Notts County leave it late to seal Semi-Final berth

Sunday 27 Apr 2014
Jess Clarke (left) scored Notts County's second 15 minutes from time

Two late goals helped FA WSL leaders Notts County overcome Southern Division Portsmouth to book an FA Women’s Cup Semi-Final with Everton.

Rick Passmoor’s side made the brighter start as Jess Clarke called Pompey goalkeeper Sadie Blakely into action in the opening moments.

The England forward had her shot tipped around the post and Scotland defender Rachel Corsie had a header from the subsequent corner cleared off the line, while Dunia Susi and Caitlin Friend both went close before half-time.

County started the second half well, too, and Clarke once again came close to breaking the deadlock, only to see her shot cleared off the line by Tiffany Taylor.

The hosts had their chances as well, though, as Amy Quinn’s powerful shot was well saved by Amy Turner.

But County captain Sophie Bradley eventually put her side ahead on 72 minutes, heading home Sophie Walton’s corner.

And the Semi-Final place was sealed just three minutes later as Clarke raced on to a through ball to fire past Blakely.

Notts County will now meet 2010 winners Everton on Sunday 11 May for a place in The Final.

By FA Staff