Alissa Down previews Saltdean United v Brentford Women | OneFootball

Alissa Down says Brentford Women will be "looking to make a statement" when they take on London South East Premier Division side Saltdean United in the League Cup on Sunday at Bedfont Sports Club (3pm kick-off).

The Bees have enjoyed multiple fixtures going up against higher ranked opponents this season, wins against London Seaward, Sport London E Benfica and Ascot United some of the highlights.

Sunday presents another chance for Karleigh Osborne's side to challenge themselves against a tier-five side.

“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 first appearance 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 an 8-1 victory over Comets in their first game of 2025, booking their spot in the next round of the Capital Cup.

Osborne's side started strongly and didn't let up, Chloe Logie scoring five of the team's six goals in the opening 45 minutes.

She scored once more in the second half, Nikki Woods and Paula Holguin joining her on the scoresheet in an impressive display from the Bees.

About Saltdean United

Saltdean ply their trade in the London South East Premier Division, the fifth tier of women's football. The Brighton-based side currently sit fourth in the league table, with seven wins, a draw and a loss to their name so far.

Saltdean sit 10 points behind table leaders Dartford, however have four games to make up in the league as they push for promotion.

The side haven't played a game so far in 2025, postponements and walkovers meaning their last clash came on 15 December last year.

Georgia Bridges, Molly Hill and Nikita Whinnett have been a threat so far this campaign, each scoring seven goals coming into Sunday.

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.