Cobblers bow out of league cup
Bideford gained revenge for two recent defeats with a narrow victory at the Tannery Ground this evening. A much changed Street line up from Saturday's FA Trophy victory put up a good fist of it but just fell short despite a late Dave O'Hare goal which set up a tense finish.
Street had the first opportunity when a mazy run by Josh Wadham saw him tee up a chance for an on-rushing Josh Bennett but his close range effort was partially blocked and the ball squirmed agonsingly wide. Bideford struck the opening goal on 28 minutes when Street failed to clear their lines and Ryan Turner scored from close range.
Just before half time a terrific interchange between Craig Herrod and Lewis Waldy ended with a thunderous effort from Leigh Bailey but his effort was turned around for a corner and moments later Wadham had the ball in the net but the Street winger was rightfully flagged offside. Bideford then put in a couple of dangerous crosses to the far post but couldn't quite find a finish to trouble Joe Moore.
Early in the second half Harry Foster turned his man and went on a great run but fired his fierce drive into the side netting. On the hour mark there was a chance for both teams, firstly O'Hare headed a Ed Butcher free kick just wide then Turner headed over for the visitors when well placed.
Turner missed a golden opportunity with 15 minutes left but missed from 7 yards with the goal at his mercy but the Bideford front man made amends minutes later with a fast counter attack down the left and squared the ball to Billy Tucker to roll into an empty net. Street ended the game strongly and O'Hare set up a grandstand finish when he fired home following good work from Butcher. With moments left on the clock Butcher went one on one with the keeper after latching onto a pass from Jamie Short but his effort was straight at the keeper and the chance to take the tie to penalties had gone,
A great cup tie but not to be on the night for the Cobblers, good luck to Bideford in the next round. Next up for Street is an away trip to Thatcham this Saturday.
