21 Oct 2024

Bradford (Park Avenue) Secure 3-1 Victory at Consett to Climb Back into Play-Off Spots – Match Report

Bradford (Park Avenue) continued their impressive form in the Northern Premier League East Division on Saturday, claiming a 3-1 win over Consett AFC on Saturday. The victory not only extended their unbeaten run to six games (five wins and a draw) but also pushed them back into the play-off places, and put the Green Army at the top of the form table.

The match began with the hosts threatening early, as Will Constantin managed to break into the box, only to be denied by on-loan Avenue goalkeeper Jack Hall, who reacted sharply to keep the scores level.

Avenue responded swiftly and made the most of some sloppy defending from Consett. Connor Shanks capitalized on a defensive error but saw his initial effort saved by Harry Moss. However, the breakthrough came after 14 minutes when Shanks headed home a superb delivery from Paddy Sykes, leaving Moss with no chance.

Sykes then turned from provider to scorer just before half-time, punishing another defensive lapse by slotting the ball home with a composed finish to double Avenue’s lead and give the visitors a comfortable cushion heading into the break.

Consett came out strong in the second half, earning a penalty shortly after the restart when Will Shaw was fouled in the area. Brandon Holdsworth stepped up to convert the spot-kick, giving the home side hope of a comeback.

However, Craig Elliott’s men showed their resilience and were determined to secure all three points. Avenue’s steelier mentality was evident as they weathered Consett’s pressure and continued to pose a threat on the counter.

The decisive moment came with just under 10 minutes left on the clock when Jimiel Chikukwa played a perfectly weighted through ball to Sykes, who smashed it past Moss to net his second goal of the game and seal the victory for Avenue.

The win sees Avenue move up to fifth in the table on 23 points, just one point behind second-placed Cleethorpes Town after Belper Town suffered a setback.

Next up, Bradford (Park Avenue) return to the Horsfall Community Stadium on Tuesday night for a top-of-the-table clash against league leaders Emley AFC. With the potential to close the gap to just three points off the summit, Avenue face a tough challenge against a high-flying Emley side that has lost just once in the league this season and boasts the division’s best attack and defense.

Come on down and back the boys as they look to continue their superb run and climb the table!

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16 Oct 2024

MATCH REPORT: Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-1 Carlton Town

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

Venue: Horsfall Community Stadium
Attendance: 256
Referee: Jack Churchill
Competition: Northern Premier League – East Division

Bradford (Park Avenue) were held to a 1-1 draw against Carlton Town in a lively contest at Horsfall Community Stadium. An early goal from Dan Francis gave Avenue the lead, but Lewis Durow equalized for Carlton before the break to ensure both sides took a share of the points.

First Half:

Bradford (Park Avenue) got off to the perfect start, with Dan Francis finding the back of the net in the 6th minute. A corner from Connor Shanks was headed back across goal by Paddy Sykes, and Francis was on hand to convert with a diving header.

Carlton responded with a spell of pressure, with a goal-line clearance denying them an equalizer after a dangerous long throw caused havoc in the Avenue box. The match maintained a high tempo, and Jack Normanton’s cross in the 26th minute nearly doubled the lead, but it went agonizingly untouched. Shortly after, Paddy Sykes headed just wide from another Francis cross.

Carlton equalized in the 44th minute when Lewis Durow volleyed home following a corner, sending the teams into halftime level at 1-1.

Second Half:

The second half saw Bradford pushing hard to regain the lead. Ben Blythe went close with a header from a corner early on, but Carlton’s defense stood firm.

Avenue had more opportunities, with Will Calligan firing a powerful effort that was turned behind for a corner in the 62nd minute. Paddy Sykes was unlucky when his header hit the post in the 68th minute, but the referee halted play for a foul on Carlton goalkeeper Felix Annan.

Despite continued pressure and some late chances, including a near-winner from Paddy Sykes in stoppage time, Bradford couldn’t find the decisive goal.

Full-Time: Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-1 Carlton Town

Post-Match Reaction: Manager Craig Elliott commented after the game, “I’m happy with a point. Carlton have one of the best throws in the league, and we handled it well. A few weeks ago, we might have lost this game, so to keep our unbeaten run going is a positive.”

