Real Bedford held to draw despite strong display Against Harborough Town
By Louie Truman
The Pirates played some outstanding football but were held to a 1-1 draw by Harborough Town, despite a late penalty shout.
Harborough Town had a positive start to the game, the hosts had a couple of early chances which King managed to save. Real Bedford went on to have a shot from range which went over.
The Bees had another good chance, Carline played a good ball into the box, Morgan got there ahead of King, but his effort went over the bar. Real Bedford went close to scoring the opener in the 18th minute, Shaheim Ward made a great run through Harborough’s defence, but his shot was saved.
The hosts also had an excellent opportunity, which hit the bar. Just before half-time, Allen cut inside before shooting just wide. The first half finished 0-0.
Second Half
Just minutes into the second-half, Ben Stevens managed to find the back of the net. It was a great run by Setchell down the wing, he played a perfect ball to Stevens who put the Pirates ahead.
Moments later, King was forced into a good save and Rob Sinclair’s side made a couple of great blocks inside the box to prevent a equaliser. Rob Sinclair made his first change; Jack Davies came on to replace Sam Cartwright.
Harborough had an excellent chance in the 62nd minute, Newton was through on goal; he cut inside and curled a shot which went wide. The Bees scored the equaliser in the 68th minute, Riley O’Sullivan scored with his first touch after coming on.
In the 75th minute, Josh Allen broke through on goal but was brought down in the box by Harborough captain Liam Dolman. The referee immediately waves away a clear penalty and somehow gives Allen a yellow card for diving…
Despite the equaliser, Real Bedford created a couple of good opportunities. Ben Stevens had a long range effort which went just wide and Jones crossed to Weyman whose effort was cleared.
Just minutes later, Jones had another shot which went just over. After four minutes of stoppage time, the points were shared.
In his post-match interview, Sinclair said:
“It was a fair result, I thought it was two good sides going at it. If you were a neutral watching, both sides were impressive. We’re playing the team who are top of the league, you take the point and move on to Tuesday.”
Next up for the Pirates is a home game against Worcester City on Tuesday the 17th of March. Get your tickets here.
Lineup: King, S.Ward, Richardson, Morrell, Cartwright (Davies 57’), Hilliard, Setchell, Watkins (Weyman 76’), Jones (Gray 88’), Stevens, Allen (Hitchcock 83’).
Unused Subs: Galliford
Harborough Town 1-1 Real Bedford
Date: Saturday 14th March
Kick-Off: 3pm
Venue: Bowden Park
