Sheffield United: Women prepare for key FA Continental League Cup clash

Sheffield United Women host Birmingham City in the The FA Women's Continental League Cup on Sunday.
Sheffield United Women's Jade PennockSheffield United Women's Jade Pennock
Sheffield United Women's Jade Pennock

The match, which takes place at Stocksbridge Park Steels' look Local Stadium (kick-off 2pm), sees Carla Ward's side make their third appearance in the competition following games against Aston Villa and Bristol City last month.

Tania Marsden's late strike saw United secure an impressive away win at Villa before they were beaten 3-1 in the south-west despite Jade Pennock's early strike.

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United made their first FA Women's Championship debut when Durham City visited South Yorkshire six days ago, slipping to a 2-0 defeat against opponents expected to challenge for a top three place this term.

United were granted membership of the revamped competition after impressing the ruling body with their infrastructure, youth development work and commitment to the game. 

They are one of only 34 clubs in England to hold an FA license, permitting them to run centres for elite girls across four different age groups. Millie Bright, Jess Sigsworth and Hannah Cain have all gone on to win international honours after progressing through United's youth system.

Towards the end of last month, it was also announced Bramall Lane will form part of the FA's bid to stage the UEFA Women's Championship in 2021.

Sheffield United's stadium, Bramall Lane, could host UEFA Championship gamesSheffield United's stadium, Bramall Lane, could host UEFA Championship games
Sheffield United's stadium, Bramall Lane, could host UEFA Championship games
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Speaking at the time, Dave McCarthy, United's operations director, said: "This is wonderful news. The development of our stadium and investment in the pitch means that we are now in a position to stage high profile matches and events which bring so much benefit to the city as well."