Extra-time glory for Grecians

Exeter City Women battled through challenging weather and a determined Worthing side to secure a hard-fought 3-1 victory in extra time, earning a place in the FA Cup Fourth Round for only the fifth time in their history.

From the outset, the Grecians dominated possession and created a flurry of chances. Sarah Stacey and Sophie Gillies were thwarted repeatedly by Worthing goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear, whose stellar performance kept the first half goalless despite Exeter’s relentless pressure.

As Exeter pushed forward, Worthing found opportunities on the counterattack, but Mollie Taylor and Bow Jackson held firm at the back. Despite several promising moments, including a close-range effort by Ishbel Zuurmond and a blocked header by Taylor, Exeter went into the break frustrated and without a goal.

The second half continued in the same vein, with Exeter pressing high. However, it was Worthing who broke the deadlock in the 56th minute. Sophie Humphrey flicked Georgia Tibble’s precise corner past goalkeeper Liv Giles, giving the visitors a surprising lead.

Exeter responded with urgency. Zuurmond’s dynamic run set up Gillies to level the score in the 70th minute, her persistence finally paying off after several earlier chances. The hosts pushed for a winner in normal time but were repeatedly denied by Dolbear and the resilient Worthing defence.

With the match level at full-time, extra time saw Exeter finally break through. Amber Pollock’s incisive run and shot in the 91st minute led to a rebound, which Stacey calmly converted to put the Grecians ahead.

Worthing came close to equalizing, hitting the crossbar and narrowly missing the target, but Exeter sealed their victory in the dying moments. Gillies capitalized on tired Worthing legs, racing clear to slot the ball past Dolbear in the 118th minute.

Abbie Britton’s side showed resilience and composure in a fiercely contested cup tie. They now await Monday evening’s draw, where a potential clash with a Super League opponent could be on the cards.

Final Score: Exeter City Women 3–1 Worthing Women

Goals:

• Exeter: Gillies (70', 118'), Stacey (91')
• Worthing: Humphrey (56')

Exeter City Women demonstrated their determination to progress, and this spirited victory sets them up for an exciting Fourth Round encounter. Check ticket availability here.