Exciting News! Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC are hosting their first ever Christmas Cup! (24/25 season)

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👧🏼👦🏻 Age Groups u7, u8, u9 & u10
📅 Date Friday 27th December 2024 (u7&u8) Saturday 28th December 2024 (u9&u10) 10:00-15:00
📍 Location Horsfall Stadium, Bradford. BD6 2NG.
💷 Entry Fee £35 per team, £2pp spectators.

We invite all football teams from the 4 age groups, to join us for an exciting day of football and fun. This is a great opportunity for all young players to showcase their skills and teamwork, within our community stadium. 💪⚽

U7- 5v5 (max 3 subs)
U8- 5v5 (max 3 subs)
U9- 7v7 (max 3 subs)
U10- 7v7 (max 3 subs)

Our teams and guests can expect:

  • Competitive football matches 🤍💚
  • A family friendly atmosphere 💚
  • Trophies for winning teams and medals for winners and Runners Up🏆🥇
  • Refreshments and snacks available 🍔🥤

Parents, friends and family are all welcome to come and support the children on the day.

We are limiting each age group to 12 teams so places will be allocated on a 1st come 1st serve basis. We will only accept one entry per club per age group initially.

For more details, please contact Holleigh on 07779244070 or email tournaments@bpafc.com

Please use the below link to register your place on our Christmas Cup and we will be in touch with payment information and further details.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1VPFHFeSEyQDWw_v0hbbzsVD65mF3i6lVBeyPugjUpEA/viewform

MATCHDAY PREVIEW: Ashington AFC vs Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Northern Premier League East Division
Kick Off: 7:45 PM
Venue: Woodhorn Lane, Ashington, NE63 9FW

Bradford (Park Avenue) head to Ashington this evening for an exciting Northern Premier League East Division clash. Both sides will be eager to secure three points and move up the league table.

Ashington have experienced a mixed start to their season, currently sitting in 17th place with 4 points from 4 matches. Their league campaign began with a 1-1 draw away at Ossett United, followed by a 1-2 home defeat to Bishop Auckland. After a 2-0 loss away at Dunston, Ashington bounced back with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Garforth Town in their most recent league match.

In the FA Cup, Ashington won a 2-1 replay away against Bishop Auckland but were eliminated in the next round after a 2-1 loss at Crook Town on 31st August. Their FA Trophy campaign ended on 24th August with a 4-1 defeat to Congleton Town.

Bradford (Park Avenue) are full of confidence following a solid 3-1 FA Trophy victory against Witton Albion last weekend. With new manager Craig Elliott in charge, the team is beginning to find its form, with goals from Dan Francis, Paddy Sykes, and Kelan Swales securing the win. Avenue will be aiming to keep that momentum going and climb the table tonight.

Ticket Information:

🎟️ Ticket Prices:

  • £9.00 Adults
  • £5.00 Concessions (65+ and Students)
  • £3.00 Under 16s

Purchase tickets here – https://ashingtonafc.ktckts.com/event/asn2425home03/ashington-afc-vs-bradford-park-avenue

Let’s back the lads as they aim to bring home another win on the road!

Kickoff is at 7:45 PM at Woodhorn Lane, Ashington, NE63 9FW – Come on Avenue!
#GreenArmy #BPAFC #UpTheAvenue #NorthernPremier #AwayDay

Match Report: Witton Albion 1 – 3 Bradford (Park Avenue) (FA Trophy)

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Bradford (Park Avenue) delivered an impressive 3-1 victory over Witton Albion in the FA Trophy on Saturday, 7th September, marking a successful start to Craig Elliott’s managerial tenure. The match at Bracken Moor showcased Avenue’s solid tactical discipline and attacking intent.

Avenue took control early in the first half, opening the scoring in the 18th minute. Harry Colville’s cross created chaos in the Witton defense, with Connor Shanks’ shot blocked, only for the ball to loop into the path of Dan Francis, who calmly finished from close range to give Avenue a 1-0 lead.

Throughout the half, Avenue created several more chances. In the 34th minute, Paddy Sykes narrowly missed the target, shooting wide. Connor Shanks also had the ball in the net in the 41st minute, but his effort was ruled offside. Despite bookings for Alex Francis and Connor Dimaio before half-time, Avenue managed to hold their 1-0 lead going into the break.