Bradford (Park Avenue):
1 Jack Hall, 2 Kareem Hassan-Smith, 3 Dan Francis, 4 Luke Hogg (C), 5 Ben Blythe, 6 Mark Beevers, 7 Jack Normanton (Joe Crosby 85′), 8 Sonny Whittingham (Connor Dimaio 75’), 9 Paddy Sykes, 10 Connor Shanks, 11 Will Calligan (Josh Ashman 75’)
Substitutes: 12 Josh Ashman, 14 Joe Crosby, 15 Connor Dimaio, 16 Oli Norman, 17 Ben Whelan

Carlton Town:
1 Felix Annan, 2 Shea Thompson-Harris (Lawrence Stewart Gorman 76′), 3 Lewis Durow, 4 Daniel Brown (C), 5 Dean Freeman, 6 Michael Ford (Niall Davie 65’), 7 Alex Howes, 8 Charlie Carter, 9 Liam Moran (Luca Alanzi 65’), 10 Oliver Clark, 11 Niall Hylton (Neo Saunders 76′)
Substitutes: 12 Neo Saunders, 14 Lawrence Stewart Gorman, 15 Niall Davie, 16 Luca Alanzi, 17 Zac Hill

Next Fixtures:

Saturday, 19th October: Away to Consett AFC at Belle View Stadium, Delves Lane, Consett DH8 7BF. To book coach travel for just £15 a seat, please get in touch with Secretary@bpafc.com
Tuesday, 22nd October: Home vs Emley AFC at Horsfall Community Stadium.

The unbeaten run continues for Bradford (Park Avenue), who will now focus on their upcoming away fixture against Consett AFC this weekend.

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14 Oct 2024

Match Report: Bradford (Park Avenue) 2-1 Sheffield FC

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

Venue: Horsfall Community Stadium
Date: Saturday, 12th October 2024
Competition: Northern Premier League East Division

Bradford (Park Avenue) made it four wins in a row with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sheffield FC on a rainy afternoon at Horsfall Community Stadium. Goals from Paddy Sykes and Ben Blythe were enough to secure the win, despite a late effort from Sheffield’s Bradley Beatson to reduce the deficit.

First Half:

The match started on a scrappy note with neither side able to create any significant chances in the opening minutes. It wasn’t until the 13th minute that Sheffield posed their first threat, as Connor Cutts delivered a dangerous cross that was expertly cleared by Mark Beevers. Bradford responded swiftly, with Sonny Whittingham’s volley flying over the bar after capitalizing on a poor clearance by Sheffield keeper Edd Hall.

As the half progressed, both teams began to find their rhythm. Sheffield had a golden opportunity in the 20th minute, but Reece Fielding’s free header sailed wide, much to Bradford’s relief. Dan Francis was fouled just outside the box in the 30th minute, but the resulting free kick was well defended by Sheffield.

The breakthrough finally came five minutes from half-time when Paddy Sykes reacted quickest after Jack Normanton’s effort was parried by Hall. Sykes made no mistake from close range, slotting home to give Bradford a 1-0 lead heading into the break.

Second Half:

Bradford came out with confidence in the second half, creating chances early on. Connor Shanks and Whittingham linked up beautifully in the 53rd minute, with Shanks firing just wide of the post. The hosts continued to apply pressure, and it paid off in the 70th minute when Ben Blythe doubled the lead. Myles La Bastide’s free kick was pushed out by Hall, but Blythe was on hand to bundle the ball over the line, making it 2-0.

Sheffield responded by making a string of substitutions in the closing stages, but Bradford continued to control the match. Joe Crosby came close to adding a third goal in the 85th minute, only for his shot to be deflected wide for a corner.

Late Drama:

With the clock winding down, Sheffield managed to pull one back in the 89th minute. Bradley Beatson headed in from a set piece, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and setting up a nervy finish for the hosts. Bradford defended resolutely in the final moments, and despite six minutes of added time, they held on to secure another crucial victory.

Manager, Player & Director Reactions:

After the match, Bradford’s First Team Manager Craig Elliott was delighted with the team’s performance, saying:

“Always happy to win games of football. It’s been a good week for us, four wins on the trot and three wins this week. The only disappointment was conceding at the end – it would have been nice to have four clean sheets in a row, but I can’t complain too much. The conditions were tough, and I’m really happy for the lads and the way we played.”

