the game. <br><br>“I have not seen too
much of women’s football, but what I have seen has
been of a high standard and skilful. Anyone who has
not seen a live match involving women should make a
date to come to see this game, they will be surprised
by how good these girls are.” <br><br>Wanderers
player and Canada international Mark Rogers is looking
forward to attending the game. “My wife Lynn plays
regularly for Denham Ladies and it something we are very
used to. Back home, women’s football is huge in North
America. Since we have been over here, the game has got
bigger and the standard has gone up. The Wanderers have
a ladies team and Lynn did start out with them, but
she has been playing for some time and has attained a
very good level. <br><br>“For Adams Park to be awarded
this event is great. We shall be here to watch and I
am sure there will be a big crowd wanting to see the
match.” <br><br>Both Birmingham and Fulham play outside
the top flight, but look likely to play in the
Women’s Premier League next season as they lead the
Northern and Southern Divisions respectively. This season
will be the first ever time where both teams have
beaten top flight opposition to contest a final.
<br><br>Birmingham have only lost one game themselves this season –
to Fulham in the FA Cup Fifth Round. They did make
an early victory though when they won the toss to
have the home dressing room for the final, while
Fulham will reside in the away changing rooms.
<br><br>Tickets go on sale for the fixture on Monday, priced at
£3 for adults and £1 for under-16s and OAPs. Tickets
will be on sale at the gate, subject to interest, but
it is advisable to buy them in advance from the
ticket hotline on 01494 441118.