SOUTHEND United ladies team skipper Abbie Rex is proud to have led the Shrimpers into the first round of the Women’s FA Cup for the first time ever.

Blues face a tough looking test at Hashtag United on Sunday.

But Rex is pleased to have already made history after Lewis Dodds’ side worked their way through three qualifying round clashes.

“I am beyond proud of the girls and we have had a confident cup run so far,” said Rex.

“We have scored plenty of goals and we are looking to keep the momentum going into the first round.

“We made our debut in the FA Cup last season and we have already improved on our previous cup run.

“We are continuing to make history and that is an achievement that everyone in the team is extremely proud of.”

Blues, who are in the Premier Division of the Essex County Womens League, have beaten Rayleigh Town, Garston Ladies and Frontiers Ladies to make it into the first round proper.

But Rex knows Hashtag will provide a far sterner challenge at Canvey Island’s Park Lane ground on Sunday.

“Hashtag United are going to be a very tough opponent,” said Rex.

“They have fantastic players who can play great football and I think they will be tricky to breakdown.

“But we are a confident team and we have proved that we are absolutely up for the challenge.

“We will give 100 per cent until the final whistle blows and who doesn’t love an underdog?”

Hashtag are three levels above the Shrimpers but Rex believes Southend will embrace the contest.

“We are going to enjoy every minute and soak up the atmosphere on the day,” said Rex.

“The girls have a good relationship on and off the pitch and I believe this is reflected in the standard of football we are playing this year.

“We are looking forward to Sunday and it would be great for people to come down and support us and be a part of our FA Cup journey.”

Sunday's match kicks off at 1pm.