Real Bedford Ladies Put Four Past St Albans City
Real Bedford Ladies hosted St Albans City Women at McMullen Park, aiming to continue their perfect start to the season. With five wins from five games, The Pirates were eager to make it six.
Lisa Milliken returned to the defence while Sophie Billing earned a start in the absence of Chloe Martin, who had picked up a hamstring injury.
From the first whistle, it was clear that Real Bedford Ladies were in for a commanding performance. They quickly established their dominance, controlling the midfield with the St Albans defence facing significant pressure right from the beginning.
Sophie Billing paid back her start, opening the scoring in the 18th minute with a class finish. Picking up a clearance from the St Albans defence, without any hesitation, thundered a left-footed shot from 18 yards, nestling the ball into the back of the net.
Despite their control over the game and waves of attack, another goal eluded The Pirates. However, just as the first half was winding down, Cesca Partridge pulled a beauty out of nowhere. From 30 yards, she smashed a half-volley that lobbed the St Albans goalkeeper, doubling the lead for Real Bedford.
Second Half
The second half mirrored the first in terms of possession and control. Real Bedford's midfield and defence held firm, giving St Albans little room to create or exploit any chances.
Yet, in the 54th minute, St Albans' Kiera Ward delivered a warning to The Pirates. Ward, finding herself in an open space, unleashed a powerful shot that agonisingly struck the outside of the post.
But Real Bedford responded and put the game beyond St Albans' reach. In the 71st minute, Sophie Billing, again in the mix, broke free down the left flank and sent a perfect cross into the box to Neve Mayes, who couldn't miss from 6 yards out.
The Pirates weren't done. In the 83rd minute, Neve Mayes forced an own goal. Aggressively driving into the box, one of St Albans defenders turned Mayes cross into her own net.
The final whistle blew with Real Bedford sealing a 4-0 victory, ensuring they maintained their perfect record this season. All eyes are now on the FA Cup as Real Bedford ladies travel to Hackney next weekend.
Real Bedford Ladies 4 - 0 St. Albans City
24th September, 2023
Kick-off: 2pm
Location: McMullen Park
