10 Oct 2024

MATCH REPORT: Stocksbridge Park Steels 0-3 Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Attendance: 243
Venue: Bracken Moor

Bradford (Park Avenue) continued their fine form with a dominant 3-0 victory against Stocksbridge Park Steels, securing their fourth consecutive win and third consecutive clean sheet. The result marked a rare defeat for Stocksbridge, their first in the league since August 24th.

The weather conditions were far from ideal, but Avenue adapted quickly. Early in the first half, Jack Normanton fired a shot just over the bar, and moments later, Paddy Sykes had his header dramatically cleared off the line.

Stocksbridge was awarded a penalty in the 24th minute, but Jack Hall, on loan from Sheffield Wednesday, produced a stunning save to keep the game level. Hall made several key saves throughout the match, ensuring his second consecutive clean sheet for the club.

The match changed dramatically in the 72nd minute when Craig Elliott made four substitutions. Just three minutes later, one of the substitutes, Myles La Bastide, opened the scoring with his first goal of the season. He quickly added a second in the 81st minute, giving Avenue a comfortable lead.

Paddy Sykes put the result beyond doubt in the 90th minute, scoring the third goal to secure Avenue’s fourth consecutive victory.

Watch Craig Elliott’s interview following the victory here –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHP3Scbt4VY&t=10s

New signing Will Calligan also spoke on the win –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSqA743MF7A

Goals –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWGjZ3j8ss4

Goalcam –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvDHGsq19o0

Teams:

Stocksbridge Park Steels:
Ben Townsend, Tom Charlesworth, Jack Tinker, Kurtis Turner (C), Elliot Owen, Paul Iggulden, Danny Deakin, Alex O’Connor, Alexander Hardwick, Jack Haslam, Joao Silva.
Substitutes: Jordan Lemon, Ashley Butterworth, Oliwier Grzelak, Daniel Hernandez, James Morris.

Bradford (Park Avenue):
Jack Hall, Josh Ashman, Dan Francis, Luke Hogg (C), Ben Blythe, Mark Beevers, Kareem Hassan-Smith, Sonny Whittingham, Paddy Sykes, Connor Shanks, Jack Normanton.
Substitutes: Myles La Bastide, Joe Crosby, Will Calligan, Harry Colville, Josh Askew.

Goals:

  • Myles La Bastide (75′, 81′)
  • Paddy Sykes (90′)

Substitutions:

  • Harry Colville replaced Sonny Whittingham (72′)
  • Myles La Bastide replaced Jack Normanton (72′)
  • Will Calligan replaced Dan Francis (72′)
  • Daniel Hernandez replaced Joao Silva (72′)
  • James Morris replaced Paul Iggulden (83′)
  • Oliwier Grzelak replaced Danny Deakin (83′)
  • Ashley Butterworth replaced Alex O’Connor (83′)
  • Joe Crosby replaced Connor Shanks (84′)

FULL-TIME: Stocksbridge Park Steels 0-3 Bradford (Park Avenue)

9 Oct 2024

Matchday Preview: Stocksbridge Park Steels vs Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Northern Premier League East – Wednesday, 9th October, 7:45 PM KO

Venue: Bracken Moor Stadium, S36 2AN

Tonight, Bradford (Park Avenue) travel to Stocksbridge Park Steels for a highly anticipated clash in the Northern Premier League East. The match kicks off at 7:45 PM at Bracken Moor Stadium, where both teams will be looking to claim three important points in what promises to be an exciting contest.

Bradford (Park Avenue) come into this match full of confidence, riding the wave of a three-match winning streak. With goals coming from key players such as Connor Shanks (4 goals) and Dan Francis (3 goals), the Avenue will be looking to extend their excellent run of form under manager Craig Elliott.

Meanwhile, Stocksbridge Park Steels, sitting in 6th place with 17 points from 8 matches, will be a tough challenge. Their top scorers, Jack Haslam (8 goals) and Alexander Hardwick (7 goals), have been in fine form and will pose a significant threat to Bradford’s defence. Stocksbridge are coming off the back of a 1-1 FA Trophy draw vs Warrington Rylands, which the opposition won 3-1 in penalties. Prior to their last match however, they pulled off 2-0 and 3-0 home wins against Bridlington Town and Garforth Town respectively.

