THE Women’s FA Cup will resume later this month assuming the government doesn’t perform another lockdown U-turn, the FA announced today.

The 2020-21 competition was halted in January as a third national lockdown commenced, with “non-elite” football being suspended.

That was with one first-round and 17 second-round ties still to be played. Teams from the Women’s Super League and Championship enter the competition in round four.

The announcement of the resumption follows the government last week setting out its “road map” for the easing of coronavirus restrictions, which includes the return of grassroots football from March 29.

The FA has given dates — subject to ongoing government guidance — for the completion of the first and second rounds as March 31 and April 4 respectively.

The third round is then to be played on April 11, and the fourth another seven days after that.

The draws for the third and fourth rounds have been made, and the latter will see holders Manchester City host fellow WSL side Aston Villa.

Current WSL leaders and champions Chelsea also have a home tie, against Championship side London City Lionesses.

The FA said conversations were ongoing with regard to a date for the fifth round, which will be completed this season.

And it added: “Following the fifth round, up to three rounds, including the final held at Wembley Stadium, can be completed next season, with dates to be confirmed.”

The 2019-20 quarter-finals, semi-finals and final all took place earlier this season having been rescheduled due to the pandemic. City beat Everton 3-1 after extra-time in the final on November 1.