Costin double sends Bedford top

The maroons started the game on the front foot and earned a short corner with their first attack before an outstanding pass, hard into the circle from Emma Pinny saw Kate Costin deflect the ball, high into the net. Bedford were pressing well and in the ascendancy but as the half wore on, Norwich begun to pose more of a threat and were inches away from grabbing an equaliser when the ball whistled across the face of goal. On the whole Bedford were defending well with captain Rachel Jackson and Elli Priston making some fine tackles and the midfield unit stepping in front well. Bedford lost a little of their attacking impetuous however a rampaging run from the impressive SJ Darrington created a half chance at the back post with two Bedford runners unable to get a telling touch.

After half time, Bedford lost their way a little and Norwich were now the team carrying the bigger threat. Leanne Sargeant make a smart, low save from a corner and the dragons forwards were able to carry the ball to good effect and were rewarded with a goal of high class; a backhand finish which gave Sargeant little chance to react. The game was becoming a feisty affair, with some fully committed tackles from both sides. It was stick or twist time and thankfully Bedford were able to play their way back into the game, with the last 15 minutes being their best spell of hockey. Bedford made their dominance count at a vital time as Costin grabbed her second of the game, a shot on the turn, after some persistent work from Charlotte Holland whilst straight down the other end Norwich saw a good opportunity of their own go begging. Steph Holyoak had the chance to extend the lead whilst Bedford’s corners were forcing the Norwich keeper into some good saves. The final moments of the game saw Bedford in control, with some excellent play from Becca Budd in the midfield, using her experience to help close out the game and Verity Mason McLeod showing some silky stick skills. Bedford were able to end the game, passing and moving the ball more freely with some nice link up play and outletting from the whole team. Next week Bedford are again at home will be looking to consolidate top spot with another home match against Holcombe. Push back at 1pm at Chester Road.