Witton Albion responded quickly after the second half began, equalizing in the 47th minute when Harry McGee headed home from a cross, bringing the match level at 1-1.

Avenue, however, showed resilience and regained the lead in the 57th minute. Harry Colville’s dangerous corner was met by Paddy Sykes, who rose above the defense to head the ball past Witton goalkeeper Danny Roberts, putting Avenue back in front.

The decisive third goal came in the 72nd minute. A well-executed pass from Luke Hogg found Oli Norman down the left wing. Norman’s low cross into the box was perfectly placed for Kelan Swales, who turned sharply and slotted the ball home, securing the 3-1 victory for Avenue.

Following the match, manager Craig Elliott expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance:
“I think we could have won by more. We missed some good chances in the first half with a few one-on-ones. They had spells, but what really pleased me was how the lads reacted after they equalized, and we fully deserved the win. It’s been a positive start, and I’m proud of how the team has responded.”

Avenue now turns their focus to an away match against Ashington on Tuesday, 10th September, with a 7:45 pm kickoff, hoping to build on this promising start. Travelling with us? Address is Ashington Community Football Club, Woodhorn Ln, Ashington NE63 9FW.

MATCH PREVIEW: Witton Albion vs. Bradford (Park Avenue) – FA Trophy

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This Saturday 7th September, Bradford (Park Avenue) travels to Wincham Park, Northwich (CW9 6DA) to face Witton Albion in a crucial FA Trophy tie. This match will mark the beginning of Craig Elliott’s tenure as Bradford (Park Avenue)’s new manager, and he will be eager to start off with a victory.

Witton Albion’s last outing on 31st August saw them secure a 3-2 win over City of Liverpool in the FA Cup, with goals from Joe Duckworth, Tom Daly, and James Fisher.

They have further bolstered their squad over the last few weeks with the additions of midfielders Owen German, on loan from Altrincham, and Owen Cushion, signed from Prescot Cables.

Duckworth and Elliot Rokka, who have already scored twelve goals between them this season, will be key threats that Bradford’s defence must keep in check.

Bradford (Park Avenue) comes into this match on the back of a morale-boosting 3-1 win over Grimsby Borough, which saw a commanding performance under the interim management of James Hanson and Karl Leneghan.

Avenue started the match brightly, with an early goal from Connor Shanks in the 5th minute setting the tone.

Although Grimsby equalized, a penalty from Oli Norman restored Avenue’s lead before half-time, and Oli sealed the victory with his second goal in the 60th minute.

With the team riding high from their recent success, they’ll be looking to carry that momentum into the FA Trophy under the new leadership of Craig Elliott.

Avenue will be aiming to build on their recent form and make a strong start in their trophy campaign.

Kick-off is at 3:00 PM on Saturday 7th September — don’t miss what’s sure to be an exciting match!

Travel Information: For fans traveling to the game, Wincham Park is located at Wincham, Northwich CW9 6DA. Please keep an eye out for updates on admission prices as they are still TBC. Safe travels, and let’s get behind the team!

MATCH REPORT: Grimsby Borough 1-3 Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Bradford (Park Avenue) produced a solid and disciplined performance to secure a 3-1 victory over Grimsby Borough on Saturday, under the guidance of interim managers James Hanson and Karl Leneghan.

The game started brightly for Avenue, with Dan Francis nearly opening the scoring in the 3rd minute, heading just wide from a Kelan Swales cross.

However, it didn’t take long for Avenue to break the deadlock. In the 5th minute, Connor Shanks found the back of the net, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Grimsby Borough.

Despite Avenue’s early lead, the game settled into a more even contest, with both teams struggling to find clear-cut opportunities. Grimsby gradually grew into the match and were rewarded in the 29th minute when Jack Richardson leveled the score, slotting the ball past Avenue’s goalkeeper after a sustained period of pressure from the home side.

Avenue quickly responded to the setback. Just six minutes later, Oli Norman was brought down in the box, and the referee pointed to the spot.

Norman stepped up and confidently converted the penalty, restoring Avenue’s lead in the 36th minute. The visitors nearly extended their advantage just before halftime, but Norman’s shot was saved by the Grimsby keeper.

The second half began with both sides making substitutions, but it was Bradford (Park Avenue) who took control. In the 60th minute, Norman struck again to double Avenue’s lead. After Josh Askew’s shot was parried by the Grimsby goalkeeper, Norman reacted quickest to slot home the rebound, making it 3-1.

