Bradford (Park Avenue) make a swift return to the Horsfall Stadium on Saturday, hosting high-flying Blyth Spartans.
The Spartans haven’t lost since early November, embarking on an impressive unbeaten run that included a Buildbase FA Trophy upset against Boreham Wood last week.
The run has taken them to within a point of the play-offs and Alun Armstrong’s side could break into the top seven with a win in Yorkshire on Saturday.
Bradford, however, have made a slow start to the year and haven’t tasted victory since Boxing Day. Despite consecutive defeats to Guiseley, Stockport County and F.C United of Manchester, Saturday’s hosts remain second and are just six points adrift of league leaders Chorley.
Player Profile:
Adam Novakowski reveals a footballing memory relating to Avenue boss Mark Bower as he takes the interview chair.
Tale’s From The Horton End:
Regular columnist Paul Town looks back on the incredible series of games between Bradford and Manchester United in 1949.
Fans Forum – Friday the 18th of January
Supporters are invited to ask questions or just catch up for a chat. Club owner Gareth Roberts will be in attendance along with CEO, Damian Irvine. The bar will be open on the night and the floor will be open for questions and discussion
Head To Head: Last 5 Games
| Date | Competition | Venue | BPAFC | Blyth Spartans | Result |
| 07/08/2018 | League | Away | 2 | 1 | Win |
| 17/02/2018 | League | Away | 0 | 3 | Loss |
| 04/11/2017 | League | Home | 4 | 1 | Win |
| 17/04/2006 | League | Away | 0 | 2 | Loss |
| 28/09/2005 | League | Home | 2 | 1 | Win |
| Win | Draw | Lose | |
| BPAFC | 3 | 0 | 2 |
| Blyth Spartans | 2 | 0 | 3 |
Knowing The Opposition
Robbie Dale
Dale made his 600th appearance for the Spartans on the opening day of the 2018/19 season, having netted a hat-trick on his debut against Wakefield & Emley in March 2005. The winger was named the Evo-Stik Premier Division Player of the Year in 2015 and turned down a contract with Oxford United as a 21-year-old. The Blyth stalwart was instrumental in both of the club’s recent FA Cup runs, featuring in the 3rd round in 2009 and 2015.
Daniel Maguire
A talented forward, Maguire will head into Saturday’s game with confidence after notching the winner in last week’s win over Boreham Wood. The 26-year-old has been capped by the England ‘C’ side and featured for the Spartans when they reached the 3rd round of the FA Cup in 2015.
Sportsman’s Dinner
February the 22nd sees the Avenue take over the Midland Hotel for our Sportsman’s Dinner.
The event will feature a three-course meal, raffle and auction with a talk from John Lukic (Leeds United & Arsenal) and the comedy stylings of Gary Marshall.
Where/When:
Friday 22nd February
7pm at the Midland Hotel
Bradford BD1 4HU