Bradford (Park Avenue) battled out a 1-1 draw with Dunston UTS in a tightly contested encounter at Horsfall Community Stadium on Saturday. Both teams, eyeing a surge into the Northern Premier League East Division play-off spots, had to settle for a point in this gritty encounter.
The Green Army started brightly, creating early chances that tested Dunston goalkeeper Dan Lowson. Connor Shanks set up Ben Blythe, whose low drive forced a strong save from Lowson. Moments later, Kareem Hassan-Smith’s inviting cross caused panic in the Dunston defence, narrowly avoiding an own goal.
Avenue’s persistence paid off just after the half-hour mark. Kareem Hassan-Smith, a standout performer on the day, delivered a moment of magic. Driving down the right, he cut inside and unleashed a fierce shot across Lowson, finding the far corner to give Avenue a deserved lead.
However, just before the break, Dunston struck back with their first significant opportunity. Dan Turner equalized with a sublime curling effort from the edge of the box, leaving goalkeeper Jack Hall no chance.
The second half saw both sides push for a winner in a game filled with high energy and commitment. Hassan-Smith continued to torment the Dunston defence, delivering dangerous balls into the box, but the visitors stood firm.
Dunston’s JJ O’Donnell had a chance to turn the game in their favor with a volley, but Hall was equal to it, keeping the game level. Avenue came closest to claiming all three points in the dying stages when Ted Lavelle unleashed a thunderous 25-yard strike, only for Lowson to pull off a stunning save, tipping the ball over the bar.
- Bradford (Park Avenue) are now seventh in the table with 29 points, level with Dunston but trailing on goal difference.
- This draw maintains Avenue’s position within striking distance of the play-off places, with three points separating them from fifth-placed Stocksbridge Park Steels.
What’s Next? Avenue turn their attention to an important away fixture tomorrow night, traveling to face West Yorkshire rivals Ossett United. Kick-off at Ingfield is at 7:45 pm, as Bradford (Park Avenue) look to get back to winning ways against the second-bottom side.