Page 3 - Women's Soccer Scene Issue No 4 2020-21

The announcement of a second lockdown starting this week means that once again, the
majority of women’s footballers will see their season being paused. As things stand, clubs
and players will not be allowed to train or play matches until at least December 2nd.
After having held talks with the government, the Football Association issued the
following statement:
“Ahead of the upcoming national lockdown, The Football Association is working
with the UK government, clubs and key stakeholders to continue the Barclays FA
Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship seasons under the elite sport
guidance and protocols.
“Our number one priority remains the safety and welfare of everyone involved in
our game. A special thanks to all women’s football fans for their ongoing support during
these challenging times.
“Whilst the Barclays FA WSL and FA Women’s Championship will continue,
‘non-elite’ football, which includes Tiers 3-7 of the Women’s Football Pyramid, the
Regional NLS Feeder Leagues, the Barclays FA WSL Academy League, FA Girls Regional
Talent Clubs, indoor and outdoor grassroots fixtures and all training, is to be paused
during this period. as a result of the new UK Government restrictions.
“Further updates on fixtures and dates for the 2020-21 Vitality Women’s FA Cup
will follow in due course.”
This means that once again, Women’s Soccer Scene will pause production during
the course of the lockdown and will return to publication once everything starts up again.
The website and blog site will continue to operate during this period.
Therefore, in the meantime, we wish everybody to take care, stay safe, and we
will see you on the other side. We’ll be back!

Sunday’s Vitality Women’s FA Cup Final between holders Manchester City and Everton
was the 50th since the inaugural showpiece in 1971, and trailblazers of the competition
joined current players and fans in a video to mark the occasion.
The video has been produced to highlight the growth of the competition and to
celebrate those who have played in and supported it since its infancy.
The first season of the competition in 1970-71 saw 71 entrants placed in eight
geographical groups and included some teams from both Scotland and Wales.
Southampton beat Scottish side Stewarton 4-1 in a Final played at the Crystal Palace
National Recreation Centre in London.
Those featured in the video include Pat Chapman, a winner of the competition
with Southampton, who scored six goals in the 1978 final in an 8-2 over Queens Park
Rangers.
Former England internationals Wendy Owen, Julie Hemsley and Karen Carney
– all players who have graced the competition and played their part in its growth – also
feature and pass on their celebratory messages.
As well as those who have played in past competitions, players from this
Sunday’s Final have also contributed, as well as fans of Manchester City and Everton,
and youngsters who will no doubt have their own dreams of playing at Wembley in the
future.
A record 376 teams entered the competition for the 2020-21 season, which
reached the Third Qualifying Round stage last Sunday.
Issue no. 4 - 5 November 2020 news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk