Centre-half Bannon will lead her team out in Monday's final

Sunderland captain Stephanie Bannon has called on her team-mates to maintain their confidence ahead of Monday's FA Cup final against Arsenal.

The ladies' bullish win against Chelsea in the semis booked their place in the final at Derby's Pride Park and Bannon is hoping for a repeat performance.

"If we go in there with belief then you never know," she told BBC Newcastle.

"They are the best women's team around and we'll respect that fact but we won't fear them one bit."

Arsenal are one of the most successful women's teams in the game, with a string of honours at both domestic and European level, and a number of internationals within their ranks.

However Bannon believes the intensity of the cup tie could be a leveller when it comes down to the game.

"Everyone's buzzing around the training ground and we can't wait to play now," she said.

"Arsenal are Arsenal at the end of the day, you just play against them and beat them.

"It's going to be something that I've never experienced before and it'll be a very proud moment for me."

Live - WFAC: Sunderland v Arsenal

BBC Newcastle will have full match commentary of the FA Women's Cup final from Derby County's Pride Park stadium on Monday, 4 May.

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