An immense effort from the Hatters saw them take tier-three Real Bedford to a penalty shoot-out where they fell just short.

Myles Maddix made two changes from the side that defeated Actonians last Sunday. Nicole Melling returned to the starting 11 in place of Sarah Hudson in goal, and Natalia Makowska’s fine display in London last Sunday saw her come into the team in place of the suspended Courtnay Ward-Chambers.

As expected, the visitors saw a majority of the ball in the opening stages, although they failed to test Nicole Melling.

Natalia Makowska attempted to steal the ball from Real Bedford as they were playing out the back, but a professional foul from Scarlett Williams prevented the forward from advancing up the pitch.

Lisa Milliken’s delivery from the resulting free-kick was cleared by the Pirates, who were able to regain possession of the ball.

At the other end, Fiona Buttigieg was adjudged to have handled the ball outside the area and the visitors were awarded a free-kick. Issy Bryant’s effort forced a saved from Melling, who was able to tip the ball over the crossbar for a corner.

Half hour in and the Town had their best move of the afternoon. Elizabeth Mulvaney spread the ball out to Chloe Tambula, who sent a perfectly weighted pass down the line for Milliken to run onto, although Real Bedford were able to deal with the full-back’s delivery.

In the final moments of the first half, the Town came close to scoring. An inch-perfect switch from Milliken was taken down by Tasha Fensome, who played Mulvaney in behind the Pirates’ defence, the midfielder then played the ball into the centre of the box, but no Town players were on hand to make work of the opportunity.

The Hatters made one change at the break. It was one ex-Pirate for another, with Amy McLean making way for Emily Wilson.

Grant was inches away from giving Real Bedford the lead, she drove into the box and unleashed an effort which collided with the crossbar.

Makowska, who impressed yet again, was replaced by Amber Leighton with slightly over 20 remaining.

Leighton was straight into the action, she rose highest to head the ball into the direction of Fensome, who saw her tame effort comfortably held.

With the Town remaining firm and soaking up all the pressure from Real Bedford, they were able to hold on, sending the game to penalties.

Real Bedford were first up and the first two rounds of the shoot-out were flawless from both sides, with Tasha Fensome and Andie Dickens converting for the Town.

Nicole Melling then made the first save of the shoot-out, getting down low to deny Puddick. Leighton was the Town’s third penalty taker and she made no mistake putting Luton 3-2 up after three penalties each.

The fourth round of penalties saw Real Bedford score and Leyah Maddix had her penalty saved.

Real Bedford converted their fifth spot-kick. Shianne Swarres saw her effort saved by Meale, sending the Pirates through to the final.

Town: Melling, Blacksley (sub Dickens 90), Swarres, Tambula, Fensome, Mulvaney, Buttigieg, Milliken, Makowska (sub Leighton 67), McLean (sub Wilson 46), Beaufort (sub Maddix 89).

Report: Owen Williams Photos: Duncan Jack