Sunday marks the first test of Ryan Perks’ side’s pre-season programme as United prepare for their return to the FA Women’s National League following a remarkable campaign that saw them lift multiple trophies and earn widespread plaudits.
The Gulls travel to the nation’s capital to take on QPR, who finished a respectable sixth in the FA Women’s National League Division One South East last season. It is the same level of the women’s football pyramid that United will be competing at during the 2026/27 campaign, albeit in the Division One South West.
The R’s head into the new season under new management and with several new additions to their squad. In contrast, United arrive full of confidence, retaining the core of last season’s title-winning squad alongside a settled coaching team that enjoyed such success during the previous campaign.
One player who could be in contention to make her United debut this Sunday is new signing Sarah Stacey. The forward joins from neighbours Exeter City, bringing valuable experience at this level of the game, as well as a proven eye for goal, having previously claimed a Golden Boot award.
Sunday’s fixture represents the first opportunity for Perks’ side to build momentum ahead of what promises to be a busy and demanding pre-season schedule, with preparations firmly underway for life back in the FA Women’s National League.
