Kidderminster Harriers Women comprehensively put aside Redditch United 4-0 on Sunday, to reach the First Round proper where they will host Port Vale, on Sunday November 3.

Photo courtesy of Clivejonespr (x)
Goals from Chiara Stokes, Sophie Levick and a brace from Mia Badland sealed the Harriers’ place in the next round. However it was not a flawless day for Kiddy, as goalkeeper Ellie-Mae Locke had to be replaced 20 minutes in due to injury, which forced left back Ruby Hill to go in goal. Remarkably, she kept a clean sheet as Redditch failed to trouble her.
Harriers forward Eloise Harris had high praise for her team mate taking the goalkeeping responsibilities, stating, “She seems to have taken the role of sub goalie! She’s hard as nails, and really helped us out in a difficult moment by keeping a clean sheet!”
The 17-year old was delighted for her side to secure their place in the hat, where teams from the Women’s National League Northern/Southern Premier Division (Third Tier) enter the competition.
“It feels great, it’s exciting for me coming from a reserves league to be involved in such a big competition, with such a great squad!
“We didn’t put the on the strongest of performances and we know that. It definitely helped to show moments of quality all over the pitch, to secure a good lead and see the game off.” Harris stated.
Harris was part of the Reserves set up last season at Cheltenham Town Women, where she won the 2023/24 Reserve Player of the Year for the Reserve South West Division. She joined the Worcestershire side who play in the West Midlands Regional Women’s Football League. (Fifth Tier)
Since arriving at Kidderminster, Harris has netted six goals, and has settled into life at the club well, in what is only her second full season in Women’s Football.
“I’m really happy with how my season has gone so far, all the girls have been great, and the staff have helped me develop so much already.
“It’s been good to get on the scoresheet across multiple games now, hoping to carry this on now and keeping consistency up!” Harris said.
Kiddy have started the season fairly well under manager Andy Fisher, with three wins and a loss, which leaves them sitting fourth. Harris hoped that this run, along with a famous run in the FA Cup, will leave them in good stead come the end of the campaign.
She stated, “Our main objective is to grow the club, its’ reputation, and ultimately, to keep winning games. We have created a great culture, and we’re just looking to build on this.”
Lastly, before the FA Cup Draw was made, Harris was quizzed on how beneficial a home draw would be.
She stated, “It makes it very exciting with all the bigger clubs coming into it, an opportunity to show our quality.
“A home draw with the potential of playing at Aggborough for such a significant game would be massive, and i’m sure we could put on a great display with some good numbers in attendance to help us along.” Harris concluded.