Norton Stockton Ancients Women edge Fylde LFC Women 2-0 in FA Women’s Cup

Norton Stockton Ancients Women secured a 2-0 home victory over Fylde LFC Women in the FA Women’s Cup on Sunday, 25 October 2026, combining a solid defensive display with two well-worked goals. Bethany Cole opened the scoring in the first half before Hannah Price added a second after the break to send the home side through.

Fylde LFC Women had spells of possession and forced a number of corners, but they struggled to break down a compact and organised Norton defence. The home side’s goalkeeper Mia Richardson was alert when called upon, and Norton’s ability to defend their box proved decisive in a tight cup tie.

Match overview

The game was played at a fast tempo early on, with both sides pressing aggressively. Norton took the lead midway through the first half and then managed the game intelligently, denying Fylde space in central areas. The second goal arrived in the second half and gave Norton breathing room, allowing them to see out the closing stages with maturity.

Key moments

• 14th minute: Fylde’s first meaningful effort is saved comfortably by Mia Richardson.
• 31st minute: Norton take the lead when Bethany Cole turns inside the box and finishes into the far corner.
• 57th minute: Richardson makes a strong save to deny Fylde an equaliser from a free-kick.
• 69th minute: Substitute Hannah Price doubles Norton’s lead with a close-range finish after a goalmouth scramble.
• 86th minute: Norton’s defence clears a late corner to preserve the clean sheet.

Tactical story

Norton set up with a disciplined back four and two holding midfielders, making it difficult for Fylde to find pockets of space between the lines. The home side were happy to concede possession in harmless areas and relied on quick breaks through the channels. Fylde’s build-up play was patient but lacked penetration, and their set pieces were well defended by a Norton side that remained focused until the final whistle.

Standout players

Cole’s opening goal was the highlight of a hard-working forward display, while Price made an instant impact from the bench. Richardson’s handling and shot-stopping gave Norton a strong foundation at the back. For Fylde, their central midfielder worked tirelessly to keep the team moving forward, but clear chances were rare.

What the result means

Norton Stockton Ancients Women move into the next round with a clean sheet and a performance built on organisation and efficiency. Fylde LFC Women will be frustrated by their lack of cutting edge but can take some encouragement from their possession and set-piece threat. The FA Women’s Cup result rewards Norton’s game plan and keeps their cup run alive.