Late Heartbreak for Bedford

Martin Mason-McLeod selected a large squad for the game with the experienced Yvette Van Yperen coming in for her first appearance of the season, whilst Charlotte Holland was also back. Bedford made a terrible start against Cambridge City and were behind after only 2 minutes, with the maroons guilty of ball watching. With GB legend Helen Richardson-Walsh dropping deep and pulling the strings, Bedford were under the cosh and their opponents enjoyed time on the ball and were able to play between lines. However, gradually Bedford began to get a grip on the game and toughened up.

By the mid-point in the half, the game was much more even, and Bedford created a few opportunities at goal which couldn’t quite be converted. Eventually Bedford were back on level terms after good work from Claire Higginson. Charlotte Holland’s goal bound shot was blocked on the line by a City foot and up stepped captain Rachel Jackson to tuck home from the spot.

Into the second half and both teams enjoyed good spells. MOTM Emma Pinny was covering a lot of ground in the midfield alongside Jenna Maclaren, whilst both Elli Priston and SJ Darrington made vital recovery tackles at key points. Leanne Sargeant was called up to make a great save from a CCHC penalty corner whilst Holland was almost on the end of opportunities at the other end. Bedford looked to be heading for a share of the points but young city player Jordan Homann had other ideas, as she escaped a couple of Bedford tackles before unleashing an unstoppable reverse stick shot high into the goal three minutes from time to take the win 2-1 for her side.

Next week Bedford have a double header; away to Harleston Magpies on Saturday and home to second placed Wimbledon on Sunday. Push back at Chester Road is 3pm and all support welcome.