20 Oct 2024

Tuesday Matchday Alert!

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This Tuesday night 22nd October, Bradford (Park Avenue) face off against league leaders Emley AFC at the Horsfall Community Stadium! 🏟️ Kick-off at 7:45 pm. It’s a big test for the lads, and we need the Green Army to bring the noise! 🔊💚

🎟️ Special Offer: Entry is just £8 for all EFL, EPL & Bulls season ticket holders! 🎫

🍺 Happy Hour on all draft and hand-pulled pints from 6-7 pm with 50p off your pint! Perfect way to warm up for the action on the pitch! ⚽️🔥

Get behind the team and let’s make Tuesday night one to remember! 🟢⚪ #GreenArmy #BPAFC #TuesdayNightFootball #NorthernPremierLeague #UpTheAvenue

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17 Oct 2024

Match Preview: Consett AFC vs Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Date: Saturday, 19th October 2024
Kick-Off: 3:00 PM
Venue: Belle View Stadium, Delves Lane, Consett, DH8 7BF
Coach Travel: £15, contact Secretary@bpafc.com to book!

Bradford (Park Avenue) travel to Belle View Stadium on Saturday to face Consett AFC in the Northern Premier League East Division. Avenue are looking to extend their solid form, while Consett will be eager to bounce back from recent setbacks and climb up the table.

Current Form:

Bradford (Park Avenue) currently sit 6th in the league table with 20 points from 11 games, while Consett are 18th with 10 points from 10 matches.

Bradford’s recent form puts them 3rd in the form table, and includes a 1-1 draw against Carlton Town on Tuesday, where Dan Francis scored early, but Avenue were held to a draw. Prior to that, Avenue secured a strong 2-1 win against Sheffield and a dominant 3-0 victory over Stocksbridge Park Steels, where Myles La Bastide and Paddy Sykes both got on the scoresheet.

Bradford Recent Results:

  • H vs Carlton Town (1-1): Dan Francis
  • H vs Sheffield (2-1): Paddy Sykes, Ben Blythe
  • A vs Stocksbridge Park Steels (3-0): Myles La Bastide (2), Paddy Sykes

Bradford have been defensively solid while creating plenty of attacking chances, with key players such as Dan Francis, Paddy Sykes, and Connor Shanks contributing goals. The defence, led by Mark Beevers and Ben Blythe, has been particularly strong, with Blythe showing his defensive prowess alongside Beevers in recent matches.

On the other hand, Consett come into this match after a tough 3-0 loss to Carlton Town, and they will be desperate to turn their form around. Despite the setback, Consett’s recent 3-2 win against Ashington AFC showcased their potential to pull off surprises at home.

Key Players to Watch:

Bradford (Park Avenue):

  • Dan Francis remains a key attacking outlet, having scored in Tuesday’s draw against Carlton.
  • Paddy Sykes, known for his physical presence and goal-scoring ability, will look to add to his tally.
  • Connor Shanks will be eager to increase his tally, after being knocked off the top goalscorer spot by Dan Francis on Tuesday.
  • Ben Blythe and Mark Beevers have been standout performers in defence, with Blythe showing his ability to break up opposition attacks and win key headers, making it difficult for opposing forwards.

Consett AFC:

  • Isaac Walker, Consett’s top scorer with 5 goals this season, will be the main threat going forward.
  • Liam Colledge and Marc Costello are also key players who will need to be at their best if Consett hope to take points from this match.

What to Expect:

Given Bradford’s form and the strength of their defence, they will go into the game as favourites. However, Consett’s home advantage and need for points make them a dangerous side, particularly if they can execute on the counter-attack. Expect a competitive, high-intensity match as both teams battle for crucial points.

Next Fixtures:

  • Tuesday, 22nd October: Bradford (Park Avenue) vs Emley AFC at Horsfall Community Stadium.
  • Tuesday, 29th October: Bridlington Town vs Bradford (Park Avenue) (AWAY)
  • Saturday 2nd November: Bradford (Park Avenue) vs Bishop Auckland at Horsfall Community Stadium
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16 Oct 2024

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

by | 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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16 Oct 2024

Harry Colville Departs Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Bradford (Park Avenue) can confirm the departure of midfielder Harry Colville, who left Bradford (Park Avenue) last week to join Garforth Town.

