Getting there....

Another sunny day, and the Hawks were in their red second kit. Bedford FC's goalie had also put on his red kit and there was some confusion when Brickhill attacked almost from the whistle as to who the extra player in the box was. However, it was to our advantage as Ewan powered his first goal of the season within the first two minutes. Bedford FC's goalie put on a bib.

A period of tight defending followed particularly from Sam H and Greg, with some good work in the air from Fred as Bedford upped the pressure . However, after a good move, Bedford FC evened the score after 12 minutes. This seemed to spur them on and they continued to pressurise our defence forcing Dom to make a series of spectacular saves, despite being winded by one of the assaults on goal. Eventually, one of their efforts went in - and the Hawks were 2 - 1 down.

Tense moments followed and the spectators began to feel nervous, especially when the ball went into the back of the net again. Fortunately for Brickhill, the goal was disallowed because of a handball in the area, and the score remained the same as the boys went off for halftime.

Darren focussed on the importance of talking to each other, our need to be organised and the requirement to stop panicking, emphasising the fact that the boys are perfectly capable of playing good solid football if they just settle down and think about what they're doing.

Both teams had fired up during the break and the pace picked up straight from the restart. A foul by Bedford gave us a free kick on the half way line, and we followed on with some good team play resulting in a couple of real chances on goal. The Hawks were battling well all over the pitch with some determined tackles and attacking runs. Another free kick from half way - Ewan fed the ball in to the area - it hit one of Bedford's defenders - and Elijah tucked it away. Two all and everything to play for!

Everyone was working hard as Bedford piled on the pressure again. Dom made some more great saves, both Sams, Angus and David cleared loads of balls away, Josh's "Ronaldo"skills in midfield entertained the crowd and Niall made some of his great runs. So it was hugely disappointing when Bedford managed to break through our defence and put their third away.

The Hawks kept their heads up though, and Niall took another free kick from outside the box which went just wide. Bedford were true to their reputation as a physical team and there was some hard battling for possession. The last couple of minutes were filled with Brickhill efforts but sadly the Hawks final break came to nought as the referee blew for full time.

So, 3-2 to Bedford FC, but Brickhill can take heart from an improved performance full of potential.