Sporting Director Thomas McStravick also praised the team’s progress under Elliott, adding:

“The gaffer has put his stamp on the group, and we are moving in the right direction. It’s great to see so many people smiling around the club. A lot of football to be played and plenty of ups and downs ahead of us. Tuesday will be a very tough game, but we’re looking forward to it.”

Final Thoughts:

This victory marks Bradford (Park Avenue)’s fourth consecutive win, solidifying their position at the top of the Northern Premier League East Division. Despite conceding late, the team will take confidence from their recent run of form as they prepare for Tuesday’s clash against Carlton Town.

Full-Time: Bradford (Park Avenue) 2-1 Sheffield FC
Scorers: Avenue: Sykes (40′), Blythe (70′); Sheffield: Beatson (89′)

Attendance: 392

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10 Oct 2024

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

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

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)

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17 Sep 2023

Bradford (Park Avenue) force Blyth Spartans into FA Cup Replay at Horsfall Community Stadium, Monday 18th September, KO 7:45pm

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, News | 0

Bradford (Park Avenue) battled it out with Blyth Spartans on Saturday afternoon at Croft Park, producing an exciting FA Cup showdown that ended in a hard-fought 1-1 draw. The result has set the stage for an eagerly anticipated second qualifying round replay at the Horsfall Stadium on Monday evening.

Kick Off is at 7:45pm, and gates open at 6:30pm. Adults will pay just £13 entry, Concessions are in at £10, Students with a valid ID pay just £5, Youth (12-17) is just £3, and u12s go completely free!

MATCH REPORT –

The match kicked off with both teams showing their intent to get on the front foot. Blyth Spartans, led by Graham Fenton, initiated the action, with Will McGowan’s involvement instrumental in crafting two early attacks. However, these promising openings failed to materialise into a real threat on George Sykes-Kenworthy’s goal.

Bradford (Park Avenue) faced an early setback when Jak Whiting had to be substituted due to injury in the 13th minute, with Lewis Hey stepping in.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 22nd minute when persistent work from Elliot Forbes on the right flank allowed him to deliver an enticing cross into the penalty area. The ensuing scramble saw Jack Bodenham unleash a venomous left-footed strike into the bottom left corner, leaving Sykes-Kenworthy with no chance.

As the first half progressed, JJ Hooper had a fantastic opportunity to double the lead but narrowly missed the target with a header from a Michael Liddle cross. Moments later, Alex Mitchell was forced into a terrific point-blank save by Will Longbottom.

Avenue continued to grow into the game, with Jordan Preston narrowly missing the target after a set-piece situation and Cedric Main steering a strike wide of the far corner. However, Spartans held their 1-0 lead going into halftime.

Half-time: Blyth Spartans 1-0 Bradford (Park Avenue)

The second half kicked off with a flowing move in the early minutes, but Main failed to connect cleanly with his shot. Bradford’s Brad Dockerty then came close to equalising, hitting the side netting from an acute angle in the penalty area.

Cedric Main had several attempts for Blyth Spartans but couldn’t find the target, including a lofted effort and a powerful strike over the crossbar. As the match progressed, momentum shifted in favour of Bradford (Park Avenue).

Alex Mitchell made a sharp low save to deny Preston before having to be alert again to keep out the Park Avenue number 10. Preston continued to threaten and, on the 74th minute, glanced a header off the post from close range after connecting with Harry Colville’s cross.

In the 82nd minute, Bradford (Park Avenue) found their equaliser in an unconventional manner. Harry Colville’s first-time cross-cum-shot from 35 yards on the right-hand side looped over Alex Mitchell to level the scoreline.

As the match concluded, both Main and substitute Harry Arnison had golden opportunities to test Sykes-Kenworthy, but they couldn’t find the target.

The encounter finished level, setting the stage for a replay on Monday evening at the Horsfall Stadium.

Full-time: Blyth Spartans 1-1 Bradford (Park Avenue)

Referee: Elliott Swallow

Attendance: 699

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8 Jul 2023

MATCH REPORT – Thackley Pre-Season (H)

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

Our first outing of the 23/24 season came against Thackley FC in a friendly-match at Horsfall Stadium.

