Sunderland Ladies' campaign ends with penalty heartbreak in the FA Cup

Sunderland Ladies saw their competitive campaign brought to an end on Sunday afternoon after a penalty shootout defeat at Burnley Women.

By Phil Smith

Published 11th Apr 2021, 16:59 BST

Burnley will now now face Manchester United in the fourth round of the FA Cup after goalkeeper Lauren Bracewell saved three Sunderland penalties.

The two teams played out a tense but open 0-0 draw over 120 minutes, with Bracewell twice denying Emily Scarr in the early moments of extra time.

Both sides had their chances in normal time but it was Burnley who were able to hold their nerve from the penalty spot, eventually running out 3-1 winners.

Mel Reay's side saw their league campaign curtailed for the second season in succession last month, and as it stands the FA have said that they will not promote any teams to the second tier.

Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman has said that the new regime are committed to getting Reay's side back to the Championship as soon as possible.

Burnley Kristjaan Speakman