Gary Setchell’s Bedford Town side have enjoyed a brace of 3-2 victories in recent weeks, but they were on the wrong end of the scoreline on Tuesday night as they fell to Ware at The Eyrie.
Two first half goals for Ware’s number nine, Liam Hope looked to have given the third-placed side a comfortable cushion at the half-time interval, with the Eagles struggling to make much headway.
Harmeed Ishola was brought on at the break to give Bedford more attacking impetus and the more offensive style looked to have been paying dividends, as Connor Tomlinson reduced the deficit to a single goal.
Ware restored their two-goal advantage almost immediately through Taufee Scandon but the in-form Rene Howe netted again to keep the Eagles interested.
However, the task was made more difficult as substitute Ishola was sent off on the hour mark, with Bedford unable to equalise as Ware won 3-2 for their fifth win in six games.
Bedford Town remain fifth, four points off table-toppers North Leigh and Berkhamsted, who have a 100% record after five games.
Kempston Rovers meanwhile survived a late Hertford Town comeback to seal an action-packed 4-3 victory at Hillgrounds.
Two first half goals for Charlie Hayford – one of which was from the penalty spot – plus second half goals from Harry Stratton and Jack Quigley were enough to hold off Hertford.
Rovers’ second win of the season see them jump to 14th in the league table with Didcot Town and Barton Rovers to come.
Attention turns to the FA Cup once more for Bedford Town, who host Welwyn Garden City at The Eyrie on Saturday afternoon, with a spot in the third qualifying round up for grabs.
