Real Bedford Ladies progress in the League Cup with a win over Wootton Blue Cross
The Pirates secured the win with a healthy 5-goal lead at halftime. The result was a strong confidence boost from the FA Cup exit a fortnight ago.
The hosts started fast with two early goals inside the first few minutes. Both were poachers' efforts from Bedford's starting strikers. Tasha Fensome was first to bag a goal, having been put through one-on-one, where she calmly slotted home. Neve Mayes quickly followed, rounding the keeper seconds later to double the early advantage.
Wootton Blue Cross then settled into the fixture, denying Real Bedford further chances to extend their lead. Particular credit is given to Blue Cross captain Hannah Payne, who Pulled off some great saves to stop Gemma Croucher and Tasha Fensome from range.
After relentless pressure throughout the half, Bedford finally made it three. Fensome picked the pocket of Payne and managed to nab the ball unopposed, tapping it home for her brace. Five minutes later, nearing halftime, Amber Smith delivered an inch-perfect cross to Chloe Martin, who arrived at the back post, cushioning it down into the back of the net with a well-timed header.
Moments later, The Pirates had their fifth just before the halftime whistle. Erin Price took a well-positioned free-kick. The midfielder managed to slide the ball underneath the jumping wall and nestle it into the bottom left, leaving the hosts with a healthy advantage heading into the break.
Second Half
The second half threw up more challenges for Bedford as Wootton Blue Cross seemed to sure up their defence. Despite many chances for the Pirates, the home team were denied by a combination of good defensive work and the woodwork.
As Bedford struggled to increase their lead, the visitors' confidence grew, and they started to create chances, finally getting a consolation effort late into the game; a corner taken by Louisa McCay found Holly Tyrell, who bundled the ball into the back of the net.
Bedford responded soon after with another goal from Neve Mayes. The striker took her chance on the turn to bag a brace and seal the win for Real Bedford.
Real Bedford Ladies return to league action next weekend with a visit to Barking FC on Sunday, 3rd December.
Real Bedford Ladies 6 - 1 Wootton Blue Cross
26th November, 2023
Kick-off: 1:30pm
Location: McMullen Park
