Rob Sinclair’s side started the 2025/26 Southern League Premier Central season perfectly, beating Spalding United 2-1 at the Ledger Stadium.

Our first away match of the league campaign sees us travel to Needham Market. The Marketmen were relegated from the National League North last season and will be keen to secure an instant return to step two.

The match against Needham Market will be played at Bloomfields and will kick-off at 7:45pm.

Here is everything you need to know ahead of Tuesday’s game.

MATCH DETAILS

Date: Tuesday 12th August
Venue: Bloomfields, Quinton Rd, Needham Market, Ipswich IP6 8DA
Kick-Off: 7:45pm

TICKETS

You can purchase tickets on Needham Market’s website here. The list of General Admission prices can be found below:

Adults: £15
Concessions (Over 60): £10
Child 12-16 years: £5
Accompanied Child Under 12 years: Free

HOW TO GET TO Bloomfields

From Bedford, supporters should take the A14 towards Ipswich before exiting at Junction 50 towards Stowmarket and Needham Market. From here, stay on the A1120 for a mile before turning left onto Needham Road (B1113). After just over two miles, turn right onto Barrett’s Lane and then immediately left onto Quinton Road, where you’ll find Bloomfields.

There is limited on-site parking at Bloomfields, so supporters are advised to park at Crowley Park or in nearby residential areas.

THE OPPOSITION

Needham Market secured promotion to step two of the non-league pyramid for the first time in the club’s history in the 2023/24 season. They finished three points clear of Leamington, losing only seven out of their 40 league matches.

Last season saw the Marketmen make an instant return to the Southern League Premier Central, though, as they were relegated after picking up 39 points from 46 matches.

Tom Rothery, who stepped in to become the club’s manager in February 2025, was given a two-year contract in April. Previously, he was the assistant manager at Needham Market for just under six years between 2019 and 2025.

They started their 2025/26 season with a 4-0 away defeat against Harborough Town, with the Bees scoring three second half goals.

FOLLOW THE MATCH ON SOCIAL MEDIA

If you can’t make the game, you can follow the match via our official X and Instagram accounts. A match report will also be posted on the club website, detailing the key moments in the game.

Follow @realbedford on X and Instagram.