Clapton CFC Women’s First Team produced a superb performance to knock previously unbeaten Histon out of the Women’s FA Cup. The 1–0 win books our place in the third qualifying round where we are away again for the 12th time out of 17 FA Cup ties in our history – at AFC Sudbury.
The tie was always going to be a tall order: despite both sides playing at the same level, Histon have a 100% record this season and lost only 2 games last season. The first half was a tight, tactical battle. Histon shaded the early chances, but Clapton’s defence held firm. Ella Bowles made a sharp stop low to her right, while at the other end Maria Mendonca and Leigha Bradding-Butler both went close.
The second half followed a similar pattern: even exchanges, relentless midfield work, and both sides probing for a breakthrough. Histon looked dangerous from set pieces, but Clapton always carried a threat on the counter. In the 83rd minute, the deadlock was finally broken. A defensive slip let Emily Link through one-on-one, and she finished coolly into the corner.
Moments later, Clapton were awarded a penalty for a trip on Marta Boiro just inside the area, but Link’s effort cannoned off the crossbar.
The hosts rallied with a ffrantic late push, but the defence stood resolute, including crucial blocks from Li Steiner and Eva Van Der Vliet.
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