Lincoln United Women are hoping to defend their League Cup crown against Derby County Academy this Sunday, with a win meaning that United would see successive League Cup wins for the first time in their history.
Last year, ‘The Whites’ won the competition after Liv Smith netted a late free-kick in extra time against Chesterfield to secure a narrow 1-0 victory at Eagle Valley.
Derby County Academy finished as champions in Division One South of the EMWRFL. ‘The Rams’ scored an impressive 99 goals in 18 games and have conceded just 11 goals during their league campaign.
County showed that they could compete with Premier Division sides after cruising to a comfortable 4-1 victory against Notts County in the semi-finals.
United have also proven to be lethal in front of goal this season, ‘The Whites’ have netted 93 goals in the highest division of the EMWRFL whilst securing a third-place finish in their first season at Step 5 football.
Lincoln United have had a challenging route to the final, which has seen victories against Premier Division Champions Northampton Town and the runners-up Chesterfield.
Ahead of Sunday’s final, Chris Funnell reflected on the type of game that he is expecting to see. He said: “ I am expecting a good game against a group of good footballers that have momentum from winning the league and ultimately want to prove to Derby County that they are in a position to play first-team football.”
The final is scheduled for a 3pm kick-off this Sunday at Halbrooke Stadium.
Match report by Nathan Matthie