Both teams are strong going forward, making this a potentially high-scoring affair. However, Bradford’s defence, led by Mark Beevers and Luke Hogg, will need to be at their best to contain the dangerous Stocksbridge attack.

Match Details:

  • Kickoff: 7:45 PM
  • Location: Bracken Moor Stadium, S36 2AN
  • Tickets:
    • Adults: £9
    • Concessions & Students: £7
    • U16s: £3
    • U12s: Free with a paying adult

Key Players to Watch:

  • Connor Shanks (Bradford PA): Avenue’s top scorer will look to add to his tally and lead the team to victory.
  • Jack Haslam (Stocksbridge): With 8 goals this season, Haslam’s threat in front of goal will need careful attention from the Avenue defence.
  • Dan Francis (Bradford PA): A key part of Avenue’s attack, Francis’ creativity and goalscoring ability will be crucial.

Manager’s Perspective:

Bradford (Park Avenue) manager Craig Elliott will be eager to keep the winning streak alive, having recently bolstered the squad with signings like Sonny Whittingham, Ben Blythe, Mark Beevers and the return of Will Calligan. He’ll be keen for his side to start strongly and take control of the game early on.

Final Thoughts:

With both teams in good form, tonight’s match is set to be a thrilling contest. Bradford (Park Avenue) will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run, while Stocksbridge will want to protect their strong start to the season at home. Fans can expect a competitive, action-packed match under the lights at Bracken Moor.

8 Oct 2024

Bradford (Park Avenue) Sign 22-Year-Old Defender Will Calligan

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Bradford (Park Avenue) is pleased to announce the signing of 22-year-old defender Will Calligan, who returns to the club for the remainder of the 24/25 season. Equally adept at playing at full-back or on the wing, Calligan brings versatility and a proven track record of development throughout his career.

Calligan joined Barnsley’s Academy in January 2014, signing as a first-year scholar in July 2018. Comfortable in possession and tenacious in the tackle, Calligan has showcased his ability to seamlessly link defence to attack, and he is composed in front of goal.

His fine performances earned him a couple of appearances for Barnsley’s U23s at the end of the 2018/19 Professional Development League campaign. Notably, he kick-started his first full season at U23s level by scoring on the opening day of the 2020/21 campaign in a hard-fought 2-1 defeat against Nottingham Forest, the reigning champions.

Since he left Bradford (Park Avenue), Will Calligan has had spells at Brighouse Town, Stockport Town, FC United of Manchester, and most recently at Bury FC and Emley on a Dual Registration, continuing to hone his defensive and attacking skills.

On the signing, Manager Craig Elliott:
“I’m delighted to bring Will in as he will give us much-needed balance down the left-hand side.

“He will bring energy and quality deliveries in the final third, which I feel has been lacking since I came in. I know he has been here before and knows a few of the lads, and I see that as a positive so he can settle in quickly.”

Welcome back to the Green Army Will!

6 Oct 2024

Match Report: Garforth Town 0-1 Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Saturday, October 5th, 2024 | Attendance: 496

Bradford (Park Avenue) secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory away to Garforth Town, with a spectacular second-half volley from Connor Shanks proving to be the difference.

The match started with an early moment of controversy in the 4th minute when Shanks went down in the box, but the referee waved away appeals for a penalty. Bradford (Park Avenue) continued to press, with Jack Normanton firing a free kick over the bar in the 9th minute.

The visitors created further chances as Normanton tried to play Shanks in on goal in the 15th minute, only for the forward to be flagged offside. Garforth responded quickly and won a corner from the resulting free kick, but their header sailed harmlessly over the bar.

As the first half progressed, Avenue began to take control, playing some positive football. Sonny Whittingham looked to play Kareem Hassan-Smith in on the 29th minute, but his ball ran out of play. Despite some promising moments, both sides went into half-time with the score still 0-0.

