Friends turn Rivals in FA WNL Cup Final
Two former teammates will go head-to-head on the touchline as Plymouth Argyle Women face AFC Bournemouth Women in the FA Women’s National League Cup Final on March 28, 2026, at Loftus Road.
Managers Marie Hourihan and Helen Bleazard, once teammates at Chelsea, now find themselves preparing to compete for silverware and promotion ambitions, which add even more edge to the encounter.
Bleazard was quick to congratulate Hourihan when Plymouth reached the final, but now the focus shifts fully to competition.
“I’ve got nothing but respect for Marie… she’s very direct, very firm with it and you give her the ultimate respect with that.”
Both sides are already familiar with each other, having battled in the Southern Premier Division, with Plymouth recently securing a late 2-1 win over Bournemouth.
Hourihan reflected on their shared history and mutual understanding:
“There’s a very good connection between us… she’s done a phenomenal job. Our views on the game are quite similar.”
Beyond the rivalry, the final also highlights the growing presence of women in coaching, with two female managers leading their teams on a major stage for the second consecutive year.
“Visibility is key… the more female coaches in high-profile positions, the better for the game.”
Both managers have impressed this season. Hourihan has transformed Plymouth into promotion contenders, while Bleazard has guided Bournemouth strongly after stepping into management just before the campaign began.
Despite the respect between them, both are clear on the objective.
“You’re playing in finals to win… that’s what our focus has to be.”
Friendship will take a back seat when the match kicks off. With a trophy on the line, only one will come out on top.
