Rick Passmore says Notts County Ladies must improve ahead of Arsenal opener

Passmore was speaking after watching his side struggle to a 2-1 victory of Premier League National Division side Coventry City Ladies in the FA Cup fifth round on Sunday.

County face Arsenal - the most successful side in women’s football with 40 major trophies to their name, in the season opener on Wednesday knowing they must improve to get something from the game.

Passmore, who did not select a number of key players including England international Ellen White, was left concerned by his side’s slow tempo throughout and failure to convert possession into goals.

“Coventry were well organised and had good form coming into the match,” he said. “We made hard work of it today and showed that we are not quite there yet, but the main thing was to get through to the next round.

“I think the occasion got to some of the players and there were some nerves out there.

“The players need to learn from this and to stick to my plans, especially when it comes to playing games at a higher tempo.

“We play better against teams that are not looking to close the game down. We do not respond as well to games of chess like that.

“At times we created some good openings and found space, but we have to make the most of these openings and make the right decision. Too many times we played the wrong ball and made the wrong decision

“We have to improve and we will get better. The Arsenal game is going to be a wonderful occasion for this club and a great advert for women’s football.”

Notts County v Arsenal kicks off at Meadow Lane at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced £6 for adults and £3 concessions.