Report

Arlesey Town were victorious in this weekend's local derby against Bedford at Kempston FC. The two clubs know each other inside out having met on at least 3 occasions in each of the last 3 seasons. In a highly charged and passionate affair it was Arlesey that emerged victorious.

The game started with Arlesey instantly on the front foot. A flicked ball from Becky Charter on the edge of the box provided Kat Hamplova with a chance in front of goal. As she attempted to go around the goalkeeper she was brought down and the referee correctly awarded a penalty. Sarah Tayler emphatically converted the spot kick to put Arlesey in the lead.

Bedford then fought back and pinned Arlesey into their own defensive third. A mistake from the Arlesey defence allowed Natasha Fensome to square to Sarah Saunders who finished from 6 yards out. The game then restarted with Bedford looking the stronger before the half time whistle.

As the 2nd half resumed Arlesey were the quickest out of the blocks. Some great control from Sarah Langley allowed Mandy Cain to send Sarah Tayler down the left wing. An excellent left footed cross to the back post allowed Kat Hamplova to head the ball in to cap a brilliant flowing move. Arlesey continued the pressure and a cross from Becky Charter was fumbled by the Bedford goalkeeper allowing Sarah Tayler to scramble the ball in to send Arlesey into a 3-1 lead.

Bedford pulled a late goal back from a corner but also maintained their organisation to see out a hard fought win.

Manager Craig Rennie was delighted with the display commenting, "Both sets of players behaved impeccably in the face of some very strange decisions from the officials. We knew exactly what to expect in this derby game and it is always a fixture we look forward to. What impressed me today was that we were able play entertaining football but also keep our heads and stay organised. I think we are gaining some real momentum and I can't wait for another tough game against Peterborough next week."