There were quite a few trialists on the team-sheet for Bradford, with a lot of them earning valuable game-time and showing lots of potential for Mark Bower, who looks on towards a promising season for the Avenue.

It didn’t take long for the home side to get the ball rolling, two-minutes on the clock and a corner was swung in which bounced and bobbled around before Mitch Lund fired the ball into the roof of the net.

Bradford continued to pile on the pressure throughout the downpour, which slowed the pace of the game temporarily.

Thackley had a few shots from distance but none of them were close enough to trouble Liam Hall in the Avenue goal.

Luca Havern doubled Park Avenue’s lead after hitting a powerful strike from inside the box beyond Thackley’s goalkeeper.

Thackley struggled to get a foot hold in the game and maintain a rhythm, leaving Avenue’s to exploit the space created.

A strong run from Myles La Bastide saw him brought down on the edge of the box, Will Longbottom scored a delightful free-kick to give Bower’s side a 3-0 lead at half-time.

As expected the team was heavily rotated at half-time with only Liam Hall and Zak Kersey keeping their places.

There were plenty of opportunities for Bradford to add to the scoreline throughout the second half but the chances went begging.

Thackley did manage to get a consolation goal just past the hour-mark, after the cross came in and the header was glanced in from close range.

Full-time: (3-1) BPA v Thackley FC

Attendance: 187

Bradford (Park Avenue) are next in action against Campion FC at Scotchman Road on July 11th with a 7:45pm kick-off.

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2 May 2023

MATCH REPORT – AFC Fylde (H)

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

In a crucial game for both teams, Bradford (Park Avenue) hosted AFC Fylde at the Horsfall Stadium in a match that would decide their respective fates. For Avenue, it was a last chance to avoid relegation, while Fylde also needed to secure all three points to confirm their promotion. The game started off with Avenue on the front foot, winning a corner within the first five minutes, but Fylde keeper Chris Neal claimed it comfortably.

However, it was Fylde who opened the scoring in the 36th minute through Nick Haughton, who scored a scrappy goal. Until that point, Bradford had looked strong, defending well and creating chances where possible, but the confidence gained from scoring the opener saw Fylde dominating the chances. The first half ended with Fylde leading 1-0, with Avenue having it all to do in the second half.

As the second half began, Avenue started creating chances, with La-Bastide crossing one over for Longbottom, which was called just offside, and Sam Fielding striking a powerful shot that flew over the bar. Will Lancaster also had a great chance, striking just inside the box, but Neal made the save. Despite the pressure, it was Fylde who scored the crucial second goal in the 65th minute, with Joe Rowley scoring a low shot to beat Avenue keeper Sykes-Kenworthy.

Avenue made changes in the second half, with Brad Dockerty coming on at half-time for Simon Richman, followed by Oli Johnson in the 69th minute for La-Bastide, and finally Zak Kersey coming on for Harrison Hopper.

However, it was too little too late, as Fylde’s defence held strong and the game ended with Avenue unable to find the back of the net.

The final whistle blew, and relegation was confirmed for Bradford (Park Avenue), while AFC Fylde celebrated on the pitch, securing their promotion.

While it was a disappointing end to the season for Bradford (Park Avenue), they can hold their heads high for taking the fight all the way to the last game in their bid to avoid relegation.

In the final stretch of the season, they were unbeaten in six games, including impressive wins against Southport, Banbury, and Alfreton.

Though they ultimately fell short in their quest to stay in the division, their spirited performances in the latter stages of the campaign will give them confidence as they prepare for life in the Northern Premier League next season.

You can watch the highlights on the link below.

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27 Apr 2023

MATCH REPORT – Bradford (Park Avenue) 3 – 0 Alfreton Town

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

Bradford (Park Avenue) put on a dominant performance in last nights match against Alfreton Town, winning 3-0 and securing a crucial three points in their fight against relegation. The first half saw Bradford take control early on, with a goal in the 5th minute from Will Longbottom. Sam Fielding initially struck the ball, but it was blocked by the keeper, only for Longbottom to pounce on the rebound and slot it into the back of the net.

