The AFC Bournemouth Women’s team made history on 28 March 2026 by securing their first-ever FA Women’s National League Cup title. The squad defeated Plymouth Argyle 1-0 in the final held at MATRADE Loftus Road in West London, marking a significant milestone for the club.
The decisive moment of the match arrived just six minutes into play when winger Kenni Thompson scored directly from a corner kick. The goal, often referred to as an Olimpico, proved to be the only score of the game. Goalkeeper Katie Scadding was instrumental in preserving the lead, making several crucial second-half saves, including a vital effort to deny a cross from Plymouth’s Olivia Francis.
This victory served as a response to a league defeat just six days earlier, where Bournemouth lost 2-1 to the same opponents. Defender Jessica Hennessy, who was named player of the match, earned her second consecutive cup title after winning the competition with Nottingham Forest last season.
The achievement arrives during a period of growth for the club under head coach Helen Bleazard. Earlier in March, Bleazard became the team’s first-ever full-time head coach after signing a three-year contract. Currently sitting third in the league table, the team remains in contention for promotion as they continue their inaugural season in the third tier of women’s football.
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