Oxford United Ladies aim to spread the word with big cup tie (From Herald Series)

Oxford United Ladies aim to spread the word with big cup tie

9:00am Thursday 21st February 2013 in Sport By David Pritchard, Chief Sports Reporter covering Oxford United. Follow us on twitter: @oxfordmailoufc. Call me on 01865 425458

Oxford United Ladies prepare for the big game against Newcastle, with coach Richard Blackmore (left)

OXFORD United Ladies want to use their debut at the Kassam Stadium this weekend as a springboard to improve women’s football across the county.

The in-form side are into the FA Women’s Cup fourth round for the first time after stunning Charlton Athletic, who play two divisions higher, in the previous round.

A home tie against Newcastle United Ladies is the reward, which has been switched from their usual home at United’s training ground to the Kassam on Sunday.

Manager Richard Blackmore is looking to make the most of the chance and urged people to come out and back his side.

He said: “It’s brilliant to be playing at the Kassam.

“We’re hoping to get some good exposure for Oxford United and for women’s football in Oxfordshire in general.

“There are teams like Launton and Chinnor who have been around for a lot longer than us, but year-in, year-out they can struggle for players.

“We’re hoping to get around 500 people down to watch, which would be very pleasing.

“I’d encourage people to come down and see it, even if they haven’t been to a women’s game before – there might be some budding players out there who are inspired.

“It’s not as fast or furious as a men’s game, but the technical ability has improved so much in the last five or six years.”

A win would put the U’s into the fifth round draw, when the eight elite Women’s Super League sides join the fray.

Admission for the 1pm kick-off is £5 for adults, £3 concessions and can be bought on the gate.