Burnley Women

Welcome to the Mike Garlick Burnley FC News fan blog page. A dramatic extra time winner from the penalty spot earned Burnley FC Women a place in the FA Cup third round next weekend. Nic Worthington kept her cool late in the day to step up and score the only goal of a nervy clash with Fylde Women at Padiham.

And as a result of the momentous win - in the first game played since the Women officially came under the club banner - Matt Bee’s side will host divisional rivals Sunderland AFC Ladies next weekend for the right to face Manchester United in round four. 

Delighted Burnley Manager Matt Bee said: “Today’s performance was built on a clear work ethic, desire and togetherness.

“Irrespective of having months off due to lockdown, these are the things that I expect the team to have and I’m happy that the players executed the game plan to the letter and everyone played their part.”

The Clarets, back in action for the first time since November, started strongly and Fylde had a big let off as Worthington fed Evie Priestley, whose chip over the advancing keeper hit the post.

However, the Coasters also posed problems and Clarets keeper Lauren Bracewell saved well from Faye McCoy, before Bethany Donoghue slid in front of goal but was inches short of the target.

In the closing minutes of the first half, the Clarets regained composure with chances created by Lizzy Hamer and Katie Thomas. The second half of normal time proved equally tight, with chances for both sides at a premium, as Katie Thomas twice went close for the hosts before Faye McCoy almost won it for Fylde at the death, when her header smacked the crossbar. But with extra time looking unlikely to separate the Lancashire rivals and penalties looming, Priestley weas upended in the box and Worthington stepped up to spark joy in the home ranks.

Bee added: “We have to work hard this week to get ready for Sunday. Sunderland will be a tough game so it will be a challenge.

“However, we’re ready to work hard again this week to go again on Sunday and hopefully put in another positive performance in the competition.”

Check back soon for more updates!