AFC Bournemouth Women could win promotion to the Women’s National League Southern Premier Division for the first time in their history on Sunday when they face Bristol Rovers at the Vitality Stadium.
It comes after the Cherries beat second-placed Moneyfields 2-1 on Wednesday night, after a dramatic late penalty save from 19-year-old goalkeeper Erin Foley.
Bournemouth are unbeaten in the division for more than two years and are the only team in the Women’s National League not to drop a point so far this season.
Steve Cuss’ side lost out on promotion after a final day draw to Exeter City last season, despite being invincible.
We don’t want to be second, we have to be first.
Speaking at a press conference today about last season’s disappointment, Cuss said: “It was the most difficult day of my managerial career.
“It sticks with me, and it has been in the back of the players’ minds, but all credit goes to them for bouncing back and putting us in the position we are now.
“The squad we have assembled since last summer has made a difference. We don’t want to be second, we have to be first.”
AFC Bournemouth Women have already impressed at the Vitality this season when they breezed past Swindon Town 4-0 in November in front of more than 6,000 fans.
Sunday promises to be another bumper occasion, but fifth-placed Bristol Rovers will be a test for the Cherries, despite the Gas Girls being winless in their last three.
More than 5,000 tickets had already been sold for the clash before the victory over Moneyfields.
I just want success for them – this is their moment.
On what is at stake, Cuss said: “We always say one game at a time but we’re human, we can look at the league table, but we don’t feel like it’s job done.
“But you do start to think towards four o’clock on Sunday afternoon. It is going to be a great occasion if we can get the result and hopefully we can lift that trophy.
“I’m privileged to manage this team, and I just want success for them – this is their moment.”
Captain Abby Jones is hoping to guide the Cherries to their second promotion in her 13 years at the club.
The 21-year-old has already played at the Vitality on numerous occasions and hopes to use the fans’ energy to get Bournemouth over the line.
She said: “The fans are so important for us, it gives us an extra boost for the game. Hopefully we can put on a good performance.
“Full focus on Sunday. We know what is at stake for us, it is such an important occasion, but we have so put on a performance to get that achievement.”
AFC Bournemouth Women host Bristol Rovers at the Vitality on Sunday. Kick-off is at 2pm.
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