Borough striker Dalya Byrnes (right) in action during the defeat to Maidenhead [Darren Woolley Photography]

GIANT-killings are hard to come by in the Women’s FA Cup, especially when it’s a tier seven side going up against a squad that plays three levels higher.

On Sunday afternoon, those odds proved just too long for Islington Borough as they were beaten 7-0 by a Maidenhead United side managed by former Reading and Cambridge United striker Dave Kitson.

Borough, who play in the Premier Division of the Greater London Women’s League, have shown plenty of mettle during this season’s run in the competition, winning two of their three earlier rounds against East Thurrock Community Women and Berkhamsted Ladies on penalties.

They displayed that fortitude once again in the previous round when they won 1-0 away to Brighton-based Montpelier Villa, who play in tier six.

Borough have shown plenty of mettle during this season’s run in the FA Cup [Darren Woolley Photography]

After the final whistle went on their Women’s FA Cup campaign for another season, the overriding message from manger Michael Kelly was crystal clear.

He said: “The result is disappointing, but the players gave everything and can be really proud. Three wins on the road to reach this stage was a fantastic achievement, and facing a tier four side was always going to be a challenge.

“We take the positives, learn from today, and get back to focusing on the league.

“Despite the result, what a journey it has been. Three wins on the road against East Thurrock, Berkham­sted and tier six opposition Montpelier Villa saw us reach the Third Round Qualif­ying – one of just seven tier seven clubs to make it this far.

“A huge thank-you to our players, coaches, families and supporters for making this FA Cup run so special.”

Islington’s run in the FA Cup means that they haven’t actually got their league campaign up and running yet. However, that will all change this weekend when they are due to travel to early leaders South London.