Real Bedford's Cup Run Ends in 4-0 DEFEAT to Hashtag United
Real Bedford's League Cup journey came to an end in the quarter-finals with a heavy 4-0 defeat away to Hashtag United. The hosts showcased their dominance early on, setting the tone for a challenging afternoon for Bedford.
The match started strongly for Hashtag United, and within two minutes, Freda Ayisi played a precise ball through to Hayley West, who controlled it before sliding it past Guy to give the hosts an early lead.
Hashtag kept the pressure, forcing Bedford onto the back foot and in the 13th minute, a Bedford clearance fell to Frankie Finlay at the edge of the box. She smashed a right-footed shot into the bottom corner, doubling Hashtag’s advantage. Bedford struggled to contain the relentless attacks, though they had their first moment in the 16th minute when Gould and Mitchell combined well down the right, creating Bedford’s first real chance. Gould’s shot, however, sailed narrowly over the bar.
Hashtag continued to threaten, with Sami Rowland and Holly Turner both testing Guy, whose excellent saves kept the scoreline from growing even worse before halftime. Despite Bedford’s efforts, they went into the break trailing 2-0 and with a mountain to climb in the second half.
Second Half
The second half began with renewed energy from Bedford. In the 53rd minute, Gould won the ball and went on a fantastic solo run, but her powerful shot rattled the post, narrowly missing what could have been a game-changing goal. Hashtag, however, remained clinical.
In the 60th minute, a short corner routine saw Jade Keogh unleash a looping shot from the edge of the box, beating Guy and extending Hashtag's lead to 3-0. Shortly after, a penalty was awarded to Hashtag when Apinda was brought down in the box. Apinda stepped up to convert the spot-kick, making it 4-0 in the 68th minute.
Late in the match, Bedford tried to salvage something from the game, applying pressure and creating a few half-chances. However, none were enough to trouble the Hashtag goalkeeper.
The full-time whistle confirmed a decisive 4-0 victory for Hashtag United, bringing Bedford’s League Cup run to an end.
The Pirates are next at home on Sunday 15th December, facing London Bees in the league. Tickets for the match are available here.
RBFC Women: Guy, Warren, Puddick, Biggadike, Newman (Evans 60’), Stovold, McLean (O’Leary 60’), Mitchell, Meola (Hayes 75’), Gould, Wilson (O.Brien 75’).
Unused subs: Sansom.
Hashtag United 4 - 0 Real Bedford
1st December, 2024
Kick-off: 3pm
Location: Parkside
