The Hoops went 2 goals down early on, with Stonesfield notching twice in the opening 10 minutes. City found a way back into the game just before half-time with Abigail Smith reducing the deficit. 

Amelia Alves-Martins then drew level in the 58th minute which would then gain momentum to push on and win the cup tie in the 77th minute thanks to a top corner finish from the star player in the match Ellie White, who scored herself after assisting the first 2 City goals.

 Aside from the cup, City’s attention now turns back to the league where they face Winchester City next weekend here at the Velocity Stadium. Following on from their cup win, and with their next league game up ahead we spoke to Mark Andrews to get his thoughts

“I’m happy to get the result and claim our place in the semi-final.  We made it harder than it should have been but showed great character.”

“It's a great achievement for the team.  We're still rebuilding and have had a number of unfortunate injury setbacks but everyone has pulled together and have been working hard in training.”

The Hoops will be back in training this week to quickly move onto the next fixture and pick up 3 more points in the league to hopefully propel them up the league table. Mark Andrews will make sure his side stays grounded and pushes on to keep getting results.

“The squad have all stepped up in recent weeks and there's a new found pride in stepping out in City colours and they have begun to see rewards for their efforts.”

“Preparations will continue in the same vein and will work hard to take all 3 points against Winchester.”

City have been without their top scorer Jessica Biggerstaff, who before her injury had 6 goals in 8 games, is still going to be missing more games, however recently they have made up for her absence with a couple of wins in both the league and cup. 

“Jess had started the season really well but has missed the last 5 games with a knee injury and looks to be out until after Christmas.  We've had to find our goals from elsewhere.”

“3 points would be important to cement our position in the league and maintain the confidence of the squad.”

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