Preview | Argyle Women v Nottingham Forest (H)

This Sunday, 14 January, the Theatre of Greens will play host to the Adobe Women’s FA Cup as Argyle Women take on Nottingham Forest for a place in the fifth round. Kick-off at Home Park is at 1pm. 

A tight game against Oxford United in the previous round at Coach Road ended in victory for the Greens on penalties, with the game finishing 1-1 after 90 minutes, and 2-2 after 120 minutes. Forest were drawn out of the hat to set up a fascinating fourth-round tie in front of a bumper Home Park crowd. 

Speaking to Argyle TV, manager Ryan Perks highlighted the importance of the Green Army at Home Park. “Being at Home Park adds to the occasion," he said. "We're looking forward to it. We always seem to do well in the FA Cup. There's something about it; the girls turn up and rise to the occasion, so they’re really looking forward to coming back to Home Park. Hopefully, we get a big crowd in that get behind the team.”

Nottingham Forest’s Adobe Women’s FA Cup run started similarly to Argyle's, as a dominant 7-0 victory at home to Sheffield FC comfortably sealed their spot in the second round. Sporting Khalsa became the second team to fall to The Garibaldis before a 3-1 victory over Boldmere St. Michaels secured the Home Park clash.

Forest play at the same level as Argyle. They are third in the Northern Premier Division of the FA Women's National League. When questioned about how the FA Cup battle will play out, Perks explained his belief in his squad: “Forest are near the top of the table and have had a very good start to the domestic campaign.

“We know a little bit about each other and about the way we both play. They're a physical side who work hard, so we're going to have to match their work rate on Sunday and make sure we can execute the game plan.

“I think if we do that, we can cause a sort of mini upset. I know they're same level, but if you look at the league tables, they're probably slightly ahead in their development of where we are, but I've got confidence in all our players, in this team, that we can go out and get the result on Sunday.”

Argyle’s previous match at Home Park did not fail to entertain the crowd of over 2,000, who watched the Greens fire 13 goals past Ilminster Town Ladies, in a thrilling first-round opener. Since then, Perks’ side has gone from strength to strength, and he believes the fans are starting to see what this team are capable of achieving. 

“I think for those who came to the Ilminster game, seeing us score lots of goals and what the environment is, gives a real taste for what to expect from women's football this weekend,” he said. “Two teams, both at a similar level, striving to improve both on and off the pitch. I think it's just going to be a tightly fought contest, so, get yourself along and behind the team, and hopefully push us over the line. It'll be great to see lots of fans at the game again.

"I've got confidence in all our players, in this team, that we can go out and get the result on Sunday.”

The game will be held at Home Park, Plymouth. Kick-off is at 1pm, tickets cost £7 for adults, £5 for concessions and £3 for Under 18s. If you cannot make it to the game, updates are available on social media, @ArgyleWFC on X.