A former Weydon School pupil has made her debut for Fulham’s women’s team.

Sophia Roberts came off the bench for Fulham in their 5-0 defeat against London City Lionesses, which was shown live on BBC iPlayer.

Roberts came off the bench in the 89th minute of the fourth round Women’s FA Cup tie at Craven Cottage.

Sophia’s mother, Stephanie, was at Craven Cottage to witness her daughter’s debut.

“It was so exciting,” said Stephanie.

“Sophia found out a couple of days before the game that she was in the first-team squad.

“We were hoping she might come off the bench.

“The fact the game was at Craven Cottage was great, as Sophia got to experience playing at the stadium.

“Sophia started playing football when she was ten. She had been doing gymnastics but she wanted to do football.

“She played locally for Bourne Blades and for Beacon Hill, and had a spell at Reading before joining Fulham at the start of the season.

“Sophia is having a good season with Fulham’s under-18s, but to play for the first team was a great experience.

“Sophia is currently studying at a Chelsea Football Club sixth form academy, where she is combining her studies with training and matches.

“She loves football and is following her dream.”

Sophia completed her studies at Farnham’s Weydon School last summer.

Weydon head of PE Lucy Harper said: “Sophia is a great role model for our younger students, known for her exceptional skills on the football field during her school years and was part of the winning district team.

“Sophia was a key player in the school team, consistently showcasing her talent and dedication.

“Her recent achievement with Fulham is a testament to her hard work and passion for the sport, making her school and community proud.”