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