Bedford's FA Trophy Run Ends in 3-0 Defeat to Bowers & Pitsea
Real Bedford’s FA Trophy campaign came to an end with a disappointing 3-0 defeat away to Bowers & Pitsea in Southend. After a dominant 4-0 win against Leighton Town in the previous round, Bedford were hoping to carry that momentum into the third round but faced a tough Bowers side.
The game began with chances for both sides. Bowers & Pitsea’s TQ Addy was first to test Bedford’s defence, striking into the side netting early on. Bedford were given a major let-off shortly after, when Alfie Evans broke through their backline, rounded goalkeeper Tyler McGregor, only to hit the post with the goal wide open.
From there, Bowers took full control, pinning Real Bedford in their own half. In the 12th minute, Addy found Alex Teniola in the box, who calmly slotted it into the bottom corner, putting Bowers 1-0 ahead. Things went from bad to worse for Bedford just five minutes later, as Lewis Chambers dispossessed Bedford and sets up Teniola again, who made it 2-0 with his second goal of the afternoon.
Bowers continued to dominate the half and n the 33rd minute, Teniola came close to completing his hat-trick, heading Straker’s cross against the bar. Bedford struggled to get a foothold in the game and were fortunate not to be further behind as they went into the break 2 goals down.
Second Half
Real Bedford came out with more intent in the second half, showing some fight and creating a few chances, but Bowers’ defence remained resolute. However, any hope of a comeback was dashed in the 56th minute when Drew Richardson fouled Addy in the box, conceding a penalty. Addy coolly converted, sending McGregor the wrong way to make it 3-0.
Bedford manager Rob Sinclair made a series of substitutions, bringing on Isaac Galliford, Eddie Corbit, and Tom Hitchcock to inject some life into the attack and they created their first real chance in the 66th minute, with Galliford shooting just wide. Tom Hitchcock also had a shot on goal however it was ruled offside shortly after, as Bedford began to look more threatening.
Despite their best efforts, Bedford couldn’t break down the Bowers defence, and the game fizzled out with both teams trading spells of possession but no real chances of note.
The Pirates are next at home on Saturday 12th October, facing Thame United in the league. Tickets for the match are available here.
RBFC: McGregor, Morrell, S. Ward, Agemoh-Davies, Watkins, Richardson, T. Ward (Galliford 60’), Nicolson (Corbit 60’), Stevens, Setchell (Knight 63’), Evans (Hitchcock 68’).
Unused subs: Longden
Bowers and Pitsea 3 - 0 Real Bedford
5th October, 2024
Kick-off: 3pm
Location: Len Salmon Stadium
