Real Bedford returned to home action following their 5-1 victory over Cheltenham Town on 4 January but were edged out 2-1 by Lewes FC after conceding a late penalty in stoppage time at the home of Bedford Town, The Eyrie.
The Pirates drop to fifth in Women’s National League Premier South after Oxford’s 2-0 win against Cheltenham, saw them leapfrog Charlie Bill’s side, although the title race looks to be a three horse race between current league leaders, Watford, Plymouth Argyle and Bournemouth.
The Pirates made a positive start in front of their home support and applied early pressure, winning set pieces and forcing Lewes into defensive positions.
Bedford created the first clear chances of the game, with Lucy Wood and Issy Bryant both involved in promising attacking moves.
A Bedford corner in the 12th minute saw Sofia Stovold rise to meet the delivery, but Lewes goalkeeper Emily Moore made a comfortable save.
Bedford took the lead midway through the first half. Goalkeeper, Erica Meale played a long ball forward to release Lucy Wood down the left. Wood drove into the box and struck a powerful shot past Moore to give Bedford a 1-0 lead.
Lewes responded by increasing their tempo and began to threaten on the counter attack.
Liv Carpenter caused problems down the left wing, delivering dangerous balls into the box. The equaliser came in the 31st minute as a cross from Carpenter found Paula Howells, who finished from close range to make it 1-1.
Both sides continued to create chances before half-time. Bedford came close through Breon Grant, but her effort was saved.
At the other end, Lewes responded with a well-worked set piece involving Lois Roche, Leah Lane and Maddie Brant, but Bedford defended well to keep the scores level at the break.
The second half saw Bedford create several opportunities, particularly through Issy Bryant, who tested Moore on several occasions. Moore produced a series of important saves as Bedford pushed forward in search of a second goal.
As the match entered the closing stages, Bedford came close to re-taking the lead when a corner caused problems in the box, only for Lewes captain, Maddie Brant to make a goal line clearance.
The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time when Chelsea Ferguson was fouled inside the box, resulting in a penalty. Maddie Brant stepped up and converted from the spot to secure the win for Lewes.
Real Bedford Women remain fifth in the table with 22 points, while Lewes sit sixth with 19. Bedford’s next fixture is away against Hashtag United on Sunday 8 February.
