Bedford Town’s new National League North season got off to the worst possible start as they lost 1-0 at Oxford City on Saturday (8 August).
A 77th-minute header from City debutant, Ludwig Francillette was enough for the hosts to take the first three points on offer ahead of another mammoth step two season for the Eagles.
Both of these clubs were involved in last season’s six way relegation fight at the bottom of the division on the final day, and Bedford Town are expecting a similar battle this time around.
For Oxford City, their fanbase’s hopes are for a higher finish this season, thanks in large to a busy transfer window, in which they welcomed a number of high-profile signings including Tyrone Marsh from Bedford Town.
Ellis Brown was another man to swap The Eyrie for the MGroup Stadium in the summer, and both he and Marsh started against their old clubs.
However, it was another new signing in centre back, Francillette who proved the difference on Saturday.
Even first half
Bedford Town’s pre-season had been a solid one, with a trio of 2-0 wins alongside a 3-0 win against a Luton Town development XI proving their defence can be trusted to keep clean sheets.
With the addition of proven goalkeeper, 36-year old Laurie Walker, the foundations look well set, and the Eagles were well on their way to keeping a first competitive clean sheet before Francillette struck late.
Bedford Town began Saturday’s clash in Oxford well, forcing a trio of early corners, before Jonny Maxted – another new signing for City – did well to keep out Greg Taylor’s snap shot with eight minutes on the clock.
First half chances for Oxford fell to Francillette, who directed a pair of headers narrowly off target, while former Eagle, Marsh and veteran, Matty Taylor were denied by Walker.
David Hicks, a second Reading loanee to arrive in Bedford alongside striker Reece Evans, also had an opportunity late on for the visitors but saw his effort sail over.
Francillette strikes
Early stages of the second half saw long range efforts for George Moncur and new captain, Josh Castiglione blocked before Doherty saw a simple header kept out by Maxted.
There was an increasing sense that a single goal would win the game, and so it transpired as Ludwig Francillette scored the only goal of the clash on the 77-minute mark.
A high cross evaded Walker in the Bedford goal, allowing Francillette the opportunity to nod home the eventual winner for the hosts at the back post, giving Oxford City all three points.
Bedford Town had a flurry of half chances to level it up late on; Lewis Franklin’s cross narrowly missed Evans in the area, while a late Ryan Cole header flew over, but Oxford City held on for an opening day triumph.
Harry Smart’s side return to home territory next Saturday, hosting Darlington at The Eyrie.
