Hashtag Women target another big-name cup scalp

Hashtag United celebrate following last season's cup triumph against Newcastle at Kenilworth Road

Hashtag United like knocking off the big names.

They came from behind to beat Newcastle United 2-1 to win last season's FA Women's National League Cup, which is contested by third and fourth-tier clubs.

And after seeing off Derby County and Ipswich Town in this year's competition, they now have Nottingham Forest in their sights in this weekend's semi-finals as they look to lift the trophy for the second year running.

"For the club to make it to another cup final would be a massive statement - I think many thought it might have been a bit of luck last season," Hashtag forward Sammy Rowlands told BBC Sport.

"But for us to be in the position we are right now, sitting top of the league, and two semi-finals to play for, I think that speaks volumes, and proves that we are here to compete."

The other semi-final will be in the Essex Cup after Hashtag beat their own reserve side 13-1 last weekend, with Rowlands scoring four of the goals.

They are under no illusion that Sunday's tie will be far tougher but it is a game between equals with Hashtag top of the WNL Southern Premier and Forest topping the Northern Premier table, both with 32 points.

"Personally, I don't know much about Forest - the most I know is that they have a full-time set-up," said Rowlands.

"The whole story surrounding the tie gives us Newcastle vibes. We didn't change for Newcastle, so there's no chance we're changing for Forest.

"We have a 'never say die' attitude and approach every game with no fear."

Rowlands won the Women's FA Cup Golden Boot as the top scorer in the competition in 2022-23 with 11 goals.

And she also provided the assist for Phoebe Williams to score the winner in last season's FA WNL Cup final, played at Luton Town's Kenilworth Road ground.

"I haven't been on the scoresheet as frequently this season, and as a striker, of course, this knocks your confidence," Rowlands added.

"I still believe I play an impactful role for the team and I'm hoping 2025 brings more joy. I'm currently five [goals] in two [games] so hopefully things are on the up."

Walsall will stage this year's final in March at their Poundland Bescot Stadium home, when Hashtag or Forest will face the winners of the second semi-final between Plymouth Argyle and Stoke City.

"We're doing fantastic so far this season and I'm so proud of the girls, and to be a part of this club," Rowlands said.

"There's been a lot of movement in the squad so far this season, we've actually had a high turnover of players.

"We've had some great talent sadly leave us. But the additions we've gained who have managed to adapt to our work-rate and ethos have 100% made a positive impact to the team."

Can Hashtag breach tight Forest defence?

Sammy Rowlands (left) scored 30 goals for Hashtag when they won promotion in 2022-23

Hashtag will need to find a way through a Forest defence that has only conceded just four goals in 12 league games this season, and only one in the FA WNL Cup on their way to the last four.

And apart from Rowlands, Hashtag will look to Holly Turner, who has 14 goals in 2024-25 - only two players have more in the Southern Premier.

Rowlands said: "We also don't concede many goals and our goalkeeper Frankie Angel is up there in the race for the Golden Glove award, so I think it will be a tight contest for sure.

"We have goalscorers throughout the squad and we'd hope to unlock their defence by doing what we do best and each player showing up on the day and getting the job done.

"We've definitely had a tricky run in the competition so far. Luckily, it's nothing that we aren't used to. We thrive and play our best football when we're considered the underdogs or playing against these big-name clubs.

"There's also the added incentive of defending our title. I think that's what's given us the extra lift this time around."