When she reached secondary school, Pip Wakefield took a step back from football, then five years later she re-entered the fantastic sport.

Now, she is a key member of the powerful Curzon Ashton Women’s squad, who have proved to be an unstoppable force this season.

Her journey began aged seven. Like many young girls, Pip was the only female playing amongst the boys’ teams, and this was the case for her at her first club Barr Hill JFC.

From here, she was invited to join the Manchester City ladies’ team, where she met like-minded girls who loved the beautiful game.

But then, reaching high school, she noticed her love for the sport deteriorating, and made the decision to quit football.

“My biggest regret was stopping when I got to high school. I then started playing 5-a-side at the age of 24.

“A few of the girls from 5-a-side decided to dive back into 11-a-side football for Barr Hill Ladies,” she said.

Her first season was a huge success, with the team going on to win the double.

Shortly after, Pip left the team to join Salford City Lionesses, before eventually joining Curzon Ashton.

“I’ve been at Curzon for around three years, and I love it. The group of girls we have playing for us gets stronger every season, the coaches and staff are a vital part of the success we had last season.

“The journey we’ve been on this season has been amazing. We’re heading into two finals and we’re really looking forward to both of them.

“They will be tough, but we are more than capable, and we’re focused on bringing both the cups home,” Pip said.

Recently, the Nashettes faced Salford in the Argyle North West Regional semi-final. At half time, our Curzon side were a goal ahead, but by the end the Tameside ladies were able to celebrate an admirable 4-1 victory.

Pip was the first goal scorer of the game, placing a beautiful penalty into the net.

“When we drew Salford in the semi-final, we knew it was going to be a tough one. We’ve faced them four times this season and have had the better of them three times.

“As soon as the whistle went, we put them on the back foot. We were awarded a penalty as poor Chezzy (Abi Chesworth) was clattered by their defender.

“I’ve been a regular penalty taker this season, so I felt confident taking the kick,” she said.

Returning to the pitch after half time, Curzon knew that Salford would come out with vengeance. But, with two early goals in the second half, the Ashton side felt confident with their performance and were overjoyed with their win.

To earn a place in not just one, but two cup finals in a single season is beyond inspiring, and something that the Curzon squad have worked impeccably hard for.

Possibly the most exciting upcoming game for Curzon is the Manchester FA Women’s Challenge Cup Final, where they will face Cheadle Town Stingers.

The game is set to take place on Wednesday 3 March at FC United of Manchester in Moston.

Being a local venue, Curzon are encouraging as many people as possible to get down and support them, for what will be an excellent show.

Before this, the squad have more action to contend with. This Sunday (9 April) they are set to face Darwen Women at the Tameside Stadium.

A friendly, talented, and professional squad, the Curzon Ashton team have proven to have a wonderful connection, working excellently as a team.

Having spent many years of her life involved in football, Pip would encourage girls to keep active and enjoy a sport.

“I would encourage young girls, if you have an interest in football, then go for it. Don’t give up if you have a setback or one bad game either.

“My biggest regret was stopping, and I’m so glad I re-joined again.”

Tameside is home to an array of exceptional local football clubs, all boasting incredible talent and kind people.

It’s never been a more exciting time to be involved with football, with constant developments in the sport and real trailblazers making a difference.

It’s a game that teaches you resilience, teamwork, and determination, and above all is plenty of fun.

Curzon Ashton will now look forward to their well-deserved finals, and it would be amazing to see as many Tameside fans there as possible.

🏃 Tour of Tameside 2023 🏃

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