Alissa Down previews Saltdean United v Brentford Women | OneFootball

Alissa Down says a win would be “the perfect start to the New Year” as Brentford take on London South East Premier Division side Saltdean United in the League Cup on Sunday at Hill Park (kick-off 2.30pm GMT).

Parking is limited and only available for coaches, managers and officials due to ongoing stadium works. Free parking is available in the surrounding streets.

Tickets are available on the gate for £3.

“We will be looking to make a statement on Sunday, we know that Saltdean will be a strong side as they play in the division above, but we have belief that we can cause them a lot of problems,” said Down.

“This team have proved that they can hang with the sides in higher divisions and since my arrival it’s been easy to see why. The standard of training and the intensity we play at means we are a hard team for anyone to beat.”

Down made her Brentford debut in the side’s 7-1 win over Actonians Reserves in the final game of 2024.

The midfielder was introduced from the bench on 70 minutes and marked her Bees bow with a long-range strike which flew into the top corner.

Speaking on her debut, Down said: “I was eager to get onto the field and when I did I just wanted to impress as much as possible, I ended up scoring a goal but more importantly, helped the side to the three points.

“Everyone has been really welcoming, and the team spirit is amazing here, I’m really looking forward to what the future will hold.”

Last time out

The Bees cruised to a 7-1 victory over Actonians Reserves in their final game of the calendar year.

Karleigh Osborne's side found themselves a goal down inside the opening 15 minutes but showed incredible character to fire seven past Actonians.

Ashley Cheatley netted another hat-trick, with Caroline Englehard, Samantha Read, Habeebat Gbajabiamila and debutant Down also on the scoresheet.

About Saltdean United

Saltdean ply their trade in the London South East Premier, the fifth tier of women's football and the same division as Fulham, who the Bees faced in the second round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup last month.

The Brighton-based side currently sit fourth in the league table, winning nine of their seven games so far.

Georgia Bridges, Molly Hill and Nikita Whinnett are all a threat having each recorded seven goals this campaign.

Match coverage

The club will provide updates of the match against Saltdean on social media, as well as a match report on the official website and our new official app.