PLAYING in the FA Cup is always a particular thrill for those sides lower down the football pyramid and on Sunday, Worcester City Women will be aiming to book their place in the first-round proper. 

City host Anstey Nomads Women at Sixways on Sunday afternoon (2PM KO) in the final round of qualifying in the Women's FA Cup. 

Whilst promotion from the West Midlands Regional Women's Football League remains the main goal this season, City skipper Fassnidge admits there is still something unique and special about playing in one of the most prestigious competitions in the world. 

"It's games like these that as a player, you want to play," she said. "In the FA Cup, you never know what can happen and for most clubs at grassroots, you want to go as far as you can, see which big clubs you face."

But the FA Cup is not just about romance and heritage, it is a competition that can provide substantial funds for clubs, especially those lower down the pyramid.

This year, there has been an increase in the prize money and winning on Sunday would pocket City a sizeable £4000 to add to the £3000 they received from beating Walsall Wood in the second round of qualifying.

"We have to talk about the financial aspect, more money bumps up the club's pot," added Fassnidge.

"At this level, the money is huge and clubs can get a huge boost from that money to use within the club; help improve facilities, equipment and a whole range of different things.

"The financial aspect is a huge one and you have to take it into account."

And you would give City a good chance of progressing to the first-round and swelling the club's coffers as a result.

Anstey play at the same level as Worcester, but in the East Division of the Midlands Regional Women's Football League.

They have played four games so far in the league campaign and have only won one of those, losing twice and drawing the other.

Compare that to City in the West Division; a team that are unbeaten and sit top of the league.

But Fassnidge knows not to take anything for granted this weekend in front of what is likely to be another big crowd at their new Sixways home. 

"We're so fortunate to play at Sixways, it is such a fantastic facility," she said. 

"We like to call it the 'Wembley of Worcester', but it does put a target on our backs.

"I am sure they (Anstey) would love to beat us so we have to be switched on, have to stay focussed.

"We don’t know much about them, but that’s one of the perks of the FA Cup, challenge yourself to play teams from anywhere. It won't be an easy game, you never know what will happen."