Despite Bedford coming into this Bedfordshire Senior Cup tie as the favourites based on league standings, Biggleswade Town put in a performance that suggested they deserved more, ultimately falling 5-4 in a tense penalty shootout after a goalless draw over 90 minutes.

Biggleswade started on the front foot, crafting an early chance in the 10th minute, only to be met by a solid Bedford defence. Bedford responded in the 16th minute with a well-organized attack, but Biggleswade’s defenders were quick to clear. A crucial moment arrived on the half-hour mark when Bedford nearly broke through with a close-range 1-v-1, only for Doherty to jet back and execute a perfectly-timed sliding tackle, preserving the stalemate. Both sides continued to probe, but the first half ended without a goal.

Biggleswade dominated the second half and created multiple opportunities that kept Bedford under pressure. Panter came agonizingly close, with one shot cleared off the line by a desperate Bedford defence. The Waders pressed forward, and in the 76th minute, Panter’s well-placed shot forced yet another save. Just two minutes later, Biggleswade continued to create, signalling that a goal seemed inevitable.

In the 81st minute, Andrews nearly provided that breakthrough, receiving the ball right in front of the box. His shot, however, clipped the post and bounced out, leaving Biggleswade and their fans frustrated as full-time approached.

With no goals in regular time, penalties were called. The shootout proved decisive, with Bedford ultimately prevailing 5-4, leaving Biggleswade to wonder what might have been in a match they arguably should have won.