Match Preview: Real Bedford v Kettering Town - Play off Semi-final
Real Bedford return to action this Wednesday night in a huge play off semi-final match against Kettering Town under the lights. The Ledger Stadium is set for a big atmosphere. Your support could make all the difference.
If this fixture ends in a draw, extra time, and then penalties will follow.
Date: Wednesday 29th April
Kick-off: 7:45pm
Turnstiles open: 6:30pm
Venue: Ledger Stadium
TICKETS
This fixture is not included in season tickets, in line with league rules for play-off matches.
This game will be segregated, with home and away supporters in separate areas.
Home tickets are only available in advance from Real Coffee in Bedford. Away tickets for Kettering Town supporters have now sold out.
There will be a general sale at the gate, for home fans only. The only supporters able to purchase tickets on the night are:
Season ticket holders (must present season ticket)
Players’ family (must present player card)
Junior Elite players and family (must present player card)
Real Bedford fans with merch, photo ID or proof of recent attendance at a Real Bedford game
Supporters are strongly encouraged to secure tickets in advance where possible.
LIVE STREAM
Due to league rules, the club is unable to stream the match in-house.
However, the game will be available to watch via ClubberTV (paid service) for supporters who cannot attend.
We’ll be hosting an X ‘Spaces’ audio stream for fans to tune in and follow the game live.
THE OPPOSITION
After a league reshuffle, Kettering joined the Premier Division Central in 2018–19 and won the title, securing promotion to the National League North. They were relegated back in 2022–23 after a near-bottom finish.
In 2024–25, they enjoyed an FA Cup win over Northampton Town before exiting to Doncaster Rovers. They also finished runners-up in the league, beating Harborough Town on penalties in the play-off semi-final, but lost 4–2 to AFC Telford United in the final.
During the current campaign, Kettering finished just one place below Real Bedford in fourth. The Poppies finished their season, with 21 wins, 9 draws, and 12 losses. Edward Panter is the club’s top goal scorer, with 18 goals this season, so he’ll remain a threat in Wednesday’s fixture.
FOOD & DRINK
Food and drink are available throughout the ground, with additional food truck options in both home and away fan areas for this fixture.
In partnership with BrewPoint, we offer a range of beers including Genesis Stout, Supernova Helles Lager, Foghorn Hazy Session IPA and Lodestar Pacific Pale Ale.
Supporters can also visit the Brew Point Hut near the tunnel or head inside the clubhouse for a range of refreshments.
A selection of hot and cold food will be available, including fan favourites.
REAL COFFEE CART
The coffee cart, located opposite the pitch, continues to be a popular part of the matchday experience, serving a range of hot drinks from Real Coffee.
MERCHANDISE
The club shop is located next to the coffee hut opposite the pitch.
Supporters can purchase the 2025/26 home and away shirts, along with a range of Real Bedford clothing and accessories.
GETTING TO THE GROUND
Fans travelling via the M1 should exit at Junction 13 onto the A421, continuing along the Bedford bypass before taking the third slip road onto the A603 (Sandy). The ground is located approximately 200 yards on the left.
Turn onto Meadow Lane, where Real Bedford signage is clearly visible.
Postcode: MK44 3LW
PARKING
Limited parking is available just before the stadium on the left, so supporters are encouraged to travel together where possible.
An overflow car park is also available on the right as you turn onto Meadow Lane.
ACCESSIBILITY
There are two disabled parking bays located outside the ground. Inside, a designated viewing area is available at the front of the main stand.
For further assistance, contact: hello@realbedford.com
WHAT’S NEXT
Should Real Bedford progress, the play off final will take place on Monday 4th May, versus Spalding United or Halesowen Town.
FOLLOW THE MATCH
If you can’t attend, you can follow live updates via the club’s official social channels.
Follow @realbedford on X and Instagram,with a full match report available on the club website after the game.
IMPORTANT SUPPORTER INFORMATION
Real Bedford is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable matchday environment for all supporters.
The club operates a zero-tolerance policy towards abusive, discriminatory, or disorderly behaviour. We reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any individual from the stadium whose conduct is deemed unacceptable. View our matchday information article here.
