Real Bedford have begun their rebuild ahead of another crack at life in Southern League Premier Central at step three in the non-league pyramid, beginning with a pair of players who were rivals last season.
Transfers so far are headlined by former Kettering Town midfielder, Andi Thanoj and Jordan Ponticelli, who signs from National League side, Tamworth having spent last season on loan at Halesowen Town.
Both Kettering and Halesowen were losing play-off semi-finalists last season, with Real beating the former 3-1 before going on to lose the play-off final at Spalding United.
Read: Play-off heartbreak for Real Bedford after extra time loss at Spalding
“I’m very happy to be joining Real Bedford”, said Thanoj on his arrival, speaking to Real Bedford’s media team.
“Speaking with Rob and Peter, seeing the style of football they play, and the ambition of the club, it was a no brainer for me. [I’m] looking forward to a successful season.”
And Real manager, Rob Sinclair was equally happy with one of his early acquisitions.
“Andi is a fantastic character and someone who will add a lot to our group, both on and off the pitch”, said Sinclair.
“He’s a technical footballer who can control games, bring composure in possession and add real quality to our midfield. We’re delighted to bring him in and excited to get working with him.”
On Jordan Ponticelli, Sinclair added that the striker will add “another dimension” to the Real Bedford attack.
“We’re delighted to bring Jordan into the club”, said Sinclair.
“He will bring real quality and hunger, which fits perfectly with what we’re building here. He’ll add another dimension to our attack, and we’re excited to work with Jordan and see the impact he can make this season.”
More signings are likely given a number of last season’s cohort have been released.
Among the released players are captain Lee Watkins, Lewis Hilliard and Ben Weyman; the latter having joined near neighbours Bedford Town last week.
Read: Ben Weyman swaps Real Bedford for Bedford Town as Eagles squad takes shape
Watkins has since joined Biggleswade Town, who lost in the Southern League Central Division One play-off semi-final against local rivals, Biggleswade FC last season.
Isaac Galliford also leaves, alongside long-serving goalkeeper, Tyler McGregor who has joined Hitchin Town on a permanent deal having spent the second half of last season on loan at Top Field.
Malachi Soile and Rio Deall complete the list of released players.
New assistant manager
Sinclair will also welcome a new face to the dugout as assistant manager, Mark Ducket has left the club after four years.
He has been replaced by former Hemel Hempstead Town assistant, Chris Winton.
Ducket, who was the former number one at Bedford Town but resigned just two games into the 2020/21 season, joined Real Bedford as Sinclair’s number two soon after and racked up 200 games for the Pirates.
“Firstly, can I thank Rob for allowing me to come over and be his assistant for the last four years. It’s been an incredible journey, and as much as I’ve made huge sacrifices, I’ve loved every minute of it”, said Ducket.
“I’ve had the best job coaching a group of lads who have been a joy to work with over the last four seasons. There have been so many great times, ones I’m sure I’ll cherish in later years.
“Three champion winning seasons and a play-off final. I wish them nothing but success in their careers going forward and in the future”, he added.
His replacement, Winton has most recently been plying his trade in National League South as Lee Allinson’s assistant manager at Hemel Hempstead Town.
Allinson left Hemel for Dagenham and Redbridge, and was replaced by former Bedford Town manager, Lee Bircham.
Now, “local Bedford boy”, Winton joins Real and hopes his experience at step two can help the Pirates take the next step up the non-league ladder.
“I am very excited to join Real Bedford, an ambitious club with real intent and I’m eager to get to work right away”, said Winton.
“I have observed the impressive progress from a distance. The rapid rise in such a short time showcases the dedication and talent of Rob, his management team, the players, the chairman, and the board.
“I believe my skills and experience at step two can add value to the group as we work towards achieving the next chapter in this already successful history.
“As a local Bedford boy, I feel a genuine pride in being a part of this exciting project and I look forward to meeting everyone and connecting with the supporters.
“Up the Pirates!”
Pre-season
Real Bedford’s pre-season schedule is complete with a mixture of assignments across non-league.
Their first game is against Southern League Premier Central champions, Harborough Town on 11 July, before facing last season’s National League play-off finalists, Boreham Wood three days later.
A trip to old adversaries, Berkhamsted is also on the cards as well as games against St Albans City and Hertford Town taking place after the long-awaited Bedfordshire Senior Cup final against Bedford Town on 24 July.
Read: Bedfordshire Senior Cup Final to be played in July at The Eyrie
The fixture release date for the Southern League has not yet been announced.
