News / Sport
Bristol Academy set for famous Barcelona tie
Bristol Academy are preparing to make history tonight as they face European giants Barcelona in the women’s Champions League as Ashton Gate.
The Vixens won 1-0, thanks to an own goal, in the first leg of their round of 16 tie in the Spanish city on Saturday, overcoming Barca’s formidable unbeaten home record which stretched back some 55 matches.
The club is hoping for a packed crowd at Ashton Gate tonight as the club aim for the quarter finals of Europe’s premier women’s football tournament.
Both manager and captain are under no illusions as to the scale of the task ahead, despite the slender advantage.
Manager Dave Edmondson said ahead of the tie: “The own goal gives us a precarious but potentially important 1-0 lead going into this second leg.
“I hope we can get a large crowd of vocal and passionate Bristolians to drive the Vixens on in our mission to reach the quarter finals. It will be a tough task against a very good Barcelona side so every little bit of backing will be much appreciated.”
Vixens captain Jemma Rose added: “There are a lot of positives to take from the [first leg] game in terms of our defensive discipline and mentality. However, although we won the game 1-0, Barcelona are an extremely talented team in terms of their movement and ability on the ball, therefore we must create more chances after winning the ball back.
“We all train every day to be involved in these types of matches and I know the girls are extremely excited to walk out at Ashton Gate on Thursday evening and we are more than capable of finishing the job.”
Kick-off today is 7.30pm, click here to buy tickets priced at £10 for adults (concessions for children, under 22s and senior citizens).
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