Bradford continued to press, and in the 35th minute, they were rewarded with another goal, this time from Sam Fielding. From around 50 yards out, Fielding struck a free kick that sailed past the Alfreton keeper and into the top corner of the net, leaving the opposition stunned.

Not content with a two-goal lead, Bradford pushed forward, and in the 42nd minute, they were able to increase their advantage yet again. Longbottom showed his skill by curling a corner ball into the net, leaving the keeper with no chance to save it. With a commanding 3-0 lead going into halftime, Bradford were in control of the match.

In the second half, Alfreton tried to mount a comeback, but Bradford’s defence held strong, preventing them from finding the back of the net. The home team was able to comfortably finish the match with a clean sheet and three points, which could prove vital in their fight against relegation.

Overall, it was a dominant performance from Bradford (Park Avenue), who will look to build on this victory as they strive to secure their place in the league for next season.

You can watch the full highlights below.

Our next match is against AFC Fylde, on Saturday 29th April. Kick Off 3pm, make sure you’re there #GreenArmy! You can read the preview for this game on the link below.

Match Preview Double-Header – Alfreton Town (H) and AFC Fylde (H)

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14 Feb 2023

Three the magic number for Avenue against nine-man Leamington.

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

Bradford (Park Avenue) took a big step away from the relegation zone on Saturday as they secured an emphatic 3-1 victory at home against fellow strugglers Leamington.

The Avenue came into the game under immense pressure following back-to-back away defeats and a run of eight games without a victory dating back to early December. However, any nerves were soon dispelled after 25 minutes as Will Longbottom rounded off a superb passing move by firing a powerful effort beyond Leamington goalkeeper Ted Cann.

Bradford continued to assert their influence on the game and deep into first half added time Brad Dockerty doubled their advantage, latching onto a great through ball and firing his effort with fine precision into the bottom corner to send the Avenue into the break two goals to the good.

Sensing blood, the Green Army were quick out of the blocks after the interval and almost found a third when Harrison Hopper’s effort crashed back off the crossbar.

Any chances of Leamington finding a way back into the game seemed lost just before the hour mark when captain Jack Edwards received a second yellow for a late tackle on Mitchell Lund. The Brakes’ skipper was cautioned in the first half for an elbow on Jamie Spencer, a challenge which many in Avenue colours thought worthy of a dismissal itself.

With 20 minutes remaining the visitors found themselves reduced to nine men, a dangerous tackle from Louis Hall on Hopper deemed worthy of a straight red by the referee who showed no hesitation in dismissing the Leamington defender.

Undeterred by the rough tackle, it didn’t take long for Hopper to return to the thick of the action. Just a minute later the Avenue midfielder notched his side’s third of the afternoon after some great work from the industrious forward Eddie Church to find his teammate.

The Avenue took the three-goal lead as an opportunity to try and close the game out by keeping hold of possession, but their defence were undone in the final ten minutes by a rare Leamington attack. Dan Meredith produced a fine run down the right for the visitors, cutting back to Devon Kelly-Evans for a tap-in and a consolation goal.

After the game, Avenue boss Mark Bower was quick to praise his side’s performance, saying “we were really really good, I thought we moved the ball well and caused them problems”.

Bower also recognised the effort of his players prior to the two Leamington dismissals, adding: “whilst the last 20 to 25 minutes were not particularly enjoyable for anyone in the ground, I’m really really pleased with the performance for around about an hour where we’ve won the game against a really tough team to play against”.

The result has moved Bradford (Park Avenue) up to 18^th in the Vanarama National League North, level on points with both Buxton and Kettering Town following their goalless draw on Saturday. More importantly, the Green Army are now four points ahead of the relegation zone and will be hoping results go their way in the midweek as a handful of sides also fighting for survival are playing catch up with games in hand.

Next up is a double-header for the Avenue as they face a trip to high-flying Brackley Town on Saturday, before returning home to host relegation-threatened Blyth Spartans on Monday in another crucial home fixture under the lights at the Horsfall Community Stadium.