Grimsby Borough struggled to break down Avenue’s defence as the match wore on, with the visitors managing the game effectively. However, Avenue’s victory was somewhat marred by a late incident in the 82nd minute, when Josh Askew received a second yellow card and was sent off. Despite being reduced to ten men, Avenue remained resolute and closed out the game without conceding further.

This victory marks a positive step forward for Bradford (Park Avenue) as they build momentum under the interim stewardship of James Hanson and Karl Leneghan. The team showed resilience and clinical finishing to secure the win, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming fixtures.

Looking ahead, newly appointed manager Craig Elliott will take charge for the first time this weekend in a crucial away trip to Witton Albion in the FA Trophy. The team will be eager to continue this form under Elliott’s leadership as they push forward in the competition.

Attendance: 169

Full-Time: Grimsby Borough 1-3 Bradford (Park Avenue)

CRAIG ELLIOTT IS THE NEW AVENUE MANAGER!

Bradford (Park Avenue) would like to announce the appointment of Craig Elliott as the new First Team Manager.

Signing a one-year contract, Elliott has a wealth of managerial experience in non-league and has an outstanding record of promotions and winning trophies.

After hanging up his playing boots, Elliott took his first job at Pontefract Collieries before moving to Glasshoughton Welfare, where he secured promotion from the Northern Counties East League – Division One in 2012.

His next job took him two divisions higher to Ingfield where he took charge of Ossett Town. He improved the playing squad and in 2014, he made the surprising move to Shaw Lane Aquaforce. But it proved to be the right decision as he enjoyed three promotions, winning the Sheffield and Hallamshire Senior Cup, as well as having lucrative cup runs in the Isuzu FA Trophy, Isuzu FA Vase and Emirates FA Cup.

After his successful spell in Barnsley, Elliott was rewarded with the manager’s job at Boston United. The 46-year old was in the dugout for 161 games, winning 78 matches, including a memorable run to the Emirates FA Cup Second Round in 2019 and reaching the National League North Promotion Final in 2020.

Following his departure, Elliott had a short spell at Matlock Town before moving to Buxton FC. During his time at the Bucks, Elliott steered the club away from the relegation zone and missed out on the playoffs by one point. Whilst at Silverlands, Elliott guided his team to two Derbyshire Cup victories.

Making a return to the dugout, Elliott is looking forward to the new challenge at Bradford:

“I’m delighted to be joining BPA. Everything has happened quickly but after talks with director of football, the board and the owner I felt this was the right move for me and the club.

As a West Yorkshire based manager, I am fully aware of the struggles the club has had on the pitch in their recent history. But I am determined to change the outlook of the club both on and off the pitch as quickly as possible. I have experience of similar situations throughout my career and have been fortunate to consistently be fighting for promotions and I can assure the supporters I will be giving everything I can to get us challenging for promotion and build a team you can be proud of.”


On appointing Elliott, Tom McStravick is delighted to welcome a proven winner to the Horsfall Community Stadium:

“We have had lots of interest in the role. The calibre of candidates really does signify the size and potential of this club. Once we spoke to Craig, we knew he was the right man at the right time to take the club forward. He is driven and will do whatever it takes to win. The board are delighted with this appointment. Let’s get behind him and move this club forward.”

The new First Team Manager will watch his team from the stands on Saturday against Grimsby Borough. James Hanson will lead the side, supported by Karl Lenaghan. Elliott’s first game in charge will be the Isuzu FA Trophy tie at Witton Albion on Saturday 7 September.

We’ll share our first interview with the new manager shortly on our website and social media channels.

Please give a warm welcome to Craig as we wish him all the best during this time with us.

Up the Avenue!

MATCH PREVIEW: Grimsby Borough vs. Bradford (Park Avenue)

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Bradford (Park Avenue) is set to take on Grimsby Borough today in what promises to be a pivotal Northern Premier League East fixture. The match kicks off at 3:00 PM at the Bradley Football Development Centre, Grimsby.

Grimsby Borough enters the game sitting 7th in the league with 7 points from their opening fixtures. They’ve shown both strength and inconsistency, highlighted by a 5-0 victory over Ossett United and a 5-0 defeat to Anstey Nomads. Their most recent result was a goalless draw against Cleethorpes Town.

