It was a rare rest for Aaliyah Charles in midweek as the Magpies saw off the Combined Counties League Women’s Cup challenge of Fleet Town Women with a 5-0 victory in Hampshire (Chloe Chapman, Ines Cipriano and Izzy Stockton (3) the goalscorers), United’s midfield maestro rested for the game having started the most matches for Dave Kitson’s MUWFC this season.
The previous Wednesday the former London Bees ace had captained the Magpies for the first time in a useful goalless draw at Abingdon United the previous Wednesday, which was an honour she clearly relished. Reflecting on that opportunity Aaliyah said: “In terms of being captain, I was quite nervous. Sim does an amazing job so I had to try and match that! But I was equally very happy and the team’s reaction was another reminder as to how close and special this group is. I had to be a lot more vocal than normal, but I think I stepped up well!”
Recalling the night in Abingdon Aaliyah added: “I think the girls did really well. It’s always hard playing against an aggressive team like Abingdon, but I think we adjusted well to the pitch and their style of play. We played some really good football and I loved our bravery to keep the ball on the floor and try to play, that’s when we’re at our best.”
Aaliyah is sure to be in Kitson’s plans on Sunday afternoon as United make their longest journey of the season, a 400-mile round trip to Playmouth-based Marine Academy. The hosts are close to achieving safety in their first ever season in the FA Women’s National League and on the basis of the reverse fixture at York Road in November – MAP taking a point from a topsy-turvy 2-2 draw – the match should be another exciting one with Maidenhead going into the fixture on the back of three consecutive well-earned clean sheets.
Kick off at Ivybridge Town FC, PL21 9ES will be at 2pm. Adult admission is priced at £5, Under 16s pay £1. We will have coverage of the match via our X account.
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