Burnham fall at the semi-final hurdle against Bedfont Sports

Burnham FC. Photo: Glenn Alcock

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Bedfont Sports 2, Burnham 1

Burnham's campaign finally came to an end last night (Tuesday) as the Blues were beaten 2-1 by Bedfont Sports in the semi-finals of the Premier Challenge Cup.

Having got the better of Combined Counties Premier Division North champions Flackwell Heath in the quarterfinals, Ben Murray's side headed into last night's clash at the Bedfont Recreation Ground still hopeful of silverware this season.

But a close, competitive, final four clash went the way of the hosts who scored twice in the final 15 minutes after the Blues were reduced to 10 men in the first half.

Michal Waraksa grabbed a late consolation for Burnham in the dying seconds, but they couldn’t force the tie to spot-kicks in the time that remained.

Elliott Poley was the man to see red in the first half when he committed a foul as the last man.

In the competition's other semi-final, Virginia Water defeated Langley 5-1 and will take on Bedfont for the Challenge Cup at Sheerwater FC on Saturday (May 18).

Jack Mills (two), Turnell Sinclair and Casey Bocarro were on target for Virginia Water in their victory.

After last night's tie, Burnham ‘posted on X: “Good luck to Bedfont Sports in the final. A couple of good saves from Carl Dennison and a great goal from Michal but legs tired in the last 20 minutes which was understandable.

“Thanks to all those who came to support the Blues tonight.”

It's been a case of so close, yet so far for Burnham this season, with the side missing out on a place in the league's play-offs to rivals Holyport by just three points after losing their last four matches.

Last Wednesday, the Blues scored three first half goals as they claimed a deserved 3-1 quarterfinal win over Flackwell to set up last night’s tie with Bedfont Sports. Jamie Mitchell and Jaiden Celestine-Charles (two) were on target.