Bradford (Park Avenue), currently 14th with 4 points, is looking to bounce back after a difficult period marked by the recent departure of manager Danny Whitaker. Interim manager James Hanson, supported by goalkeeper coach Karl Leneghan, will lead the team today as they aim to secure a much-needed victory and climb the league table.

This match is crucial for both teams, with Grimsby Borough looking to solidify their top-half position and Bradford (Park Avenue) eager to regain momentum and stability. It promises to be a tightly contested battle, with both sides striving for all three points.

Be sure to follow the action and support the team as they aim to turn things around and make a statement on the road.

Watch James Hanson in his first interview since taking on the interim role.

YouTube player

MATCHDAY PREVIEW: Bradford (Park Avenue) vs. Liversedge

Today, Bradford (Park Avenue) welcomes Liversedge to Horsfall Stadium for a Bank Holiday showdown in the Northern Premier League East. Both teams are eager to claim all three points, with Avenue looking to bounce back after a mixed start to the season. Liversedge, coming off a couple of draws and a loss, will be hungry for a win as well. With the home crowd behind them, Avenue will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and deliver a strong performance.

Match Details:

  • Date: Monday, 26th August 2024
  • Kick-off: 3:00 PM
  • Venue: Horsfall Stadium, BD6 2NG
  • Admission: £13 Adults | £10 Concessions | £5 Students/Blue Light/Armed Forces | £3 Youth | £1 U12s

Let’s get behind the lads and make Horsfall Stadium the fortress it needs to be!

MATCH PREVIEW: Bradford (Park Avenue) vs. Liversedge

Bradford (Park Avenue) will host Liversedge at Horsfall Stadium on Bank Holiday Monday, looking to secure a much-needed victory in the Northern Premier League East. Danny Whitaker’s squad has had mixed results in their opening three league fixtures, and they’ll be eager to bounce back with a strong performance.

Liversedge has also had a challenging start to their campaign, opening with a 3-0 defeat to Garforth Town, followed by draws against Dunston and Bridlington Town. They will face Cleethorpes Town this Saturday before making the trip to Horsfall.

With both teams seeking momentum, this Bank Holiday clash promises to be a competitive encounter. Bradford will aim to capitalize on home advantage and take all three points as they look to climb the league table.

Match Details:

  • Date: Monday, 26th August 2024
  • Kick-off: 3:00 PM
  • Venue: Horsfall Stadium, BD6 2NG
  • Admission: £13 Adults | £10 Concessions | £5 Students/Blue Light/Armed Forces | £3 Youth | £1 U12s

Come down to Horsfall Stadium and support the lads as they look to return to winning ways!

MATCH REPORT: Bradford (Park Avenue) 1-1 Brighouse Town

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Bradford (Park Avenue) and Brighouse Town shared the points in a 1-1 draw at Horsfall Stadium in a match where neither side managed to fully impose themselves.

The game started with early opportunities for Avenue, with Colville’s scuffed shot and Sykes’ effort going over the bar. Brighouse had their chances too, but it wasn’t until late in the first half that they managed to take the lead, exposing some vulnerabilities in Avenue’s defence.

The second half saw Bradford (Park Avenue) push for an equalizer, and they were handed a chance to level the score with a penalty in the 55th minute.

However, Shanks was unable to convert, as his spot-kick was saved by the Brighouse keeper.

Despite this setback, Dan Francis managed to bring Avenue level just minutes later with a goal that offered some relief to the home side.

As the match wore on, both teams struggled to find the decisive goal. Bradford made a couple of substitutions in an attempt to break the deadlock, but Brighouse’s defense held firm, frustrating the home side.

Avenue’s inability to capitalize on their chances, combined with Brighouse’s resilient defending, meant that the game ended in a draw, a result that neither side will be entirely satisfied with.

The match reflected a struggle for consistency, with Avenue showing moments of promise but ultimately failing to secure the three points.

This result leaves Bradford (Park Avenue) with plenty to think about as they prepare for their next fixture.

Attendance: 385

Next Fixture:

Bradford (Park Avenue) returns to action on Bank Holiday Monday, hosting Liversedge at Horsfall Stadium. Kick-off at 3:00 PM.

Admission: £13 Adults | £10 Concessions | £5 Students/Blue Light/Armed Forces | £3 Youth | £1 U12s