By Michael Addison: Gwalia United / University of South Wales School of Journalism
Gwalia United host Swindon Town in the final group game of the FA Women’s National League Cup at the USW Sport Park on Sunday afternoon (Kick-off: 2pm).
Away from home last weekend against AFC Wimbledon, Beth McGowan’s 15th-minute goal was enough for Gwalia to take all three points back to Wales, with a 1-0 win. The top two of the Group C table, Gwalia sit just above the Robins on goal difference, with the winners of this match guaranteeing a knockout place to the next stage.
The Robins, managed by Richard Wood, have started their league campaign in sensational style, winning all five games of the season so far, as they sit two points clear at the top of the Division One South West Table. Formed in 1993, Swindon won promotion to the FA Women’s Premier League (now National League Southern Premier Division) in 2016, staying up in 2017 before relegation a year later.
Victories over Keynsham Town (3-1) and Bristol City’s PGA (4-3) have solidified the Robins’ 100% record in all competitions this season.
Last Time Out
Last Sunday, Gwalia made it three away wins in a row as McGowan’s strike was the difference against Wimbledon, as we recorded a hard-fought 1-0 win at Imperial Fields.
Courtesy of great build-up play, a driving run from Tia Asker down the wing, and a precise finish from McGowan ensured Gwalia’s third league win of the season, and sit in fourth place after five games.
Swindon continued their strong start to the season last weekend, beating Marine Academy, with an Annie Colston brace securing maximum points.
Last Meeting
Despite meeting in pre-season, the last competitive meeting between the sides was back in November in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup First Round, as Gwalia secured a place in the second round with a 4-1 win at Newport Stadium.
Ellie Sargent gave Gwalia the advantage after eight minutes, but only five minutes later Tori St Clair equalised for the Robins.
Cori Williams-Mills scored from 12 yards to make it 2-1 after 20 minutes, before Casi Gregson made it 3-1 a minute later.
Gregson got her brace just before the hour mark to secure Gwalia’s place in the second round with a tie against Bridgwater United.
