Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC are delighted to announce the loan signing of promising centre-forward Jack Goodman from Doncaster Rovers. The 19-year-old forward joins the Avenue on a deal that will keep him at Horsfall Community Stadium until January.

Goodman arrives with a wealth of experience for his age, having already made plenty of senior appearances for Doncaster Rovers. His impressive record includes six EFL Trophy appearances, two outings in the EFL Cup, 14 in League Two, and a debut appearance in the FA Cup. Jack has also honed his skills with valuable loan stints most recently at Peterborough Sports, and also with Stamford, Gainsborough Trinity, and Matlock Town, showcasing his adaptability and abilities across multiple levels of English football.

Jack Goodman will be available for selection immediately and is expected to play a vital role in the club’s ambitions through our busy winter period. Welcome to the Green Army Jack!

Today, Bradford (Park Avenue) head on the road to take on Newton Aycliffe in what promises to be a thrilling NPL East fixture. With both teams looking to strengthen their positions in the league, this encounter is set to be a challenging one for both sides. Here’s a look at the stats and form leading up to this match.

📊 League Standings:

• Bradford (Park Avenue) currently sit in 6th place with 28 points from 15 matches, holding a +8 goal difference.

• Newton Aycliffe are close behind in 9th place with 22 points from 13 matches and a +7 goal difference, showcasing their solid performance this season.

🔥 Recent Form (Last 6 Matches):

• Newton Aycliffe have been in excellent form, sitting 2nd in the form table with 15 points and a +10 goal difference in their last six matches. This impressive run shows they will be a tough team to break down.

• Bradford (Park Avenue) are also showing consistency, currently 4th in the form guide with 12 points and a +4 goal difference over the same period.

⚽ Top Scorers for Newton Aycliffe:

• Dean Thexton leads the charge with an impressive 13 goals this season, posing a significant threat to Bradford’s defense.

• Jake Petitjean follows with 8 goals, while Liam Jarvie and Cole Kiernan have netted 6 each, showing that Newton Aycliffe have multiple players capable of finding the back of the net.

Match Insights:

With Newton Aycliffe’s solid form and their goal-scoring capabilities, Bradford’s defense will need to be sharp to keep Thexton and his teammates at bay. Bradford (Park Avenue) will also be looking to their attacking players to make a statement, aiming to exploit any gaps in Newton Aycliffe’s defense.

Kick-off: 3:00 PM

Location: Moore Ln, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 5AG

Let’s get behind the lads and push for another positive result! 💚⚽️

Support the lads on the road as we head to Newton Aycliffe tomorrow! Limited seats are available on our minibus, so grab yours before they’re gone! 🎟️

🗓 Saturday, 9th November 📍 Moore Ln, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 5AG ⏰ Kick-off: 3:00 PM

🎟 Admission:

Adults: £9

Concessions: £6

Juniors: £3

🚌 Minibus Travel:

Price: £10 per person

Limited Seats Available – Don’t miss out!

Let’s bring the Green Army to Newton Aycliffe and make it a day to remember! 💚💪

#BPAFC #GreenArmy #OnTheRoad

Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC is thrilled to announce that Connor Shanks and Ben Blythe have today committed their futures to the club by signing new contracts, securing their places at Horsfall Stadium until the end of the 2024/25 season.

This exciting development was made possible thanks to the exceptional support and funding from the Bradford (Park Avenue) Development Fund.

Connor Shanks: Known for his skill and versatility, Shanksy first donned the iconic Green and White last season while on loan from Spennymoor Town. This season, Connor has made 16 appearances, scoring 5 goals.

Originally from Halifax, Shanks developed through Huddersfield Town’s youth system before joining Bradford City’s Academy in 2017.

He made his senior debut in the EFL Trophy for the Bantams in September 2017 before rejoining Huddersfield after the conclusion of his contract.

His time with Spennymoor saw him make 10 appearances, during which he notably scored off the bench against Darlington and secured a dramatic equalizer in the dying moments against Scarborough.

Ben Blythe: A standout in defense, Ben Blythe first rose to prominence in the 2019-20 season, captaining Doncaster Rovers’ under-18s to their inaugural league title since the academy’s inception.

His leadership and solid defensive capabilities earned him a professional contract in July 2020. Blythe made his senior debut for Doncaster Rovers in May 2021 in a League One clash with Peterborough United and gained valuable experience on loan at Farsley Celtic in the National League North.

