The FA and SSE today launched the SSE Women’s FA Cup Player of the Round Award – an exciting initiative that will recognise exceptional performance in the competition on a round-by-round basis.
To celebrate the announcement, the outstanding performances from the first three rounds of the competition have been recognised, and players from Tottenham Hotspur, Charlton Athletic and Long Eaton United have been presented with their respective awards.
Precious Hamilton of Long Eaton starred in the biggest result of the first round which saw her side beat FA Women’s Premier League Midlands Division One outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-2, a team a division above Long Eaton.
Hamilton scored two goals in the upset, including a cool finish from the penalty spot.
Leah Rawle from Tottenham was selected following an outstanding performance in Spurs’ second round away trip to FA Women’s Premier League (FA WPL) Division One South West promotion hopefuls Swindon Town, scoring twice in the process.
Chelsea are the SSE Women's FA Cup holders
On receiving her award, she said: “I’m thrilled. It was actually my birthday weekend and to score two goals in the SSE Women’s FA Cup alongside a great team performance made it extra special.”
Gemma Shepherd from Charlton shone in the third round, netting five times including a hat-trick inside the first 15 minutes, to send her side on the way to a 10-0 win over Newcastle United.
Alan Young, SSE managing director of corporate affairs said: “There is an extraordinary level of talent already involved in the sport so it is important that we recognise and celebrate these individuals.
“In doing so, we can help create role models to inspire the next generation of women’s footballers.”
The award, which is voted for by a panel of women’s football experts including BBC Sport’s Jo Currie, Sport Magazine’s Sarah Shephard, women’s football expert Tony Leighton and the Offside Rule’s Lynsey Hooper, will continue round-by-round until the highly anticipated Final takes place at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 14 May.
Thanks to The FA's partnership with SSE, all children will be able to attend The Final for free.
Adult tickets are priced £15 and group bookings and charter standard discounts are also available.
Tickets for The Final are on sale now via TheFA.com/Tickets or by calling 0844 826 2010.
