A growing injury list is forcing Aldershot to dig deep, but again they ground out a great result on Tuesday night.

Three points at Bedford represented their seventh successive win and they continue to breathe down the necks of St Albans who head the table only on goal difference after losing 3-0 at Hayes.

Aldershot, who have a game in hand, turn their attention to the FA Cup this Saturday and their confidence should be high for the home match with Aylesbury in the second qualifying round.

They included youth coach Martin Kuhl and 18-year-old Brett Cooper in their squad at Bedford and both came off the bench to play a part in Aldershot's stunning win.

Bedord were less than impressed and angrily remonstrated with the referee after the 63rd minute penalty that decided the contest.

They had a point. Adam Parker's bullet-shot may have struck a hand, but it was certainly not deliberate. Roscoe D'Sane stepped up and buried the spot kick for his second goal of the night.

The evening had started well for Bedford who took the lead on 13 minutes. Jason Cousins lost possession and lively striker Carl Williams took full advantage to make it 1-0.

Just two minutes later, Mr Henry awarded a debatable free-kick and D'Sane curled a delightful 25-yard shot into the right-hand corner.

Bedford had most of the pressure leading up to half-time and Stuart Smithers and Kevin Flynn could both have restored the lead.

Terry Brown sent on Cooper and Jamie Taylor for the second half and Aldershot began to look more dangerous.

Karl Ready's strong header brought a good save from Steve Wilson and then D'Sane, released by Taylor, went close with a well-struck shot.

Kuhl joined the action after 51 minutes and the controversial penalty followed as the game turned in Aldershot's favour.

Harsh decision or not, Aldershot defended their lead resolutely, with Kuhl and Ready showing all their experience.

Both veterans could have scored, but Nikki Bull had to stay alert at the other end as Ross Harrison and then Williams forced him into good saves.

Aldershot: Bull, Carroll (Cooper 45 mins), A Charles (Kuhl 51 mins), Ready, Cousins, Sterling, Nutter, L Charles (Taylor 45 mins), Parker, D'Sane, Holsgrove.

Attendance: 692.