Harry joined the Green Army at the start of the 2023/24 season, making 46 appearances in all competitions and scoring once. In the current 2024/25 campaign, Harry made 10 appearances.

We at Bradford (Park Avenue) would like to extend our sincere thanks to Harry for his hard work and professionalism during his time with the club and wish him the best in his future endeavours.

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15 Oct 2024

Bradford (Park Avenue) Announce the Signings of Jimiel Chikukwa and Ted Lavelle

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Bradford (Park Avenue) is pleased to confirm the signings of forward Jimiel Chikukwa and midfielder Ted Lavelle, who both join the Club on one month deal from FC Halifax Town

Jimiel Chikukwa
Chikukwa, 21, began his career in the Leeds United academy, where he developed from the age of 13. After the expiry of his contract at Leeds, he signed for Watford’s academy in the summer of 2021.

During his time with Watford, Chikukwa gained further experience with a loan spell at Maidstone United in the National League South during the 2021/22 season. Although limited to one league appearance, he was part of the Maidstone squad that went on to win the National League South title.

Chikukwa returned to Watford at the end of the season but was released upon the expiry of his contract in June 2022, later joining FC Halifax Town. Chikukwa will now join Bradford (Park Avenue), where his pace and attacking instincts will be key assets to the team’s forward line.

Ted Lavelle
Lavelle, a talented midfielder, signed his first professional contract with Halifax Town in September 2023.

He previously gained experience with Rochdale and Wigan Athletic before joining Halifax, where he spent time out on loan with Colne FC, Bradford (Park Avenue), and most recently Lancaster City.

While on loan at Colne, Lavelle made 11 appearances and scored six goals across all competitions, showing his attacking prowess from midfield.

Last season, he made 17 appearances for Bradford (Park Avenue), adding two goals to his tally. Lavelle’s return to the club brings an added dimension to the midfield, with his versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.

Bradford (Park Avenue) welcomes both players to the squad and looks forward to their contributions in the upcoming fixtures.

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14 Oct 2024

Bradford (Park Avenue) Welcome Back Connor Dimaio

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Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC is delighted to announce the return of midfielder Connor Dimaio, following a brief stint with Matlock Town. The ex-Sheffield United youngster and former Republic of Ireland youth international re-joins Avenue for the remainder of the 24/25 season, further strengthening the squad for the current campaign.

The 28-year-old midfielder brings a wealth of experience, having featured in League One for Chesterfield and played a key role in Stockport County’s promotion from the National League North during the 2018-19 season. Dimaio is a proven talent at sixth-tier level, establishing himself as a reliable presence for over five years.

Connor initially departed Bradford (Park Avenue) to join Northern Premier League Premier Division side Matlock Town in September, but now returns to bolster Craig Elliotts already strong side.

Welcome back to the Club Connor!

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14 Oct 2024

Matchday Preview: Bradford (Park Avenue) vs Carlton Town

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Date: Tuesday, 15th October 2024
Kick-Off: 7:45 PM
Venue: Horsfall Community Stadium

Bradford (Park Avenue) prepare to welcome Carlton Town in a crucial Northern Premier League East Division clash under the lights at Horsfall Community Stadium. Both teams come into this fixture with a close gap on the recent form table, and with points at a premium, this encounter promises to be a competitive affair.

Current Form Table:

Bradford (Park Avenue) have been on an impressive run, currently sitting at the top of the form table with 15 points from six games. They are in fine form, having won five of their last six matches, including a 3-1 win over Grimsby Borough and a recent 2-1 victory against Sheffield on the 12th of October. Paddy Sykes and Ben Blythe were on the scoresheet for the Avenue in that match, continuing their excellent form in front of goal.

Meanwhile, Carlton Town have also shown moments of quality but have been inconsistent in their last few outings. Carlton are positioned 5th on the form table with 13 points from six games, following a strong 3-0 win over Consett AFC in their most recent match. Alex Howes, Dean Freeman, and Liam Moran were the goal scorers for Carlton in that encounter, underlining their attacking threat.

Head-to-Head:

This will be a tightly contested match, as both teams are vying for a top-four finish. Bradford (Park Avenue) have demonstrated strong home form this season, winning three of their five matches at Horsfall. Carlton, on the other hand, have proven to be a dangerous team on their travels, with three wins and a two losses from five away matches.

