CAFC Women vs South London – FA Cup Preview
Carshalton get their competitive season underway on Sunday afternoon as they travel to face South London FC in the First Qualifying Round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup.
In just their second season in the women’s football pyramid, the Robins are making their debut in the Women’s FA Cup. While this marks their first appearance in the competition, they’re not here just to make up the numbers – the team is determined to make a strong run and put the club firmly on the map.
Last season’s FA Cup was won by Chelsea against Manchester United at Wembley Stadium in front of over 74,000 fans. While a trip to Wembley may still be some way off, it’s a sign of Carshalton’s progress that they are now competing in the same tournament as European champions Arsenal and multiple-time WSL winners Chelsea.
An away tie on grass against fellow seventh-tier side South London FC will be a tough opening test, but after a strong end to pre-season, Carshalton head into the match full of confidence, hopeful of securing a result and progressing to the next round.
South London FC
South London FC play in the same tier as Carshalton – the seventh tier of the women’s football pyramid – competing in the Premier Division of the Greater London Women’s Football League.
Last season, they finished third out of ten, with an impressive record of 10 wins, 3 draws and 5 losses from 18 matches. With a competitive division this year featuring teams such as AFC Croydon, Leyton Orient, and Luton Town Development, it’s shaping up to be another tightly contested campaign. South London will be aiming to get off to a positive start with a win in the FA Cup.
Carshalton Athletic
After a mixed start to pre-season, the Robins have hit their stride in recent matches, scoring 23 goals and conceding just 2 across friendlies against Chessington & Hook, Tooting Bec, and Tonbridge Angels.
Sunday’s 11–1 win over Tonbridge – another seventh-tier side who finished second in their league last season – was particularly impressive. With eight pre-season matches under their belt and plenty of minutes shared across the squad, Carshalton are well-prepared and full of energy ahead of their competitive opener.
Team News
Aaron Lamont had a full squad available for the final pre-season game against Tonbridge Angels, and competition for places is fierce. Young forwards Honey Dulley and Taylor McCrea both came off the bench to score, giving the manager a welcome selection headache.
In the past few days, Carshalton officially announced the signings of Morgan Parnell, Bianca Underhill, Dee Badley, and Maisie Ward – all of whom impressed during pre-season and are expected to feature on Sunday.
Manager’s View
Manager Aaron Lamont shared his excitement ahead of the team’s FA Cup debut:
“It’s a credit to the players who helped us become so successful last season. Their hard work and performances have not only brought us to this point but also helped us attract new players, which we hope will push us on massively this season. To be involved in the FA Cup is honestly incredible and I cannot wait for the journey ahead.”
Several members of the squad bring vital FA Cup experience, having featured in the competition with previous clubs. Their know-how will be key in guiding Carshalton’s younger talent through what is sure to be a highly competitive fixture.
Captain’s View
Club captain Georgie Edwards, who brings FA Cup experience from previous teams, echoed the excitement within the squad:
“To be back in the FA Cup is such a buzz – it’s a competition I’ve loved being part of with previous clubs, and to now represent Carshalton in it for the first time is something special. There’s a real belief in this group that we can go on a run, turn a few heads, and make the club proud. We’ve already come so far in such a short time – and honestly, it feels like the journey’s only just getting started.”
Pre-Match Analysis
With Carshalton finishing second and South London FC third in their respective divisions last season, this promises to be a closely fought contest. And with no extra time in the early rounds of the Women’s FA Cup, a draw at full-time would mean penalties – setting up a potentially dramatic conclusion to Sunday’s fixture.
Match Details
Date: Sunday 7th September, 2025
Opposition: South London FC
Venue: The Griffin Sports Club, 12 Dulwich Village, Dulwich, SE21 7AL
Kickoff: 3pm
Admission: FREE
