ADOBE WOMEN’S FA CUP PREVIEW: BURNLEY V BIRMINGHAM CITY

Claret women host Blues in fourth round cup action

Focus turns back to the Adobe Women’s FA Cup for Rebecca Sawiuk on Sunday as Burnley FC Women host Birmingham City at the Lancashire FA County Ground, Leyland (KO 2pm).

It will be a tough test for the Clarets with the visitors currently sitting top of the Women’s Championship, one division above Burnley, and the Blues have won seven of their opening 12 league fixtures this season.

However, following a 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers Women last time out, Sawiuk’s side will be full of confidence heading into the encounter against the higher tier opposition.

After a lengthy break away from action, the Clarets got straight back to a winning routine last weekend against a strong Wolves side at the New Bucks Head Stadium.

Despite going into the break a goal behind due to Beth Merrick’s curling effort, a first Clarets goal from Isabella Reidford and a venomous long-range strike from Leah Embley secured the comeback win.

Burnley secured the fourth round tie with an 11-0 win over Coundon Court Ladies in December. Aimee Kelly, Brenna McPartlan and Laura Elford all bagged hat-tricks and a brace from Millie Ravening saw the euphoric victory send them straight through to the next round.

As for the visitors, they are yet to be in action so far this year after their last league game saw them secure a 3-0 win over Sunderland AFC Women, leaving Darren Carter’s side top of the league table.

The result against the Black Cats made it six wins in a row for the Blues, with goals from Lily Agg and Jade Moore as well as an own goal proving the difference in mid-December.

The Blues did however feature in a friendly fixture last weekend in preparation for this Sunday’s cup tie, with a clash with Women’s Super League side Leicester City ending in a 2-2 draw.

Sunday’s game will take place at the Lancashire FA County Ground, Leyland, with kick-off at 2pm.

Admission is £5 for adults, £2 for concessions and please note there will be no free entry or discount for Burnley FC season ticket holders for this FA Cup fixture.

For those who can’t attend the game will be streamed live on TikTok @BurnleyOfficial and Clarets+.

Full coverage can also be found on X @BurnleyFCWomen, Instagram @BurnleyFCWomen, and a match report will follow on burnleyfc.com.