LADIES FOOTBALL: Hatters set up Seagulls tie

Erica Byron scores the third for Luton ladies

The visitors pressed for an early goal as Michelle Byrne found Erica Byron who shot inches wide.

Hatters were ahead on 16 minutes though when Bedford goalkeeper Nina Regolo failed to clear the ball from a Zara Carroll and Luton striker Joanne Rutherford netted from close range.

Town created several more chances but were unable to convert them until ex-Bedford player Natasha Fensome made it 2-0 on 22 minutes with a superb overhead kick.

Bedford were back in the match just before the interval as Sophie Britton fouled in the area by Hatters keeper Rachel Evans and home skipper Rebecca Vass converted the spot kick.

After the break, Rutherford put Fensome in on goal but the Bedford keeper was able to collect the ball.

Chloe Scott then sent a free kick wide for Bedford, as Luton had breathing space on 73 minutes when Byron dribbled though the entire defence to find the bottom corner with a brilliant individual goal.

Bedford looked for an immediate response as Vass hit the bar, while they made it 3-2 with six minutes to go when Chelsea Hunter netted.

Luton Town’s U16s were impressive 8-1 winners against Watford as Jodie Bellinger (4), Chloe Fitzsimmons (2), Erin O’Donnaghue and Daisy Slowey were on target.