We’re up for the cup, says boss Mitchell as Brighouse Town Women prepare to take on Huddersfield in FA Cup

Two goals from substitute Ami Woodruff either side of a Drew Greene strike propelled Brighouse Town Women to a 3-0 victory over Newcastle United last weekend to set-up the Huddersfield tie.

After a goalless 90 minutes, the Orange Army broke the deadlock early on in the first half of extra time when Woodruff got behind the defence to fire home. 

Moments later a mix-up in the Newcastle backline allowed player of the match Drew Greene to nip in and find the corner to make it 2-0.  

And with the final kick of the match, Woodruff patiently worked her way through the centre of defence before firing into the roof of the net.

“It’s always good to get to the third round, it’s something we always aspire to do, that’s our main objective and then anything that comes after that is a bit of a bonus,” said Mitchell

“We’re playing against a team in the division above who were top of the league before it was null and void, so it makes the challenge hard, but it’s one we’re more than up for.”

It is not the first time Brighouse have embarked on a good run in the competition, having previously got to the fourth round against Sunderland in 2018 and reached the third round in 2017 against Everton and last season against Barnsley.

“Without sounding too big-headed I think we’re already on the map within the women’s game,” said Mitchell.

“I don’t Huddersfield will take us lightly, I don’t think they’ll be thinking they’ve already won it and that they can beat us comfortably.

“I think they’ll be quietly worried that an upset could be caused. We’re more than capable of winning the game, and even if we did go into the next round I’d be confident of progressing again, with the level of ability we’ve got.

“We’re not taking anything for granted but we’re confident that we can compete with any team from our division and the division above.

“We’ve got a decent pedigree in the competition but we know we’ve got to be at our best to make sure we get through.”

When asked what his message will be to his team on the day, Mitchell said: “Just play without fear, I don’t think there’s any pressure on us with us being a team from a division below.

“Also, use the momentum from Sunday’s win and the fact we’ve been able to have 120 minutes of real competitive football, hopefully that’ll give us the edge.

“Leave everything on the pitch I suppose, and make sure you don’t have any regrets.”