Exeter City Women enter the FA Cup this weekend, as they face Cardiff City Ladies at Speeds Meadow (Kick Off 1pm) in a highly anticipated First Round tie.
As has been the case in their last two fixtures, Cardiff will provide the Grecians with higher level opposition, the Welsh side play in the National League Premier South, one level above City. James Fishlock's team have had a mixed season to date.
Their campaign began with three defeats in the first four games, although two home wins in the next three have helped ease any relegation concerns. In recent weeks, a late winner at Chichester and Kelsey was followed by two disappointing defeats, a heavy loss at home to Oxford United and a humbling at Southampton Women.
Though the defeat in Hampshire, a team who play in City's league, was by a five goal to one scoreline, the teams were level before a Harriet Lambe Red card, with only half an hour played, changed the game.
Ellie Sargent has been the star performer in front of goal for Cardiff this season, she has five goals, after signing in the summer, with Olivia Thompson and Cori Williams scoring four and three respectively.
The teams have met recently, a friendly fixture prior to the Devon County Cup Final ended with the Grecians coming out on top 4-3. Goals from Jess Sandland, Phoebe Baker, Mollie Taylor and Esme Kilburn-Thompson gave City a 4-1 lead, before the visitors rallied to set up a tight finish.
Abbie Britton and Aaron Wakley's side have had a successful run in cup competitions in recent weeks, progressing in both the Devon County Cup and the League Cup Plate, however the FA Cup is always an extra special occasion.
The Grecians have not made it through to Round Two since 2014 so this will provide a big motivation to do so this weekend, with the added incentive of again showing their capability to compete against higher level opposition.