SOUTHAMPTON Women’s FC are rekindling some of their glory days as they chase a league and cup double.

The eight time FA Cup winners have gone from glory to struggle and are now on the way up again.

At one stage the club found themselves fighting to remain in the Southern Region League while struggling to muster 11 players each week.

However, the arrival of Fran Alonso – who was on the first team staff at Saints under Ronald Koeman - and his coaching team in December 2014 has transformed the club.

Southampton Women’s FC now has first and reserve teams who have not lost a league game all season.

The first team progressed through to the second round of the Women’s FA Cup this year, beating both Shanklin Ladies and Swindon on the way, both of whom play in the Women’s Premier League.

As champions of the SRWFL Div 1, the firsts were promoted to the SRWFL Premier League this season and received an extended sponsorship from Stratland Estates, the main club sponsors.

The reserves, meanwhile, currently top the Hampshire County Women’s Division 1, with 11 straight wins and a goal difference of 47.

If things go to plan the club will be playing in the FA Women’s Premier League (South West Div 1) next season - only two steps away from the Women’s SuperLeague.

They are also in the final of the Hampshire Women’s FA Cup, taking on Portsmouth on March 15.

Barry Derham, club chairman, said: “We’ve got a talented squad, great coaches and all three teams are having a good season. We are targeting promotion but we take each game as it comes as there’s a long way to go to the end of the season.”

As the club has grown and focussed on the quality of its coaching and training, trials for a new under-16 squad were held this season to help the future of the club and women’s football in the community. Although Alonso was whisked up to Everton by Koeman, he remains as Technical Director and continues to work weekly with the coaches on training and match development.

Head Coach Simon Parker has a clear vision. “As a club we are working hard to develop our squad as a team, but also as individual players,” he reflected.

“It’s important to keep learning as well as enjoying your football. All the hard work in training has led to some great team performances and as we grow the club, the focus on quality coaching and teamwork will continue to be critical to our success”.

If you fancy supporting the ladies first team in their push for promotion, they play their home games at AFC Totton on Sundays.

The club would also welcome approaches from any local businesses interested in sponsoring the teams next season.

You can also go along and show your support at the cup final next Wednesday. The game is being held at Westleigh Park, the home of Havant & Waterlooville, and kicks off at 7.45pm. Tickets are £5 adults, £2 concessions and free for under-10s.