FULL TIME: BRADFORD (PARK AVENUE) 3-1 LEAMINGTON

(25’) GOAL – Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-0 Leamington – Will Longbottom

(45+2’) GOAL – Bradford (Park Avenue) 2-0 Leamington – Brad Dockerty

(56’) RED CARD – Leamington – Jack Edwards

(70’) RED CARD – Leamington – Louis Hall

(71’) GOAL – Bradford (Park Avenue) 3-0 Leamington – Harrison Hopper

(81’) GOAL – Bradford (Park Avenue) 3-1 Leamington – Devon Kelly-Evans

Writer: Stephen Grimshaw (@sgsportswriter on Twitter)

WATCH THE FULL HIGHLIGHTS HERE;

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7 Feb 2023

MATCH REPORT – Gloucester City 5 – 1 Bradford (Park Avenue)

by BPAFC Officials | posted in: First Team Match Reports, First Team News, News | 0

Avenue hit for five at Gloucester.

Bradford (Park Avenue) fell to a heavy 5-1 defeat at Gloucester City on Saturday afternoon, a second loss in successive games as their winless run extends to eight matches.

The game got off to the worst possible start for the Avenue who found themselves a goal behind inside two minutes as Dominic McHale calmly slotted a right-footed effort beyond George Sykes-Kenworthy into the bottom corner.

The Green Army responded well and quickly went in search of an equaliser, but less than ten minutes later Gloucester had doubled their lead, McHale this time turning provider as his well-weighted cross from a free kick was nodded in by Kennedy Digie.

Once again, Bradford (Park Avenue) were not to be deterred, and on the quarter of an hour mark Brad Dockerty latched on to a perfectly timed cross from Lucas Odunston to half the deficit. The score remained the same until half time in what was a back-and-forth 45 minutes that saw both sides trying to seize the initiative and add to their respective tallies.

Despite a promising end to the half, Bradford (Park Avenue) started the second half in similar frustrating fashion to the first as they gave away a penalty within two minutes of the restart. Temitope Obadeyi powered his spot-kick beyond Sykes-Kenworthy to double Gloucester’s lead once again.

As the second half wore on the Avenue continued to try to find a way back into the game, stringing together some promising passing moves. However, clear-cut chances were at a minimum and with little over twenty minutes remaining, the hosts once again caught the visitors cold as McHale doubled his assist tally for the afternoon, calmly squaring for Kieran Phillips to tap in with the goal at his mercy. McHale compounded Avenue’s misery on 75 minutes, rounding off a fine performance by adding his second, and Gloucester’s fifth, of the afternoon.

After the game, Avenue boss Mark Bower acknowledged the damage inflicted by defensive mistakes throughout the game with “four or five errors leading up to the first goal”. Bower also shared his concern over his side’s growing injury list, adding “we lost Reece Staunton injured which is a blow, with the likes of Blythy (Blyth), OJ (Johnson), Jordan Preston out, Spenner (Spencer) and Lundy (Lund) not a hundred per cent fit yet, we are thin”.

Nonetheless, Bower did look to the positives, taking particular satisfaction with the response to going two goals behind. “We got to grips with our shape against theirs; we moved the ball quite well and scored a good goal”. The Avenue manager also was keen to point out the battling nature of his side since the early months of the season, adding, “that’s the first game we’ve lost by more than one goal since early October. The lads compete well and have been in games. It hasn’t felt like this on the side-lines for quite a while”.

The result has seen Bradford (Park Avenue) slip to 19^th in the Vanarama National League North, but the Green Army remain three points clear of the relegation zone, albeit having played more games than the sides below. This only adds to the importance of Avenue’s next fixture as they prepare to welcome Leamington to the Horsfall Community Stadium this Saturday. The visitors sit one point and one place below Bradford with three games in hand, meaning a win is vital for the Green Army’s efforts to re-climb the table and stave off relegation as the season continues.

FULL TIME: GLOUCESTER CITY 5-1 BRADFORD (PARK AVENUE)

(2’) GOAL – Gloucester City 1-0 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Dominic McHale

(13’) GOAL – Gloucester City 2-0 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Kennedy Digie

(15’) GOAL – Gloucester City 2-1 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Brad Dockerty

(49’ pen) GOAL – Gloucester City 3-1 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Temitope Obadeyi

(69’) GOAL – Gloucester City 4-1 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Kieran Phillips

(75’) GOAL – Gloucester City 5-1 Bradford (Park Avenue) – Dominic McHale

Writer: Stephen Grimshaw (@sgsportswriter on Twitter)

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