Match Preview

Christmas is coming to New Alresford as Southampton Women's FC take on Exeter City in the Third Round of the Women's FA Cup.

It'll be second time lucky for the fixture that was postponed last Sunday due to a waterlogged pitch.

Southampton will be bringing the Christmas spirit off the pitch with mulled wine, mince pies and presents for children and Aaron Smith will be hoping for an early present on the pitch.

This will be the second meeting between the two sides this season following the draw in the league back in September.

Exeter took the lead through Molly Taylor before Sian Wylie and Britt Jeal scored either side of half-time.

The game headed deep into injury-time with Southampton looking likely to get the three points by Taylor popped up in the 98th minute to give the Grecians a point.

Both sides have been in good form this season as they sit third and fourth in the FA Women's National League Division South West.

Just the two losses all season for Exeter coming against Plymouth Argyle and Cheltenham Town.

The Grecians have progressed under the leadership of Abbie Britton and Aaron Wakely with the ambition of winning promotion to the National League Premier.

Sarah Stacey and Connie Pengelly will be the players to watch for Southampton's defence as the two have scored 16 goals between them this season.

In addition, Phoebe Barker and Taylor have been in fine form picking up six opposition player of the match awards showing their hard work during matches which could lend to some great battles in the middle of the pitch.

Exeter booked their place in the Third Round with a convincing 5-0 win over fellow Hampshire side Eastleigh in the Community, a Stace hat-trick proving decisive.

For the Reds, they took on league rivals Cheltenham where they came from behind twice to take the game to penalties where Ellie Parker made two crucial saves to send Southampton through.

Sunday's game will be an exciting encounter especially as both teams know that it's an away fixture against West Bromwich Albion that awaits the winner.

Match Details

Spectators coming to the game can pay for entry at the gate for just £5 for adults, £3 for seniors, and under-16s get in free.

Mince pies, mulled wine will be on offer to fans for free as well as every child attending receiving a free Christmas gift.

The matchday programme will continue to be available via a digital download with partners Zeeon which fans can view here.

Gates are open from 1:00pm for the 2:00pm kick-off in the Women's FA Cup.

The Arlebury Bar will be open where fans can purchase alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and hot drinks however, spectators are reminded that no alcoholic drinks are allowed at pitchside please remain at the bar or on the balcony.