Bedfont Sports Under-18s began their 2026 calendar year with a hard-fought and deserved 3–2 away victory over Leatherhead FC Under-18s, claiming a crucial three points in the Isthmian Youth League Central Division.

Coming into the fixture, both sides were locked on six points, with Bedfont sitting 8th and Leatherhead 10th, making this a significant contest in the early stages of the new year. Confidence within the Bedfont camp was strong, with a clear game plan and collective belief heading into the match.

First Half – Response and Quality in Possession

Bedfont lined up with an unorthodox but confident starting XI, including two Under-16 players. Liam started in goal behind a back four of Harry Wells, Ollie Morphew, Billy (U16), and Keegan (U16). Oscar Marquez and Toby Barnes operated as the double pivot, with Eddie supporting higher up the pitch. Lore featured on the right, Kayden on the left, and Oskar led the line. Prolific goalscorer Ollie Peck began the match on the bench.

The opening exchanges were competitive, with Leatherhead gaining the early advantage around the 15-minute mark, converting from a corner with a well-placed header back across goal to make it 1–0.

Bedfont responded positively and began to grow into the game, finding pockets of space between the lines. Lore’s pace on the right and Kayden’s direct running on the left caused persistent problems, while Oskar’s work rate and pressing from the front set the tone.

The equaliser came around the 25th minute, born out of that pressure. Oskar forced an error from the Leatherhead centre-back, reacted quickly to the loose touch, and showed real composure to finish calmly and bring Bedfont level.

Momentum shifted decisively, and Bedfont soon found a second goal through an excellent passage of team play. Building patiently from the back, the ball was worked through midfield and out to Kayden on the left. A sharp burst of pace and clever skill created space for a cut-back, which Oskar met with a composed finish into the bottom corner to give Bedfont a 2–1 lead heading into half-time.

Second Half – Control, Changes, and Decisive Moments

Bedfont restarted the second half unchanged and largely dominated proceedings, controlling possession and restricting Leatherhead’s attacking threat. Chances continued to come, particularly from wide areas, but despite several close-range opportunities, Bedfont were unable to extend their lead.

A forced change saw Ollie Morphew withdrawn, prompting a reshuffle: Kayden dropped into centre-back, Oskar shifted wide, and Ollie Peck was introduced up front to inject fresh energy into the press.

Ollie immediately made an impact, harassing defenders and creating chances through sheer persistence. Although one clear opportunity was lifted narrowly over the bar, his mentality and intensity never dropped.

That pressure told late on. With around five minutes remaining, Bedfont delivered from a wide area, with the ball sliced back across the box to Toby Barnes, whose awkward but effective finish found the net to make it 3–1 with about 5 minutes to play.

Leatherhead responded quickly, pulling a goal back from another crowded corner situation to make it 3–2, setting up a tense final few minutes. Despite the late pressure, Bedfont showed excellent game management, defending resolutely and seeing out the match to secure a vital away victory.

A Strong Start to the Year

The result marks a positive and confidence-boosting start to 2026 for Bedfont Sports U18s, highlighting the group’s resilience, tactical discipline, and growing maturity — particularly from the younger players stepping up at this level.

A performance built on belief, structure, and collective effort, and one that sets a strong platform moving forward.

Looking Ahead

Bedfont Sports U18s now turn their attention to a challenging next fixture against Woking FC Academy, who currently sit 4th in the Isthmian Youth League standings. It promises to be a stern test, but one the group will approach with confidence following a strong and resilient performance on the road at Leatherhead.