Real Bedford Ladies Continue Perfect Form in the League with Win Over Barking
McMullen Park witnessed another commanding performance by Real Bedford Ladies, who continued their impressive early-season form by notching their third win in as many games. The 5-0 win against Barking means they have now scored 16 goals in those three matches, conceding just once and retaining their place at the top of the league.
Barking came into the match on the back of an impressive 5-0 over Dunstable after winning promotion last season, but they found themselves on the back foot right from the start against a Real Bedford side looking to set an early pace in the league.
From the off, Real dominated the game, and while they entered the half-time break 4-0 to the good, it could have been more with the home side launching wave after wave of attack in the first half.
The hosts opened the scoring with Cesca Partridge finding the net, her third goal in two games. The first-time finish came off a well-delivered free-kick from Kaylen Gerkey out wide, which found its way to Partridge, who didn't hesitate to place it into the back of the net.
Real pushed hard for a second, and it wasn't long before Tasha Fensome made her mark, getting on the end of a delightful through ball from Gemma Croucher.
The third goal was an impressive finish by Chloe Martin, on her full debut for The Pirates, who was also named player of the match. Chloe broke free on the left and audaciously lobbed the Barking goalie from 20 yards out.
Before the half could conclude, Real Bedford Ladies made it 4-0. Crouchy turned from provider to finisher, smashing a volley into the back of the net after a deep cross from CJ was headed back into the six-yard box by Zara Carroll.
Second Half
The second half failed to deliver a final scoreline that the first had threatened. Real Bedford Ladies, despite their dominance, struggled to convert their chances, missing a host of opportunities. However, The Pirates finally registered a fifth, with Neve firing home after being set up by Gemma Croucher.
Barking did have the chance for a consolation goal, but Sarah Hudson kept her clean sheet with a strong save in the game's later stages.
With another commanding win, Real faces a daunting trip to Wroxham, where they will look to maintain their early season winning form.
RBFC: Hudson, Reed, Milikan, Gerkey, Carroll (c), Ajayi, Franklin, Croucher, Partridge, Fensome, Martin
Subs: Esposito, Coppin, Mayes, Billing, Papp
Real Bedford Ladies 5 - 0 Barking Women
3rd September, 2023
Kick-off: 2pm
Location: McMullen Park