Upon his return, he earned his first league start against Oxford United. In March 2022, Blythe joined Swansea City’s U23 team after a successful trial, later embarking on a productive loan at Barry Town in the Cymru Premier, where he made 22 appearances, scoring twice and adding two assists. This season for Bradford (Park Avenue), Ben Blythe has made 7 appearances, scoring once.

We look forward to seeing Connor and Ben continue to contribute to the club’s success and wish them both the best as they continue their journey with us at Horsfall. Watch their interview below.

Northern Premier League – East Division
Venue: Horsfall Community Stadium
Attendance: 382
Kick-off: 3:00 pm
Referee: Joseph Goodwin

Bradford (Park Avenue) extended their unbeaten run to ten games (9 league) with a 1-1 draw against a strong Bishop Auckland side at Horsfall Stadium on Saturday.

Although Avenue might feel they left points on the table, it was a hard-fought game in which both teams had their moments.

Avenue started brightly, creating several good opportunities early on, including a powerful effort from Connor Shanks and some sharp movement from Jimiel Chikukwa, who linked well with Sonny Whittingham to keep the visitors on their toes. Their persistent attacking play was eventually rewarded just before half-time.

Shanks expertly found Paddy Sykes in the box, who calmly converted from close range to give Bradford (Park Avenue) a 1-0 lead heading into the break.

The second half began with Bradford continuing to apply pressure. Substitute keeper Adam Lincoln’s misstep gifted Whittingham an opportunity to extend Avenue’s lead, but the forward’s shot was off-target. Moments later, Kareem Hassan-Smith showed his attacking prowess with a surging run down the right, only for Lincoln to make a strong save and keep Bishop Auckland in the game.

Bishop Auckland, however, were not content to sit back. They fought their way into the match and, with just over 15 minutes remaining, found their equalizer. A well-delivered cross from the wing was met by John Howard, who powered a header past Jack Hall.

The goalkeeper, on loan from Sheffield Wednesday, had been solid throughout and praised the Avenue backline for their commitment, with several critical blocks from Mark Beevers and Ben Blythe preventing further threats.

Despite the late equalizer, Avenue continued to push forward. Hassan-Smith came close to reclaiming the lead, but his shot veered just wide. Bishop Auckland nearly stole the game in the final moments, but Cyril Giraud’s shot sailed over, allowing Bradford to hold onto a valuable point.

Reflecting on the result, manager Craig Elliott remained positive, noting the team’s ability to create numerous chances. “We’re still developing and improving,” he commented. “We had good moments and got into some great areas. On another day, we get that second goal and win it.”

The draw leaves Bradford (Park Avenue) in sixth place, outside the play-off positions on goal difference. They now turn their focus to next weekend, with an away trip to Newton Aycliffe on Saturday, 9th November.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 pm at the Newton Aycliffe Sports Club, DL5 5AG.

The Green Army will be hopeful their team can continue building momentum as they look to return to the play-off spots.

Bradford (Park Avenue) Line-Up

1. Jack Hall
2. Josh Ashman
3. Dan Francis
4. Luke Hogg (C)
5. Ben Blythe
6. Mark Beevers
7. Kareem Hassan-Smith
8. Sonny Whittingham
9. Paddy Sykes
10. Connor Shanks
11. Jimiel Chikukwa
12. Ted Lavelle
13. Connor Dimaio
14. Will Calligan
15. Myles La Bastide
16. Ewan Gregson

Bishop Auckland Line-Up

1. Ryan Catterick
2. Dane Burlace
3. James Risbrough
4. Aaron Brown (C)
5. Jordan Fielding
6. Samuel Hodgson
7. John Howard
8. Joe Bartliff
9. Louis Johnson
10. Matty Tymon
11. Cyril Giraud
12. Jonny Haase
13. Adam Lincoln
14. Oscar Eckley-Aldsworth
15. Dale Milburn
16. Benji Tate

Key Events

• 39’ – Goal! Paddy Sykes puts Bradford (Park Avenue) ahead, finishing from close range.
• 45’ – Substitution Bishop Auckland: Adam Lincoln replaces Ryan Catterick.
• 63’ – Substitution Bradford (Park Avenue): Myles La Bastide replaces Jimiel Chikukwa.
• 66’ – Substitution Bradford (Park Avenue): Ted Lavelle replaces Sonny Whittingham.
• 74’ – Goal! John Howard equalizes for Bishop Auckland with a powerful header.
• 84’ – Yellow Card Ted Lavelle (Bradford (Park Avenue))
• 90’ – Substitution Bishop Auckland: Dale Milburn replaces John Howard.

