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Writes: Edward Perry
This weekend sees the return of The IKO EAFA Cup, with Portsmouth defending their trophy as England's Lionesses make history.
The IKO EAFA Cup is a big day in The EAFA’s calendar. This season’s competition not only promises a thrilling day of cup action on Saturday (27th July), but also heralds the arrival of a brand new team.
Excitingly, Portsmouth, Everton and Chelsea will be joined by The England Women’s National Team. Making their competitive debut in the tournament, Sam Turner’s side face stern tests ahead of the first ever Women’s World Cup in November.
England’s Lionesses are an unknown quantity to their opposition and as such, their mystery factor could count in their favour.
Shelbée Clarke and Marni Voak have IKO EAFL appearances under their belt. Marni followed Clarke’s lead as the first women to play in the league and their experience will be important to this talented team.
Shelbée Clarke in Chelsea colours - Image: @PDRPhotos
Portsmouth want to retain the trophy after last year’s success at Reaseheath College. They’re looking to add more silverware to their growing collection, having already won both IKO EAFA League Cup and FA Disability Cup honours in 2024.
The south coast outfit possess a world class frontline in Jamie Tregaskiss, TJ Yates and Matt Dean, while Che Grey produced a gorgeous curling finish in front of the FA Cup cameras last month.
Pompey will have their work cut out though, as current league champions Everton are hungry for revenge after their FA Disability Cup loss. The Amputoffees are preparing for their upcoming Champions League campaign and hope to showcase their impressive tournament pedigree this weekend.
Mark Dolan’s team are more than capable of ending Pompey’s attempt at a quadruple, with plenty of England internationals in their ranks. Rhyce Ramsden, Liam Burbridge and Jamie Oakey are another ruthless attacking force that will undoubtably trouble defenders.
Chelsea approach the competition as a young side wanting to use their progression and cause an upset. The Londoners boast solid foundations provided by England internationals Harry Ash, Keiran Lambourne and Helder Silva.
Lambourne’s distribution to his front line is something opposition teams have to be wary of in particular, as breakout stars Hafiz Suleman and Sofyan Filali have profited from his moves this season.
Saturday's fixtures, made possible by league sponsors IKO PLC UK, see the four teams facing each other in a group stage format to battle for the top spot in a quest for IKO EAFA Cup glory.
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