We travelled to South Shields to sit down with the first FA Cup Baller of the Round, Ashley Townsend. Townsend was pivotal in their win against Halifax (who sit two tiers above) in the first round proper, scoring two goals, earning herself Player of the Match.

---

SAB: What emotions did you feel when the penalty went in and you reached the second-round proper for the first time? 

Ashley Townsend: It was one of the greatest memories that I’ve had, playing football. Just all the excitement within myself, but also the whole team. We all jumped all over each other – it was one of the greatest feelings ever. 

SAB: What was your favourite moment from the game? 

Townsend: It was obviously really fun to score those two goals within the run of play, but after that final penalty score, just that feeling of advancing for the first time in club history. 

SAB: How did you celebrate the win as a team? 

Townsend: We just danced around and everyone was hyped for the whole week. Everyone was just on like Cloud 9 – it was a great feeling. 

SAB: What does playing in the FA Cup mean to you? 

Townsend: It’s such a cool experience. It’s something that I’ve witnessed from being in America but being able to be here and be a part of it, it’s so different than anything I’ve been able to play in.  

SAB: How important is it for teams like South Shields to have exposure and coverage by the media in the earlier rounds? 

Townsend: It shows the beauty of the FA Cup right. The little teams can make it to high levels and it’s part of that drive and you want to climb the ladder. 

SAB: How do you stay composed in big games? Any tips for younger players? 

Townsend: For big games, I honestly find myself being able to just be locked in and it’s just a great opportunity to prove to yourself and others, what value you can bring to a football game.  

SAB: What’s your favorite footballing memory? 

Townsend: It’s gotta be winning that first round proper. That was the most fun I’ve ever had in a match. 

SAB: Who comes to watch your games? Who are your biggest supporters? 

Townsend: My biggest supporters are my mum and dad. They travel hundreds and thousands of miles to watch me play. Ever since I was little, they’ve been my number one fans. 

SAB: You’re the first FA Cup Baller of the Round – how does that feel? 

Townsend: It’s such an honor and I’m so grateful for that. It wasn’t just all me. I’ve got teammates and coaches and family who have all supported me.  

God has given me the talents to be here and the opportunities. I’m just so grateful for all the support that I’ve received. 

SAB: What’s the hardest thing about being a footballer, that people on the outside might not see? 

Townsend: The higher up you go, people don’t always believe in you. And so you got to continue to believe in yourself. And then when you do have those people who believe in you, you’ve got to hold tight to them and keep climbing the ladder and fighting for what you want. 

SAB: If could change one thing about the women’s game, what would it be and why? 

Townsend: The women’s game has grown tremendously in the past decade but continuing to bring awareness to it and having it promoted to be equal to the men’s game and bring equal opportunities to women. 

Football is not a passion of just men. Girls want to play their whole lives so creating more and more opportunities for them. 

SAB: Liverpool Feds in the next round – how do you think you’re going to do? 

Townsend: That’s a great draw for us – getting a home draw. If the whole team come locked in, we’ve got a great shot at advancing and making an even greater run in history for the club. 

SAB: What’s your favorite pre and post-match snack? 

Townsend: My favorite pre match snack is a peanut butter sandwich and post-match is a chocolate milk. 

SAB: Who would be your dream FA Cup opponent? 

Townsend: Man City – it would be so cool to play against a big club like that.