Late Drama Sees Real Bedford Women Fall Short
By Louie Truman
Despite a positive performance, The Pirates fall short to Lewes after conceding a penalty in the 92nd minute.
Real Bedford started the game positively, the Pirates put Lewes under pressure and opened the scoring in the 15th minute. It was a great pass from Meale, which sent Lucy Wood down the left; Wood cut in and finished her chance well. Just after the goal, Lewes had a good chance, but Meale made a good save.
The visitors created a couple of good chances; it was a superb ball in from Maddie Brant that was dealt with by Real Bedford’s defence. The attack continued as Liv Carpenter crossed from the right, and Leah Lane tried her luck, but a foul was called.
Paula Howels scored the equaliser for Lewes. It was a great play down the wing, Liv Carpenter crossed, and Paula was there to finish. Charlie Bill’s side went on to create multiple chances, but the Pirates were unable to find the back of the net. It ended 1-1 at the break.
Second Half
Charlie Bill made his first change at half-time; Mylee Baker came on to replace Melis Mehmet. Goalkeeper Meale made another great save in the 48th minute, and Baker had a shot on goal which drifted wide just five minutes later.
Bryant created multiple opportunities for the Pirates, and she made a great run, but her shot was blocked. Real Bedford had a positive spell of dominating possession. The Pirates continued to push for the winner; Bryant had a shot, which forced another save. Real Bedford continued to have multiple shots at goal.
In the 86th minute, a Lewes defender made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny Stovold’s header. The visitors got a penalty in the 92nd minute, as Meale took down the Lewes attacker in the box. Brant managed to convert from the spot, which gave Lewes the deciding goal.
Next up for the Pirates is a away match against Hashtag United on Sunday 8th February.
Lineup: Meale, Williams, Stovold, Warren, Puddick, Rush, Wood (Logie 93’), Mehmet (Baker 46’), Bryant, Grant, Bensted
Unused subs: Meollo, Herd, Fields-Davis,
Real Bedford 1-2 Lewes
Sunday 25th January
Kick-off: 17:30pm
Location: The Eyrie