Key Players to Watch:

  • Paddy Sykes (Bradford PA): The in-form striker has been a consistent goal threat, netting key goals in recent fixtures, including the opener against Sheffield. His movement and finishing make him one of Bradford’s most dangerous players.
  • Ben Blythe (Bradford PA): A rock at the back, Blythe is also capable of contributing with important goals, as shown in the Sheffield match.
  • Lamin Manneh (Carlton Town): With 7 goals this season, Manneh is Carlton’s leading scorer and will be the main man Bradford’s defense must contain.
  • Dean Freeman (Carlton Town): Scoring in the last match against Consett, Freeman is a versatile player who can provide solidity at the back and is a threat from set-pieces.

Final Thoughts:

With Bradford (Park Avenue) sitting at the top of the form table, Craig Elliott’s men will be aiming to consolidate their position with another home victory. However, Carlton Town pose a significant challenge and will be eager to close the gap at the top of the table. This match has all the makings of a thrilling encounter, with both sides possessing the quality to make a difference on the night.

Expect a high-intensity, end-to-end game as two of the division’s strongest sides go head-to-head at Horsfall Community Stadium.

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14 Oct 2024

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

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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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12 Oct 2024

MATCHDAY PROGRAMME PREVIEW: SPECIAL 40-PAGE EDITION

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Welcome to a truly special 40-page edition of this weeks edition of Avenue, as we bring you exclusive coverage of Bradford (Park Avenue)’s back-to-back fixtures against Sheffield FC and Carlton Town. This edition is packed with essential reading for every Avenue fan, covering everything from club insights to historical flashbacks, making it the ultimate matchday companion.

From the Boardroom: Director’s Notes by Paul Armitage

Director Paul Armitage takes a deep dive into the financial realities of non-league football, highlighting the unique challenges clubs like ours face. Paul also shares his thoughts on today’s and Tuesday’s opposition, Sheffield FC and Carlton Town, emphasizing the significance of these games in continuing our strong run of form.

Sporting Director’s Column: Thomas McStravick

Sporting Director Thomas McStravick reflects on the recent results that have seen Bradford (Park Avenue) return to winning ways. He praises the positive influence of new manager Craig Elliott, who has instilled a renewed sense of confidence within the squad. McStravick discusses Elliott’s impact, the team’s ambitions, and how the club is now focused on building momentum as we move forward in the season.

Scholars Update: Notes from Owen Murphy

Our Lead Academy Coach, Owen Murphy, provides an insightful look at the structure of our academy programme. He outlines the development pathway for our scholars, the coaching philosophy behind the scenes, and the integration of youth players into the senior team. This section is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of the club.

Opposition Insider: A History of Sheffield FC & Carlton Town

Take a journey back in time with our detailed Opposition Insider, covering the histories of both Sheffield FC and Carlton Town. We explore the remarkable story of Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest football club, and its role in shaping the game we love today. Meanwhile, we discover Carlton Town’s origins as Sneinton FC in 1904 and trace their evolution into the club they are today. This section, steeped in footballing heritage, highlights the significance of these historic clubs.

Stats Central: Season Overview

For all you stats enthusiasts, we’ve got the full breakdown of Bradford (Park Avenue)’s 2024/25 season so far. From who’s found the back of the net to yellow and red cards, and every league, cup, and trophy match covered, this section gives you all the numbers that matter as the team pushes ahead this season.

John Rhodes’ Matchday Photography

In this edition, we’re excited to feature the incredible photography of John Rhodes, showcasing stunning images from our recent 3-0 win against Stocksbridge Park Steels. Relive the action with these captivating shots that capture the spirit and determination of the team as they delivered a vital victory.

Tim Clapham’s Historical Flashback

Club historian Tim Clapham delves deep into the archives to bring you the stories behind our first-ever encounters with today’s opponents. Learn more about the matches, players, and pivotal moments that shaped the early history of Bradford (Park Avenue) against Sheffield FC and Carlton Town, offering fascinating insights for every history-loving fan.

With so much packed into this special edition, it’s an absolute must-have for every Avenue supporter. Pick up your copy in the Clubhouse for just £3 and immerse yourself in all things Bradford (Park Avenue) as we look forward to another exciting chapter in our 2024/25 campaign.

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