The last time we met AFC Portchester was at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium in a pre-season friendly, when the away side defeated a heavily rotated Worthing side 3-2. Without a doubt, the team will want their revenge, especially with so much more at stake.

Jesus Cordon’s side have already knocked out Maidenhead United and Abingdon United in the competition this season and will be looking to reach the next round instead of fifth tier side AFC Portchester.

JC on the fixture: “We have had a good run in the cup, beaten two teams in our league while playing well and deserving it.”

The Spaniard and his players head into this fixture  off the back of two impressive cup wins, a well-fought 2-1 win away at Maidenhead courtesy of a 92nd minute crasher by Megan Gates earned Worthing a place in the First Round proper of the cup at home to Abingdon United. An emphatic 4-1 win, helped by a Lauren Amerena brace, sets the Rebels up for a chance to earn back-to-back third- round appearances.

Tomorrow’s visitors are yet to win a game since the victory in the previous round, and after losing their last league game, they have a great opportunity to get back on track and restore their confidence in achieving results.

“We have to be in a positive mindset; the team is training well and very motivated,” stated JC.

THE OPPOSITION

AFC Portchester have been in fine form, currently boasting a six-match winning streak. They progressed into the second round by smashing Gloucester City 6-2 at home. Playing in the Southern Region Women’s Football League, they are currently fourth, but only one point off the top of the table.

JC on the opposition: “They have been performing very well, winning games. We have been watching how they play, we know some of the players and that they are a good team.”

ONE TO WATCH:

Gemma Hillier is the one to watch in the opposition. The 38-year-old officially made 282 appearances, scoring 92 goals during a 17-year period she spent at Portsmouth. She was also the first woman to be inducted into the Pompey Hall of Fame. Her experience and leadership will provide a stern test in the midfield battle.

FORM GUIDE

AFC Portchester | W4 D2 L1 | Pos: 4th

 Form: LWWWW

MD8: Fleet Town 2-4 AFC Portchester

MD7: AFC Portchester 2-1 Sholing

MD6: Southampton Women 2-2 AFC Portchester

MD5: AFC Portchester 2-2 Oxford City

MD4: Woodley United P-P AFC Portchester