This week’s edition of AVENUE brings fans an exclusive feature on Sheffield Wednesday’s loaned shot-stopper, Jack Hall! Proudly sponsored by Integra Insurance, this programme has plenty in store to bring you closer to the action, history, and heart of Bradford (Park Avenue).

As always, we have our Directors’ insights in View From the Boardroom, where Paul Armitage shares his thoughts on the club’s vision and progress, alongside Thomas McStravick in Sporting Direction, where he sheds light on our strategic initiatives for the season. For club updates, Notes from the Secretary & Operations Manager brings you essential news from Sheridann Dickerson.

AVENUE also has a visual treat this week with recent Scholars’ Photos, capturing moments from the past few weeks of youth action. Plus, our Opposition Insider brings you up to speed with a detailed analysis of today’s competitors, Bishop Auckland. From their current squad to recent performances, Today’s Oppo delves deep into the team we’ll be up against.

Our Club Historian Tim Clapham takes us on a journey back in time, recounting our very first meeting with Bishop Auckland in the 1909-10 season – a story you won’t want to miss!

With plenty more articles and features, this edition of AVENUE is packed with insights, nostalgia, and updates. Pick up your copy today, available for just £3 in the clubhouse or Academy Café, and dive into the ultimate pre-match read!

🆚 Bradford (Park Avenue) vs Bishop Auckland
📍 Horsfall Community Stadium, BD6 2NG
⏰ Kick-Off: 3:00 PM

The stage is set for another action-packed afternoon at Horsfall as Bradford (Park Avenue) take on Bishop Auckland! Let’s get behind the lads and make our home ground a fortress once again.

🎟️ Admission Prices:

• Adults: £13
• Concessions: £10
• Students, Armed Forces & Blue Light Cardholders: £5
• Youths (12-17): £3
• Juniors (U12s): £1

Bring your voices, bring your passion – it’s time to cheer on the Green Army! 💚⚽

Date: Saturday, 2nd November 2024
Kickoff: 3:00 pm
Venue: Horsfall Community Stadium

Bradford (Park Avenue) return to Horsfall this Saturday NPL East clash with Bishop Auckland. Sitting in fourth place, Avenue come into this fixture with momentum, having secured six wins in their last eight games and keeping five clean sheets during that period. They’re riding high after a resilient 1-0 victory away at Bridlington, a result that has helped them keep pace with the league’s frontrunners.

Current Standings and Form

Avenue sit in fourth position on 27 points, level with Stocksbridge Park Steels and just six points behind league leaders Cleethorpes Town. With only three losses in 14 games, and only one of those under new manager Craig Elliott, Avenue are demonstrating consistency, particularly defensively.

The Avenue’s recent form has been superb, with four wins and two draws in their last six games, yielding 10 goals scored and only three conceded, a record that speaks to their solid structure.

Bishop Auckland, currently 13th with 17 points from 15 games, present a mixed record, however they have registered three wins & three draws in their last six matches, putting them in fourth place in the form guide.

Bishop have shown defensive vulnerabilities, conceding 29 goals this season—joint second-highest with Sheffield FC in the league. Despite this, their recent form shows that they are on the up, so Avenue will need to stay sharp.

Key Players to Watch

• Dan Francis – One of Avenue’s leading scorers added another goal to his tally against Bridlington, showcasing his clinical edge in front of goal. His presence on pitch is vital to Avenue’s attacking threat, and he will be looking to exploit Bishop Auckland’s defensive frailties.
• Jack Hall – The On Loan Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper has been in commanding form, playing a crucial role in the recent clean sheet record. His confidence and shot-stopping ability will be instrumental against Bishop Auckland, who have shown they can create chances.
• Sonny Whittingham and Connor Shanks – Both players offer energy and pressing ability in the middle and final third, which could disrupt Bishop Auckland’s build-up play and create scoring opportunities for Avenue.

Opponent Overview

Bishop Auckland’s season has been one of inconsistency, and they arrive at Horsfall aiming to stabilize their form. While their defence has struggled, Bishop Auckland have shown promise in attack and will be motivated to climb the table.

