With their 21-20 win against Trafford, Liverpool Handball Club women’s team have progressed to the EHA National Cup Final for the first time in 40 years.
The team struggled in league competition early in the season but came back strong after the Christmas break, winning three of their last six games.
Despite this late push, it would not be enough with the team finishing fifth in the Women’s Northern Premier League.
However, during this same period they have seen great success in the National Cup competition.
1st Round
In the first round, Liverpool’s women came up against familiar rivals NEM Hawks, with one win for each team.
The Hawks won 23-14 in October with Liverpool coming out on top 23-18 when the two met for the second time in January.
Both teams were, therefore, familiar with each other before their cup match-up but it would be Liverpool moving on to the next round.
After a tough fought game, Liverpool took advantage of a strong second half, progressing to the quarterfinals with a 23-18 win.
Quarter Finals
Liverpool travelled to Northampton to face a shorthanded Oxford team in the quarter finals.
Oxford suffered injuries to their starting goalkeeper and centre early in the first half, and without any substitutes had to have players out of position for most of the game.
On top of their opponent’s injury troubles, Liverpool played a strong game, making a statement with a 31-17 win before the semi finals.
Semi Finals
The semi finals saw Liverpool take on another familiar side in Trafford.
It appeared that Trafford had the advantage in this match-up as they won their league game 22-17.
This familiarity would be evident in a close fought semi final game where neither team could gain a significant lead.
As the close game came to its conclusion, Liverpool’s keeper and Player of the Match, Hannah Kempster, made a last second save to confirm Liverpool’s 21-20 victory.
Speaking after the game, Kempster said: “Our performances have dramatically improved as the season has gone on this year.
“It’s felt like the momentum has been building for us going into these important final few games.”
Finals Preview
With their win against Trafford, Liverpool secure their spot in the National Cup final against Loughborough.
Loughborough and Liverpool have played each other twice this season already, with Loughborough winning 34-26 in both encounters.
This is the first final the team has made in 40 years, and they are looking forward to the opportunity to make history for the club.
The team are aware of the challenge that faces them in the final but have said they believe they can beat anyone if they focus on their own game.
Looking towards the finals match-up, Hannah Kempster said: “the team will go into the final with the same mentality we have been for our past few games.
“Anyone is beatable and as they say anything can happen in the cup.”
The final will be played on neutral turf at Oldham Leisure Centre on April 26.
