It has been a successful weekend for City with our Under-18s progressing to the Premier League Cup final and our Blues sealing a spot in the FA Cup last eight at Newport on Saturday.
In Cheshunt, Nick Cushing’s side joined in on the action as we cruised through to the next round of FA Women’s Cup, with our three goals courtesy of Steph Houghton, Lauren Hemp and Gemma Bonner.
What happened
Cushing had said before the match that he wouldn’t underestimate Spurs, and within the first 15 minutes it was evident why.
The hosts were ruthless and were defending sternly, denying us at every opportunity. This was demonstrated when Nikita Parris came close twice in quick succession, first with her header – which was caught by Morgan – and second when Wynne burst into action to cut Parris short in the box before Spurs skipper, Schillaci cleared the ball well upfield.
As the pressure built, we knew bagging a goal would ease the nerves.
But one wasn’t enough for the eager Blues, so it was two in two minutes for City instead! We took the lead through Houghton who stepped up to take our free-kick after Lauren Hemp was brought down just outside the box. It was a superb effort from our skipper and prompted a huge celebration, as well as the confidence to bag another goal just minutes later.
This time, it was Hemp. The teenager lofted the ball over Morgan in beautiful fashion to double our lead moments before half-time.
Our third came after the break, when Claire Emslie’s corner soared into the box in prime position for Jen Beattie to head home, and although Morgan was able to punch the attempt away, Bonner was waiting to ensure a goal came of it.
Despite the scoreline, Tottenham continued to cause us problems and came close to pulling one back when Beckett’s free-kick looked destined for the back of the net, before Ellie Roebuck launched into action to tip the effort over the crossbar.
Then, Addision was brought down in the box, leaving Matthew Russell no other option that to point to the spot. Roebuck was called to action once again and did so in style as she punched away the penalty strike to retain her well-earned clean sheet and see City go into the hat for the sixth-round.
How we lined up
Roebuck took her place in goal shielded by a back four of Demi Stokes, Beattie, skipper Houghton and Bonner.
Keira Walsh and Jill Scott anchored in midfield, with Caroline Weir and Claire Emslie operating on the wings.
Hemp and Parris led the line upfront.
What it means
City wait to find out their last eight opponent. The draw is set to take place in the evening on Monday 18 February, and you can find out all the details right here on ManCity.com.
Up next
Next, Nick Cushing’s side return to FA Women’s Super League action as we host Everton at the Academy Stadium on Wednesday 20 February, kick-off at 7pm GMT.
