Real Bedford Win in Feisty Clash With Hitchin Town
By Will Murray
Real Bedford made it three wins out of three in pre-season with a 1-0 victory against Hitchin Town at Top Field. Conor Tee’s first-half strike was the only goal of the game in a feisty match that saw three red cards given to Lee Watkins, Drew Richardson and manager, Rob Sinclair.
The Pirates started well in the first-half, controlling possession and creating chances, especially through Tee. Hitchin also had opportunities through Plamedi Bomolo and Lewis Franklin, but Tyler McGregor was on hand to make a pair of comfortable saves.
The game kicked into life midway through the first-half, with both teams coming close to opening the scoring. In the 22nd minute, Ben Stevens found Tee, whose curling shot was saved by Josh Bowler for a corner. Four minutes later, McGregor made a crucial save to deny Liam Brooks after he was played through by Callum Kane.
It looked like the match was set to be goalless at the break, but Tee scored his second goal in as many games in the 42nd minute. Archie Jones’ ball found its way to the new signing, who fired home from inside the box.
Second Half
After a closely contested first half, with both teams enjoying periods of pressure, the second half quickly descended into chaos. A dubious foul was awarded against the Pirates, prompting Sinclair to be sent off in the 53rd minute by the referee.
A straight red quickly followed for captain Watkins, who was aggrieved with the referee’s initial decision, meaning the Pirates had to play the remainder of the game with 10 men.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Pirates nearly doubled their lead three minutes later. A perfect ball from Tee found Josh Setchell, whose shot was saved by Bowler from close range, with Stevens then shooting well over from the rebound.
A raft of changes were made in the 63rd minute, including Richardson, who was also sent off, twice, while leaving the pitch.
Despite the three red cards, the Pirates continued to create opportunities. Both Setchell and Ben Weyman caused problems for the Canaries, including the latter who nearly put the game beyond the hosts after a defensive mix-up.
Hitchin came forward in the late stages, with Tearle and Bomolo looking the most likely. Sinclair’s side stood firm, though, securing a third consecutive pre-season victory.
Next up for the Pirates is a home match against Hampton & Richmond Borough, who play in the National League South. Tickets will be free if booked in advance, due to last home games ticketing issue. Get your tickets here.
You can also view our full fixture list for the Southern League Premier Central here, which begins on Saturday 9th August against Spalding United at the Ledger Stadium.
Lineup: McGregor, Watkins, Richardson, S.Ward, Allen, Jones, Tee, Davies, Morrell, Evans, Stevens.
Second Half Subs: 45’ - Setchell, 63’ - Galliford, Weyman, Longden, Hitchcock, Nicolson, T.Ward, Soile.
Hitchin Town 0-1 Real Bedford
Saturday 19th July 2025
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Location: Top Field
