22 Oct 2024

Programme Preview: Avenue vs Emley AFC – Tuesday, 22nd October 2024

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Tonight’s matchday programme is packed with great content as Bradford (Park Avenue) hosts Emley AFC at the Horsfall Community Stadium. The front cover features First Team player Connor Shanks, who has been a standout performer this season. For just £3, fans can grab a copy in the Clubhouse or the Horton Park Suite and dive into a variety of exclusive features.

Director’s Notes

Our Directors share their thoughts in tonight’s programme, starting with Paul Armitage, who takes a detailed look at the rebuilding efforts surrounding the First Team. He shares updates on new signings, the latest additions to the backroom staff, including our new kitman, and some exciting news regarding our new sponsorship partnerships. Paul also touches on the many developments happening around Horsfall, from the upgraded facilities to upcoming events.

Thomas McStravick provides insights into the Horsfall Community Trust and its plans for the future. He discusses ongoing projects and outlines the long-term vision to strengthen our ties with the local community.

Secretary’s Update

Sheridann Dickerson sheds light on the hard work being done behind the scenes. His notes emphasize the dedication of everyone involved at the club, highlighting the collective efforts of staff, players, and volunteers. He also discusses the latest on the Hall of Fame initiative and the club’s ambitious goals for the 2024/25 season.

Opposition Insider

This section provides an in-depth look at today’s visitors, Emley AFC. We cover the club’s history, key moments, and achievements. There’s also a detailed analysis of their current playing squad and management, in Today’s Opposition, offering insights into what we can expect from our opponents tonight.

Tim Clapham and John Rhodes: Club History

Tim Clapham takes readers back in time to explore the history between Bradford (Park Avenue) and Emley AFC, recounting some memorable encounters and stories from past meetings, and players who have played at both clubs. John Rhodes also shares his “Week in History” segment, featuring interesting anecdotes and milestones that resonate with Avenue’s long and storied heritage.

Academy Focus

This edition features photos from recent Academy matches, showcasing the young talent coming through the ranks. Our Academy section reflects the ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of players and fostering a pathway from youth football to the First Team.

Media Update

A look at Avenue’s evolving online presence over the past three years, covering social media growth, website updates, and the new content initiatives that have helped build stronger connections with our supporters. We detail how the club’s digital strategy has evolved and what’s in store for the future.

Get Your Copy!

With a variety of engaging features and insights, tonight’s programme is a must-read for all Green Army supporters. Pick up your copy for just £3 in the Clubhouse or Horton Park Suite. Let’s get behind the team and cheer them on to victory!

22 Oct 2024

Player Departures: Josh Askew and Ben Whelan

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Bradford (Park Avenue) can confirm that Josh Askew has left the Club this week to join Ossett United. We would like to thank Josh for his commitment and efforts over the last few months and wish him all the best as he continues his football journey.

Additionally, we can confirm that Ben Whelan has gone out on a 3-month loan deal to Sheffield FC. We wish Ben the best of luck and look forward to seeing his development during this loan spell.

Thank you, Josh and Ben, for your contributions to the Club! 💚⚽

22 Oct 2024

Match Preview: Bradford (Park Avenue) vs. Emley AFC

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Tonight, Bradford (Park Avenue) face a significant challenge as they host league leaders Emley AFC at the Horsfall Community Stadium. With the match kicking off at 7:45 pm, it’s set to be a high-stakes clash as Avenue aim to continue their strong form and close the gap at the top of the table.

Form Guide:

  • Bradford (Park Avenue) come into the game unbeaten in their last six league matches, with an impressive five wins and one draw. Recent victories include a solid 3-1 win at Consett, 2-1 vs Sheffield FC, and a 3-0 away win against Stocksbridge Park Steels, showcasing the team’s resilience and growing momentum. Sitting fifth in the table with 23 points, Avenue are just one point away from second place, making tomorrow’s match crucial in their push for the top spots.
  • Emley AFC, on the other hand, lead the league with 29 points and have been formidable this season, losing just once in the league. Their recent form is hampered slightly, with their only loss, 2-1 to North Ferriby. Emley have shown they can bounce back quickly though, and since that defeat they have won against Sherwood Colliery, Ossett United, and Carlton Town.

Key Factors:

  • Defensive Steel vs. Attacking Firepower: Avenue’s recent success has been built on solid defending and clinical finishing. The addition of experienced players like Ben Blythe, Josh Ashman, and Mark Beevers has bolstered the backline, while Paddy Sykes, fresh off scoring twice against Consett, is in fine form up front. However, they will need to be at their best to keep out an Emley side that has scored 27 goals – the most in the division.
  • Battle for the Summit: With Emley having scored the most goals and conceded the least in the league, they represent the ultimate test for Avenue’s improving squad. But with home advantage and a buzzing atmosphere at Horsfall, Bradford (Park Avenue) will fancy their chances of upsetting the league leaders and cutting the gap at the top to just three points.

What’s at Stake:

A win for Avenue would not only boost their play-off credentials but also thrust them firmly into the title race. Meanwhile, Emley will look to solidify their place at the top and extend their lead over the chasing pack.

🕢 Kick-off at 7:45 pm – let’s fill the stands and create a powerful atmosphere! 🔥

🎟️ Admission Prices:

  • £8 for EFL, EPL, Bulls, Huddersfield Town, Bradford City, and Halifax season ticket holders
  • £13 Adults, £10 Concessions
  • £5 for Students, Armed Forces & Blue Light Cardholders
  • £3 Youths (12-17), £1 Juniors (U12s)

🍺 Happy Hour on all draft and hand-pulled pints from 6-7 pm with 50p off your first pint. Come early, grab a drink, and get ready for a big night of football! 🍻

Get down to Horsfall, back the lads, and let’s make tomorrow night one to remember! 🟢⚪ #GreenArmy #BPAFC #Matchday #NorthernPremierLeague #UpTheAvenue

21 Oct 2024

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

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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!

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

16 Oct 2024

Club Statement

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Bradford (Park Avenue) would like to update our supporters and the wider football community regarding the recent announcement from our neighbours Farsley Celtic about playing at our home, the Horsfall Community Stadium, on Friday 18th October against Spennymoor Town.

We are very keen to help other local clubs and offer the use of our fantastic facilities. However, our priority is to look after the best interests of Bradford (Park Avenue) to protect the future trajectory of the football club.

We have an agreement, in principle, with Farsley Celtic. This agreement is based on various T&C’s being met. Unfortunately, the public announcement from Farsley Celtic has been made before these T&C’s have been met.

Therefore, as we currently stand the game will not go ahead at the Horsfall Community Stadium. However, we are very hopeful that these T&C’s can be fulfilled by Farsley Celtic very quickly and we will be able to help our neighbours and host their upcoming fixture.

We will update supporters, of all clubs concerned, in due course.

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.

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!

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.