Bradford (Park Avenue)’s Scholars opened their pre-season campaign with a confident 3-1 victory over Hartlepool United, in a performance that combined structure, pressing, and clinical finishing.
Goals from Rico Feltham and a brace from David Nsingi saw Avenue’s academy side start their summer preparations on the front foot.
Reflecting on the match, Academy Manager Owen Murphy praised both the result and the effort on show, especially given the mixed group involved due to player unavailability:
“Today’s game against Hartlepool was our first outing this pre-season for the academy. We put out a mixed group of players due to some being away on holiday. Hartlepool were a good footballing side which proved a tough test for the boys, but a test they came through very well.”
Murphy highlighted the players’ off-season commitment, with many already active through involvement in the reserves or at external semi-professional clubs. Despite Hartlepool’s early control of possession, Avenue’s Scholars were solid out of possession and difficult to break down.
The opening goal came via midfielder Rico Feltham, whose finish capitalised on structured play and effective pressing. The second goal followed shortly after the break, as David Nsingi forced a turnover and finished well to double the lead.
Although Hartlepool pulled one back after a defensive lapse, Nsingi restored the two-goal cushion with a standout strike from distance to round off a strong individual display.
“After this the game was done and the lads showed great maturity in managing the game,” Murphy added. “Overall I’m really happy with today’s performance as it’s something we can build on for next week.”
The Scholars continue pre-season preparations next week with momentum and confidence on their side following this positive start.