Pirates progress in League Cup after penalty shootout win over Shefford
A late goal for the hosts forced the game to penalties, where Tyler McGregor became Bedford’s hero, saving two attempts from 12 yards to secure Real Bedford a place in the Semi-Final.
The visitors got on the scoresheet first. Some clever play from Archie Jones released Ben Stevens, who wrapped a shot towards goal. His chance smashed against the woodwork, bouncing up in front of an awaiting Tom Hitchcock, who managed to head the ball into a vacant net for an early lead.
The Pirates maintained possession, but Shefford limited the number of clear-cut chances for the remainder of the half. A blocked shot from Tom Hitchcock and a free-kick attempt from Ben Stevens were not enough to double their lead.
Second Half
Real Bedford continued their dominance into the second half, with more opportunities at goal. Claston Gordon was put through one-on-one with the keeper, who he managed to evade but failed to find the back of the net after a heroic goal-line clearance from Charlie Milton.
Joey Evans was introduced to the game at the hour mark, immediately firing off a warning shot, which Jack Galatis saved in the Shefford net. Eddie Corbit managed to get off a similar chance with the same outcome, as Galatis smothered the substitute’s effort.
In the dying minutes of the game, Shefford produced a late equaliser. Despite having few attacks throughout the 90, they proved clinical in the box. Returning captain Charlie Milton was on hand to bundle the ball into the back of the net as The Pirates failed to clear their lines and maintain their lead, sending the match to penalties.
Luke Knight and Ben Stevens slotted the first two penalties for The Pirates before McGregor made his first save, denying Scott Metcalfe. Joey Evans then hit the post with his effort, but McGregor was on hand to save the following Shefford attempt, maintaining Bedford’s advantage.
Lee Watkins dispatched his attempt before Eddie Corbit stepped up to score the decisive penalty, smashing the ball into the bottom left to send Real Bedford into the league cup semi-final.
The Pirates will face Tring Athletic in April in the semi-final but host Dunstable town this weekend at McMullen Park in crucial league action. Tickets are available here.
RBFC: McGregor, Agemoh-Davies, Longden (Wood 45’), J.Ducket, Burgess, Knight, Gordon (Corbit 68’), Richardson (Watkins 60’), Hitchcock (Walsh 79’), Stevens, Jones (Evans 60’)
Shefford Town & Campton 1 - 1 Real Bedford (2-4 Penalties)
19th March, 2024
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Location: Shefford Sports Club