Half-time: Garforth Town 0-0 Bradford (Park Avenue)

The second half began with Luke Hogg picking up a booking, but Avenue soon made the breakthrough. In the 52nd minute, a long ball from new signing Jack Hall found Paddy Sykes, who flicked it on with his head. After a touch from the opposition, the ball dropped kindly to Normanton, who hooked it over to Shanks. The forward unleashed a stunning volley that flew into the net, giving Avenue a 1-0 lead.

Bradford (Park Avenue) made a series of substitutions as the game wore on, with Joe Crosby replacing Whittingham in the 71st minute, followed by James Hanson coming on for Normanton in the 78th minute. Despite Garforth’s efforts to get back into the match, the Avenue defence, marshalled by the experienced Mark Beevers, stood firm.

A final substitution saw Theo Hudson replace the goalscorer, Shanks, in the 87th minute as Avenue looked to see out the game.

Bradford (Park Avenue) held on to their slender lead, securing all three points and moving further up the table. Garforth, despite their efforts, couldn’t break through the solid defensive unit.

Full-time: Garforth Town 0-1 Bradford (Park Avenue)
Goal: Shanks (52′)

Bradford (Park Avenue) Starting XI:

Jack Hall, Josh Ashman, Dan Francis, Luke Hogg (C), Ben Blythe, Mark Beevers, Connor Shanks, Sonny Whittingham, Paddy Sykes, Jack Normanton, Kareem Hassan-Smith
Substitutes: Joe Crosby, James Hanson, Josh Askew, Theo Hudson, Myles La Bastide

Garforth Town Starting XI:

Harry Flatters, Rinor Ejupi, Max Tweddle, Dexter Ball, Harry Viggars (C), Jamie Barkway, Charlie Marshall, Dan Coupland, Jordan Emery, Matt Savage, Matt Antcliff
Substitutes: Joe Smith, James Burgess, Jay Davis, Alex Zachariou, Max Bauer

Next Match:

Bradford (Park Avenue) face another tough away fixture as they travel to Stocksbridge Park Steels on Wednesday, 9th October, with a 7:45pm kick-off at Bracken Moor Stadium (2 Bracken Moor Ln, Stocksbridge, Sheffield S36 2AN). After three consecutive wins, Craig Elliott’s squad is looking more settled with each game, and they’ll be aiming to extend their winning run.

4 Oct 2024

Welcome, Jack Hall!

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Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC are delighted to announce the signing of promising goalkeeper Jack Hall on a short-term loan from Sheffield Wednesday.

A prominent feature between the sticks for Sheffield Wednesday’s U21 side, Jack also brings international experience after making his debut for England U18s in 2021 where he kept a clean sheet in a 3-0 victory against Russia, before signing a professional contract with Sheffield Wednesday in July 2024, where he has spent a lot of time training with the first-team squad as of late.

Manager Craig Elliott was delighted with the loan signing: “Really happy to get Jack on board. He’s highly rated at Sheffield Wednesday and we are lucky to be able to bring him in. I’m looking forward to seeing him progress with us.”

We would like to thank Sheffield Wednesday for their cooperation and assistance in getting this signing over the line.

Jack will go straight into the squad for tomorrows Northern Premier League (East) fixture against Garforth Town.

Welcome to the club, Jack!

3 Oct 2024

Join us for our Development Fund Sportsman Evening!

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We’re excited to announce a special night in partnership with A&G Wainwright Joiners & Contractors on Friday 1st November 2024, at the Midland Hotel Bradford (BD1 4HU) from 7pm onwards.

The evening will feature a 3-course meal, a raffle, and an auction, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a great night of entertainment and support a fantastic cause!

🎤 Our guest speaker for the evening is Bradford City legend and current Bradford (Park Avenue) player James Hanson, and he will be joined by comedian Martin Gold to keep the laughter flowing!

This event is proudly sponsored by Mr Scratchings, and all proceeds go to our Development Fund to help grow and support our club.

📞 Book your place now!

  • £40 per head
  • £350 for a table of 10

For further information or to reserve your spot, contact Dave Stordy on 01274 512989 or via email at davestordy@hotmail.co.uk.

Don’t miss out on what promises to be a fantastic evening!

