Riley O'Sullivan nets screamer as Harborough Town and Real Bedford play out eight-goal thriller
Riley O’Sullivan netted a brace as Harborough Town drew 4-4 in an eight-goal pre-season thriller against Real Bedford last weekend.
The Bees were reunited with their old Southern League Premier Central promotion rivals at the Ledger Stadium and produced 90 minutes of pure entertainment.
Mitch Austin’s side took just five minutes to take a 1-0 lead as O’Sullivan won a penalty and converted from the spot.
Harborough made it 2-0 on 18 minutes as Tyrell Pennant whipped in off the post after O’Sullivan and a trialist linked up well on the edge of the box.
But the Bees’ strong start was in vain as Real Bedford struck a quickfire double to level up the scoring, Connor Tee netting first before Ben Stevens scored a penalty.
Harborough responded well after half-time, regaining their lead as Rory ‘Scorey’ McAuley headed in for 3-2 from a Connor Kennedy long throw.
It was then time for O’Sullivan to shine midway through the second period as he made it 4-2 with a stunning second goal of the afternoon.
The attacking midfielder took one deft touch over his shoulder, let the ball bounce twice and struck it with venom from 25 yards, finding the top left-hand corner.
Despite gaining confidence from that rocket of a half-volley, Harborough once again gave up a two-goal lead.
Real Bedford made it 4-3 through Tee after a superb run and clinical finish before the Pirates levelled the score in the final moments.
Had this been a competitive fixture, Harborough would have been disappointed to have given up the win.
But, in reality, this was the perfect way to mark the second game of pre-season as the Bees could rotate throughout and enjoyed an intense test against old foes.
Harborough were due to return to the Beehive on Tuesday, July 14, to take on Coventry United (see details online).
The Bees then take on Chesham United at home on Saturday, July 18.