Barnet Ladies have appointed Lydia Bedford as their new manager after Tracey Kevins stepped down from her post to take charge of the LA Strikers in the USA.

Bedford joined Barnet in 2007 and played for the club for three years before becoming assistant manager in the 2010/11 season.

Kevins had already said that she would leave the Bees at the end of February to take up her new post, but announced that she would leave early to allow Bedford to take charge of the FAWPL National Division fixture at Coventry City.

Steve Miller, owner of the LA Strikers said: “We are ecstatic about having coach Kevins come across the pond to work with us in these positions. I can’t wait to see where she takes this organisation – given her record, she doesn’t like to lose.”

During her time as manager, Kevins won 11 trophies, reached two FA Women’s Cup semi-finals, was named Manager of the Year at the FA Women’s Football Awards in 2010 and did the treble in 2005/06.

In 2011, she guided Barnet to the FA Women’s Premier League Cup and has also coached Wealdstone’s Under-18s boys side in an FA Youth Cup tie at Anfield in 2004.

A UEFA ‘A’ licensed coach, Kevins has also been part of the England national team’s coaching staff since 2004.

Kevins’ final match in charge of the Bees saw a disappointing end to her tenure as they crashed out of the FA Women’s Cup following a 3-0 defeat against Yeovil Town.

Mai Konno and Kaylie Clark-Koentopp were both handed their Bees debuts, while Leanne Reidy made her 100th appearance for the club.

However, Yeovil had all but secured their place in the next round by half-time after racing into a 3-0 lead inside 32 minutes.

Chontelle Lawrence should have won the hosts a penalty when she was felled inside the penalty area but nothing was given.