Sheffield United: Women set their sights on a landmark win at Bramall Lane

Lauren Cresswell says Sheffield United Women will be looking to make a statement during Sunday's meeting with Aston Villa.
Sheffield United Women play at Bramall Lane on SundaySheffield United Women play at Bramall Lane on Sunday
Sheffield United Women play at Bramall Lane on Sunday

The match, their first outing at Bramall Lane since being awarded a place in the FA Championship, is a repeat of last month's Continental Cup tie which Carla Ward's side won 2-1. 

Despite entering the fixture searching for a debut win in the rebranded competition, Cresswell insisted repeating that result over the visitors from the Midlands would kick-start United's season.

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"I'm really excited and hopefully we get a good crowd," the defender said. "It should be a good occasion.

"We've played Villa before so we'll be looking to build on that result."

Danielle Cox and Tania Marsden were both on target when United faced Villa at Boldmere, with the latter scoring the decisive goal after Nadine Hanssen had equalised. Despite suffering four defeats since, culminating in a 3-0 loss to big-spending Manchester United, Cresswell is convinced Ward's squad are showing signs of progress.

"I thought we were positive with how we played there," she continued. "We created chances."

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Ward could have a full strength squad at her disposal for this weekend's clash (kick-off 2pm), with Ellie Fletcher United's only doubt after limping-off against their namesakes from Manchester. Beth Merrick will be hoping to start after moving to South Yorkshire from Villa over the summer.

"They set up well and caused us a few problems," Cresswell said. "But we'll be looking to do a job again."