Durham Women travel to Aston Villa with both sides still in with a chance of qualifying for the knockout stages of the FA Women’s Continental Tyres Cup.
The Blues remain unbeaten in the competition this season, but that record will be put to the test against top tier opposition in Carla Ward’s side on Wednesday, December 13 (6pm kick-off).
And Beth Hepple is under no illusions as to the challenge that awaits at The Poundland Bescot Stadium.
“It’ll be a huge test,” said the midfleder.
“We played them last season and it was a really difficult game.
“If we win tomorrow night we could progress through so it’s a really big game for both clubs – and it’s one we’re ready for.”
Durham will be roared on by another strong travelling contingent – and Hepple and her teammates are keen to repay the faith of their supporters as they prepare to embark on a 370-mile round-trip on a weeknight.
“Every game we’ve got a brilliant backing.
“We always want to put a performance on for them, it’s what they deserve – so hopefully we can do that.”
The trip to the Midlands comes days after Hepple made her first start of the campaign in the 5-0 win over West Brom.
And having also registered an assist for Sarah Wilson’s opener, it was a pleasing day all round for the 27-year-old.
“I was over the moon,” she admitted.
“It’s obviously been a difficult few months for me personally so it’s really nice to be back with the girls and on the pitch.
“It was a tough game and West Brom made it really difficult for us. We knew we would have to be patient and I think we were just that.
“We reaped the rewards in the second half and five different goal-scorers is great.”
Turning the focus to Wednesday evening, and it will be the first time that Durham have faced Barclays Women’s Super League opposition this term – some Hepple is relishing.
She said: “It pushes you and that’s who you want to be played – the best players in the country.
“All the girls are really excited and we’re looking forward to it.”
And it won’t be the last time that Durham face a top tier side this term, either – after the Adobe Women’s FA Cup draw paired the Blues with Manchester City.
The Citizens are set to visit the North East on the weekend of January 14 (exact date TBC), in a game that is already attracting a great deal of attention.
“It’s massive,” added Hepple on the tie.
“It’ll be our first game back in the New Year and to pack out the ground will be important.
“It’s exciting to be at home and and playing against top players is always exciting.”
Full ticket details for the Manchester City tie will be confirmed in due course – sign-up for our mailing list HERE to be the first to hear about when they will go on sale.
This game will also be included for 2023/24 Season Ticket and 2023/24 Half Season Ticket Holders – get your Half Season Ticket HERE.