Yeovil Town Women made history by reaching the Adobe Women’s FA Cup First Round proper for the first time since their reformation, following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over eight-time winners Southampton Women.

The match began evenly, with both sides creating early opportunities. In the 7th minute, Abbie Carslake played a through ball to Chloe Davenport, but the attack failed to materialise. Southampton came close within the first 10 minutes as well, with Holly Humphreys’ shot being deflected wide.

It was Zoe Ball who broke the deadlock for Yeovil, firing a stunning strike past Vallis in the 35th minute. The Southampton keeper could only watch as the ball flew into the net, giving the Glovers a well-deserved lead. Despite a late free-kick from Southampton, Yeovil held on to their advantage going into the break.

Southampton came out strongly in the second half, determined to find an equaliser. Holly Humphreys nearly levelled the score immediately, her shot bouncing off the crossbar and sparing Charlotte Johnson in the Yeovil goal. Shortly after, Daisy Evans picked up a yellow card for a foul.

The game truly came alive in the final 10 minutes. After Johnson made a crucial save, the resulting corner led to Southampton’s Izzy Conti finding the back of the net to equalise. Yeovil’s situation worsened when Daisy Evans received a second yellow card, leaving them to play the remainder of the match with 10 players.

With the score level at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the tie was decided by penalties.

Yeovil got off to a perfect start in the shootout, with Terri Will and Niamh Nicholls converting their penalties. A miss and a save from Southampton gave the Glovers a two-goal advantage. Although Emily Hall missed her spot-kick and Manisha Kaur converted for Southampton, Yeovil remained composed. Charlotte Johnson and Abbie Carslake both scored to secure the victory, sending Yeovil to the First Round proper for the first time since their reformation.