The first round (proper) of the FA Cup saw Palace Ladies travel to regular and always testing opponents MK Dons writes chairman Richard Spokes.
The all FA Women’s Premier League tie was always going to be a tricky away draw for the Eagles who made the journey with a strong squad including a returning Freya Holdaway.
Palace started in slower than normal fashion and appeared a little below par, as MK made the early running with efforts from Cudone and Holland. The Eagles showed signs of life in the eleventh minute when Northern Ireland international Pammy McRoberts nearly deceived the MK keeper, who just managed to avert the danger. It was the turn of Rochelle Shakes in the sixteenth minute when a last ditch tackle prevented an attempt on goal. Four minutes later, the lively Gemma Bryan broke through from the halfway line with skill and pace and shot just over the bar.
Nerves were settled just before the half hour after fine work from McRoberts who crossed for Alma Donohoe to shoot on goal. Having not connected well enough with the first attempt, she connected perfectly with the second effort to put Palace a goal up. The visitors were put back under some regular pressure for the remainder of the first half with captain Katy Morris leading the Palace rear guard action.
Following an ‘open, honest and no holds barred‘ half time team talk from manager Dean Davenport, Palace came out looking a more cohesive and productive unit for the second period. Almost immediately the lively Donohoe went close from a Shakes cross who then turned from provider to threat when she was fouled in the area and earned a penalty. A delay was incurred whilst the injured Shakes was replaced by Nicha Dyett, but this did not affect Holdaway who cooly fired home from the spot.
The next ten minutes saw Palace turn the heat up, most often through Bryan who was denied by the hosts keeper. MK did respond on occasions and were kept at bay by the agile and confident Chanell Yardley.
Palace struck again and made the game safe when Bryan turned provider and Donohoe found space again and bagged her second, and the Palace third. Thwarted by some tenacious defending by the hosts, Palace and Bryan in particular, pushed for a fourth which ultimately came with less that ten minutes to play. Bryan latched on to a through ball and scored the goal that her performance deserved. Both teams who at times provided some high class football throughout the game, had late attempts but with no addition to the scoreline.
Speaking after the comprehensive win, Dean Davenport commented;
I am really pleased with the result, against a recently resurgent MK Dons team. To be honest, we were not great in the first half and did well to get in, one up at half time. I was pretty blunt with the girls, who took it in board and put in a good team performance in the second half. We moved the ball well and were dominant across most areas. After losing, albeit against higher placed opposition, last week, it was essential for the girls to take the positives of that game and keep our rhythm going.
Davenport touched on the magic of the FA Cup is not only for the men’s game;
We have had recent good runs in the FA Cup, and we are keen to do the club and the Palace fans proud. Being in the second round, with goals and a clean sheet is very pleasing. However, we must keep our concentration as we head straight back into league action next week.
Speaking exclusively to TEB following the FA Cup second round draw on Monday, Dean was in good spirits;
We have been drawn at home against West Ham United which is a tough tie, with them playing in the league we are working so hard to be a part of next season. However, after a very positive showing against high flying Coventry from the same league, we should carry good confidence into the game. The home advantage will be good, and although West Ham will bring good support, we know we can rely on the Palace faithful to be our extra player, if needed.
Dean was also keen to add;
As well as the cup draw for our first team this week, we have also seen our reserve side reach the semi-final of the League Cup. This a terrific achievement by all involved but is a tough one being drawn away to Bradford City. It is great for the Palace brand as a whole, for us to play tough competition from all over the country and I know the girls will do us proud. The game is at the end of February, so we have plenty of time to plan and save up for a road trip.
Palace Ladies would like to thank everyone who continues to support the efforts being made. We really are South London and proud.
Next game: Bedford at home on Sunday 13th December 2015. Kick off 2pm. Entry £3. U16s free. Bar and facilities open from 12.30pm.
