Match Preview – FGR vs AFC St Austell Lades (2pm – 01/05/22)

FGR Women close out their 2021/22 league campaign this Sunday as they host title chasing AFC St Austell at Chalford for a 2pm kick off.

Last Time Out For FGR

FGR Women played in front of 2,247 fans in a memorable night under the lights at the Memorial Stadium, in a friendly fixture against Bristol Rovers Ladies. FGR took an early lead through Boyd before the Gas Girls equalised in the final 20 minutes before going on to win gain a 3-1 home win. The result probably doesn’t reflect how close the match was and all FGR players put in good performances, in the match which was part of the day’s double header between the two clubs.

FGR’s previous league fixture was the impressive 3-0 win over Ilminster Town in one of their strongest performances this season and they will hope to put in another good performance this weekend.

The Opposition

AFC St Austell Ladies arrive at FGR knowing that a win will crown them champions and clinch promotion, whilst a draw or defeat will see Ilminster Town lift the title. It makes for an exciting day as we also expect some Ilminster supporters and players to come and watch the fixture. In theory AFC St Austell could also drop to third place if Sherborne win their final fixture against Bishops Lydeard.

AFC St Austell have been impressive throughout this season, falling to only their first league defeat of the season last week in a 3-2 loss away to Sherborne. The Zebras took a 3-0 lead into half time before St Austell came out firing to bring the game back to 3-2 with goals from Solloway and Whitmore.

The Lillywhites have also had a good season in cup competitions, and they reached the 2nd round proper of the FA Cup, where they lost 4-2 to Plymouth Argyle, who play in The FA Women’s National League which is the third tier of women’s football. It was a game which deservedly earned AFC St Austell plaudits from Plymouth.

Ones To Watch

Lucy Solloway who wears number 11 will be a threat going forward, having scored 19 goals in 20 appearances. Solloway is still 4th in the FA Cup Golden Boot race for this season, ahead of players like Lauren Hemp of Manchester City and England.

But it is AFC St Austell number 9 Charlotte Whitmore who is the Cornish side’s top scorer with 31 goals from 21 appearances and she will need to be watched closely on Sunday if FGR are to stop her from adding to her tally. Whitmore sits 2rd in the golden boot race in the league behind RWBTL’s Libby Davies.

Goalkeeper Maisie Frickleton will also be hoping to maintain AFC St Austell’s impressive defensive record at the other end of the pitch, whilst ever present Morgan Gibson Grist and Chevonne Johanning play important roles for the Cornish team.

Did you know?

AFC St Austell Ladies only formed in time for the 19/20 season and have made quick progress up to the 5th tier of women’s football and the side who play at Poltair Park are now hoping to secure the title and promotion to continue their rapid rise.

Looking Further Ahead

This is the last FGR game of the season – so please come down, cheer on the team and show your support and thank the coaches and players for their commitment during the current campaign.

Next season FGR Women will remain in this league, having secured their 5th place position. Congratulations to the all involved.