Real Bedford held to goalless draw with MK Irish
Real Bedford were held to a goalless draw in a top of the table clash with MK Irish on Saturday. An injury-time winner was ruled offside, meaning the points were shared in Milton Keynes.
As first played second, the fixture marked their fourth meeting of the sides this season. With The Pirates recently dropping points, the stage was set for another important meeting between the sides in front of a large, expectant crowd.
The previous meetings between the sides had set this up as an intriguing game for the spectators. Real Bedford claimed victory in the opening league game of the season, in a match in which MK Irish would have felt they were the better side. MK Irish responded with a win in their FA Cup at McMullen Park, only for Real Bedford to take the spoils in the FA Vase. As both sides have put in impressive runs this season and Irish remained unbeaten in the league since the opening day, all eyes were on this fixture.
Real Bedford dominated the first half, creating numerous chances to take the lead but frustratingly failing to convert any, largely thanks to some great saves from Tom Ladyman in the Irish goal. He made three excellent saves, keeping his team in the game against a relentless Real Bedford attack. Ben Stevens and Joey Evans were both denied by Ladyman’s quick reflexes, and Archie Jones saw his effort saved at the post, with the ball getting trapped dead between the post and the goalkeeper's leg.
Despite their attacking efforts, MK Irish were confined to long-range attempts in the opening spells, with George Shrieves causing trouble down the right but unable to break through the Real Bedford defence.
The score remained goalless as the teams headed into halftime.
Second Half
The second half saw a shift in momentum as the game became more balanced. Both teams were limited in their chances, turning the match into a midfield battle, with both defences effectively closing down opportunities.
Bedford thought they had clinched victory in the dying moments when a ball headed onto Archie Jones in the box was finished neatly, only for the celebrations to be cut short by an offside call.
Ultimately, the game ended goalless, but it was another excellent game between the sides battling for the top spot.
The result leaves Real Bedford still at the top of the league, but the pressure mounts as MK Irish now have three games in hand, promising an exciting final stretch to the season.
The Pirates now host another important clash with 4th placed Leverstock Green at McMullen Park. Tickets are available here.
RBFC: McGregor, Longden, Corbit, Wood ©, Richardson, Smith, Setchell (Agemoh-Davies 80’), Watkins, Evans, Stevens (Hitchcock 87’), Jones
Unused Subs: Bozward, Knight, Gordon
MK Irish 0 - 0 Real Bedford
9th March, 2024
Kick-off: 3pm
Location: The Irish Centre
