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REPORT | Blues take Bristol scalp in Prem Cup
Bedford Blues put in yet another lionhearted performance as they stunned Bristol Bears with a 23-14 victory at Goldington Road, securing their fourth straight home success in the process.
You wouldn’t have known that Pat Lam’s side were the only ones with a chance of the Quarter Finals heading into the game as Bedford fought like lions and were more than good value for their victory, taking a Premiership scalp in this competition for the second season running.
It secured Mike Rayer’s side a first victory over Bristol for a decade and was the perfect way to mark the 100th anniversary of this fixture.
Bedford Assistant Coach, Jim Henry said: “We were disappointed not to get the result which we probably deserved at Bath last week, so to come from Sunday into a Friday and get the victory is really pleasing.
“The lads defended really well, and our set piece was outstanding in the conditions. Some really good game management as well, particularly in the first half going up the hill.
“The lads love playing at Goldington Road and even on a night like this, the crowd make it easy to get up for it and make a real difference. Delighted to give them the result as well.”
Bedford led from start to finish and again were able to execute different styles of their game.
Gone are the days when Bedford were just a score from anywhere team, they can now play the set piece battle when they need it, and they opened the scoring through Oisin Heffernan after a driving maul.
An opportunistic try from Will Maisey – on his 100th appearance for Bedford – saw them double their advantage. Bristol were error strewn but a nice bit of play from Sam Wolstenholme had them back in the game.
Maisey added a couple of penalties to keep Bedford ticking and when Man of the Match Fred Tuilagi crashed over from close range, the victory was in the bag.
Will Capon’s score gave Bristol the chance to attempt to get a bonus point in the last passage but another handling error cost them, and with it, their knockout hopes were crushed.
Maisey added: “Immensely proud of all the lads. We dug deep in tough conditions, a great feeling at the final whistle. A special moment to reach 100 appearances, Bedford have done a lot for me since I arrived and a proud moment for me and my family.”
