Shaun Howes' Norwich City Women return to cup action this weekend in the quarterfinal of the Harrod Sports Women's Cup against King's Lynn Town.
We chatted to the women's team head coach to discuss last week's result and to look ahead to Sunday's match.
Before we put last week’s result behind us, what did you make of our overall performance?
It was a very disappointing first half but the way the girls stuck together and showed up in the second half was really encouraging. They could have felt sorry for themselves and hidden in the second half, but they showed their determination and why this season has been as positive as it has been so far, which they can be extremely proud of. Yes, the result was disappointing but their reaction to the first half was what we want to take from the game.
How does the squad make sure to keep their heads up going into this game following the defeat?
I don’t think this will be an issue, the girls know we let ourselves down in the first half, but they are a really resilient group and will learn from the setback and will go into today’s game with the same belief and determination they always do.
We’re back amongst the cup action this weekend and host Kings Lynn Town. What are we expecting from Sunday’s performance?
We know it will be a really difficult game, but we also know that when we maintain our high standards, we can play some really good football and be a threat to any side in and around the fourth tier. We are expecting a really good crowd, so I hope both teams do themselves proud and it is a really entertaining cup fixture for the spectators, but obviously we are determined to regain the County Cup this season.
We last played the visitors during the semi-final of the 2020/21 Harrod Sport Women Cup, claiming a 7-0 victory. Both squads have changed quite a lot since then, so do you think we need to make sure we aren’t complacent Sunday?
Definitely, we are fully aware of what can happen if you become complacent and take the game for granted but I am certain this won’t be the case. I think Sunday’s result and first half will only make the girls more determined and hungry to put in a big performance to show everyone it wasn’t us. Every time we challenge them to solve a problem, they find a way and today will be no different.
Norwich City Women play their home games at The Nest on Holt Road in Horsford. Tickets are available here in advance up to a certain date and on the door on the day.