3 Oct 2024

Match Preview: Garforth Town vs Bradford (Park Avenue)

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This Saturday, 5th October, Bradford (Park Avenue) heads to the Bannister Prentice Community Stadium to face Garforth Town in a highly anticipated league clash. Kickoff is at 3:00 pm, and both teams will be eager to secure a crucial victory.

Garforth Town has had a season filled with ups and downs. They started strongly with a 2-0 win over Northallerton in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round and followed it up with a convincing 3-0 victory over Liversedge in their opening league match. A goalless draw at Consett and a dramatic 3-2 replay win against Heaton Stannington in the FA Cup Preliminary Round showcased their ability to grind out results.

In the league, Garforth impressed with a 2-2 draw against Pontefract Collieries and a 3-1 victory over Carlton Town. However, they’ve faced setbacks in the FA Cup and FA Trophy, suffering losses to Bury and Wythenshawe, respectively. Most recently, they were defeated 3-0 by Stocksbridge Park Steels, a result they’ll be keen to bounce back from.

Bradford (Park Avenue) will be looking to build on their recent 2-0 win against Heaton Stannington, with goals from Jack Normanton and Connor Shanks. Head coach Craig Elliott will be pushing his team to carry that momentum into this away fixture as they seek another valuable three points.

With recent signings Mark Beevers and Sonny Whittingham adding strength to the squad, Bradford (Park Avenue) is looking more solid at the back and dynamic going forward. The likes of Jack Normanton and Joe Crosby will be looking to create problems for Garforth’s defence, while Connor Shanks continues his fine form in front of goal.

Match Details

  • Fixture: Garforth Town vs Bradford (Park Avenue)
  • Date: Saturday, 5th October 2024
  • Kickoff: 3:00 pm
  • Venue: Bannister Prentice Community Stadium, Cedar Ridge, Garforth (LS25 2PF)

Admission Prices:

  • Adults: £9
  • Concessions: £6
  • U16s: £3
  • U5s: FREE
  • Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children): £20

This match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams hungry for victory. Make sure to come down and support the lads as Bradford (Park Avenue) looks to continue their winning form on the road!

30 Sep 2024

Bradford (Park Avenue) Sign Defender Ben Blythe

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Bradford (Park Avenue) are delighted to announce the signing of defender Ben Blythe on a deal until the end of the season. Born in Leeds, Blythe brings with him a wealth of experience from across multiple leagues, having honed his skills at both Doncaster Rovers and Swansea City.

Blythe first made a name for himself in the 2019-20 season, when he captained Doncaster Rovers’ under-18s to their first league title since the formation of their academy. His leadership and defensive prowess earned him a professional contract in July 2020.

Ben made his senior debut for Doncaster Rovers in May 2021 in a League One match against Peterborough United. Shortly thereafter, he gained additional first-team experience on loan at Farsley Celtic in the National League North. Following his return, Blythe made his first league start for Doncaster, facing Oxford United.

In March 2022, Ben joined Swansea City’s U23 side after impressing during a trial period. While with Swansea, he enjoyed a productive loan spell at Barry Town in the Cymru Premier, making 22 appearances and contributing with two goals and two assists.

Blythe’s versatility and experience will strengthen Bradford (Park Avenue)’s defensive options, and we are excited to see him bring his skills and leadership qualities to Horsfall Stadium.

Speaking on the signing, Head Coach Craig Elliott said:

“I have known about Ben for a good few years and followed his career after he left Doncaster Rovers to move to Swansea city.

“He is a talented player hungry to do well. As a cultured left footed defender he Will give us good balance. I am delighted our patience paid off and he will be a big asset to us this season.”

Welcome to Bradford (Park Avenue), Ben Blythe!

29 Sep 2024

MATCH REPORT: Bradford (Park Avenue) 2-0 Heaton Stannington

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Craig Elliott’s first home fixture in charge of his new-look squad ended in triumph as Bradford (Park Avenue) secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Heaton Stannington at the Horsfall Community Stadium. The win, highlighted by early goals from Jack Normanton and Connor Shanks, pushed Avenue up to 11th in the table with 10 points from 7 matches.