Match Information

We will be holding a minute’s silence for Remembrance Day prior to kickoff. Additionally, a wreath will be laid on the pitch, paying tribute to those who bravely lost their lives in service.

Our First Team will also wear their poppy armbands as a mark of respect. Join us as we come together in gratitude and reflection for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Tickets are available at the gate, priced at £13 for Adults, £10 for Concessions, £5 for Students, Blue light and Armed Forces personnel (ID required), £3 for Youths (ages 12-16), and £1 for Juniors (under 12).

Can Bradford (Park Avenue) extend their unbeaten run and stay in the hunt for the top of the table? Join us at Horsfall this Saturday to cheer on the team and find out!

This Saturday, as Bradford (Park Avenue) take on Bishop Auckland, we will be holding a minute’s silence for Remembrance Day prior to kickoff. Additionally, a wreath will be laid on the pitch, paying tribute to those who bravely lost their lives in service.

Our First Team will also wear their poppy armbands as a mark of respect. Join us as we come together in gratitude and reflection for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

#GreenArmy #LestWeForget #RemembranceDay #BPAFC

Bridlington Town 0-1 Bradford (Park Avenue)
Tuesday, 29th October 2024
Northern Premier League East Division
Attendance: 384 @ Mounting Systems Stadium

Bradford (Park Avenue) continued their impressive form in the Northern Premier League East Division with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Bridlington Town. The win marked Avenue’s sixth in their last eight matches and fifth clean sheet, moving them to fourth place in the table.

Francis Scores the Decisive Goal

Avenue’s winner came midway through the first half, thanks to Dan Francis, who has been in fine scoring form this season, notching his sixth goal in all competitions. The visitors set the tone early, with Jimiel Chikukwa and Paddy Sykes each coming close in the opening five minutes, only to see their chances go wide.

Bridlington, hovering just above the relegation zone, showed resilience, nearly capitalizing on an opportunity when Michael Coulson’s chipped attempt was skilfully parried away by Avenue goalkeeper Jack Hall.

After narrowly missing with a bullet header that was tipped onto the crossbar, Francis finally found the breakthrough in the 23rd minute. Capitalizing on a loose ball following a corner, he tapped it in from close range, giving Avenue a well-earned lead.

Second Half Resilience

Avenue continued pressing after the break, with Connor Shanks narrowly missing the target early in the second half. However, several injuries slowed their momentum, as Captain Luke Hogg exited with a sore hamstring, and Francis, the goal-scorer, followed with a dead leg soon after.

Despite these setbacks, Avenue’s defense held strong under pressure, with Shanks and Sonny Whittingham contributing invaluable pressing up front. Although Hall faced minimal threats in the second half, Bridlington came close to leveling late on, but Kay’s header sailed over the bar with just minutes remaining.

The hosts appealed for a penalty in stoppage time following a tussle in the box, but Avenue saw out the tense final moments to secure the win, taking away what could prove to be three pivotal points.

Squads

Bridlington Town:

1. Sebastian Malkowski, 2. Derry Robson, 3. Charlie Winfield, 4. Simon Heslop (C), 5. Josh Barrett, 6. Dan Hartley, 7. Nathan Dyer, 8. Sam Kay, 9. Harvey Cribb, 10. Michael Coulson, 11. Sam Leverett
   Substitutes: 12. Pete Davidson, 14. Marshall Nock, 15. Benn Lewis, 16. Alex Markham, 17. Ethan Harrison

Bradford (Park Avenue):

1. Jack Hall, 2. Josh Ashman, 3. Dan Francis, 4. Luke Hogg (C), 5. Ben Blythe, 6. Mark Beevers, 7. Kareem Hassan-Smith, 8. Sonny Whittingham, 9. Paddy Sykes, 10. Connor Shanks, 11. Jimiel Chikukwa
   Substitutes: 12. Connor Dimaio, 14. Ted Lavelle, 15. Ewan Gregson, 16. Will Calligan, 17. Jack Normanton

Upcoming Fixture

Bradford (Park Avenue) return to Horsfall Community Stadium this Saturday, 2nd November, to host Bishop Auckland with a 3pm KO. Tickets are priced at £13 for adults, £10 for concessions, £5 for students, blue light, and armed forces (ID required), £3 for youths (12-16), and £1 for juniors (under 12).