Bedford battle to beat St Albans

Bedford rose to second place in the East Prem after a hard fought 2-1 away victory over local rivals St Albans 2's this weekend.

It was a late afternoon push back at Oaklands College and Bedford were, based on history, expecting a tough encounter. Sam Turner, a summer signing from Cambridge City made her debut and Becca Budd returned from injury whilst Martin Mason McLeod took over the match day duties from Tom Hewitt who is recovering from an operation.

The game started tensely with both sides, testing the water. St Albans moved the ball with pace but Bedford carried more intensity going forward. Bedford's front 3 pressed with discipline which, as the half wore on, started to result in more interceptions and turnovers for the maroons midfield. Emma Pinny, MOTM Beth Noble and Becky Tarrant started to see more of the ball and Bedford were threatening the tangerines goal. Kate Costin's turn and shot forced the keeper into a save before the deadlock was broken by the visitors as Tarrant's slider pass found Costin in the left channel and she cut inside the last defender before firing home.

Bedford had good shape and discipline in their defence with Ellie Priston in excellent form alongside captain Jackson and goalkeeper Leanne Sargeant only called into action on a few occasions, her best save being a high stick tip over. Towards the end of the half, Bedford enjoyed their best spell with some excellent transfers and SJ Darrington able to join in attacks down the right which helped force a penalty corner on the stroke of half time which Jackson converted straight down the middle underneath the Albans keeper.

The second half was a different type of contest... very competitive and keenly fought. St Albans began to press Bedford higher and this forced some errors in the transfer and confidence wavered. Despite the Tangerine Army, who were cheered on by a vocal home support, having the lions share of the territory, it was still Bedford who created the better second half chances on the counter attack. A high quality free flowing move down the right involving Darrington and Holyoak gave Verity Mason McLead a chance to volley home from a yard but the Saints keeper made a outstandingly recovery to speed across her goal line. saving the ball with her helmet and then blocking the follow up too! This gave St Albans belief and they soon got a goal back from a well worked penalty corner deflected beautifully into the side netting. St Albans pushed hard to get back on level terms, the game was frantic, but Bedford kept their control, composure, put in some great tackles and most importantly kept their discipline. Budd and Holland were able to add their experience to proceedings and see Bedford over the line to a big 3 points. This was certainly an example of winning ugly and could be vital come the end of the season. The win also sets up a top of the table clash against Norwich Dragons at Chester Road next weekend where a win will see Bedford climb to the top of the ladder. Push back at 1pm and all support very welcome. Free entry!