Avenue wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, finding the net within the opening minute. A miscommunication in Heaton Stannington’s defence saw Normanton, making his league debut, pounce on the loose ball and trickle it past the goalkeeper to give the hosts an early 1-0 lead. This marked Normanton’s second goal in as many games, showcasing his immediate impact on the team.

Just four minutes later, Avenue doubled their advantage. A clever pass down the line from Dan Francis found Paddy Sykes, who whipped a low cross into the box, leaving Connor Shanks with a simple tap-in to make it 2-0 by the 5th minute.

Bradford (Park Avenue) continued to press, with Shanks nearly adding another in the 17th minute from a dangerous free kick, but Heaton Stannington’s defence managed to clear. Normanton remained a constant threat, breaking in behind in the 20th minute and testing the visitors’ goalkeeper, Lewis Brass, who was forced to make a low save at the near post.

A mistake by Brass in the 24th minute almost led to another opportunity for Normanton, but the keeper recovered just in time to deny the forward a second. The visitors then had their first meaningful chance in the 27th minute, but Ed Hall made a comfortable save from a cross into the area.

As the half wore on, Avenue continued to press. In the 33rd minute, Sykes had a header on target from a corner, but Brass was once again equal to the task, forcing another corner that came to nothing. Heaton Stannington had another opportunity in the 40th minute, but their strike was straight into Hall’s gloves.

Second Half Control

The second half saw Myles La Bastide come on for Oli Norman as Avenue aimed to maintain their dominance. In the 63rd minute, Normanton thought he’d added to his tally, only to be flagged offside before his shot came off.

James Hanson replaced Normanton in the 70th minute, with La Bastide coming close to his first goal of the season just three minutes later, but his effort was saved brilliantly by Brass. Sonny Whittingham was also replaced by Joe Crosby as Avenue sought fresh legs to close out the game.

Heaton Stannington showed flashes of attacking intent, with Lamb sending a shot from the edge of the box over the bar in the 75th minute. However, Avenue continued to create chances, with Crosby forcing a brilliant save in the 82nd minute after some slick passing play.

In the 84th minute, Sykes came close to a third for Avenue, heading goalwards only for Brass to parry it away. The rebound fell to Mark Beevers, but his follow-up shot narrowly missed the target.

The final whistle blew with Avenue taking all three points from a comfortable 2-0 win, keeping a clean sheet and putting them in 11th place on the table. Craig Elliott’s new signings, including Josh Ashman, Mark Beevers, Sonny Whittingham, and the goalscoring Jack Normanton, all made a solid impression in their league debuts, offering plenty of promise for the weeks ahead.

Bradford (Park Avenue) will now head back on the road for their next two fixtures, starting with a trip to Garforth Town on Saturday, 5th October. This will be followed by a midweek clash against Stocksbridge Park Steels on Wednesday night.

28 Sep 2024

TODAYS MATCHDAY PROGRAMME! vs Heaton Stannington

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Get Your Matchday Programme Today – Available in the Horton Park Suite or Clubhouse for Just £3!

We’re excited to announce that today’s 36-page Matchday Programme is packed with all the latest content and is available for purchase in limited quantities in the Horton Park Suite or Clubhouse for just £3!

This edition is filled with everything you need to stay up-to-date with Bradford (Park Avenue)’s 2024/25 campaign, including:

•   Up-to-date statistics from our season so far: goals, yellow/red cards, substitutions, and more.
•   Exclusive notes from First Team Manager Craig Elliott, Sporting Director Thomas McStravick, Director Paul Armitage, and much-loved club historian Tim Clapham.
•   Stunning photography from John Rhodes, capturing the best moments of all our seasons.
•   Scholars Updates from Coach Owen Murphy, shining a spotlight on the next generation of Avenue stars.
•   Junior Updates with Junior & PC Lead Gary Ratnik, offering insights into our ever-growing youth setup.

This programme is a must-have for any Avenue supporter, whether you’re a collector or just looking to get the full matchday experience. With limited quantities available, make sure to grab your copy early and show your support for the Green Army!

Come on Avenue!