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).

📅 Saturday, 2nd November 2024

🏟️ Horsfall Community Stadium

📍 BD6 2NG

🕒 3:00 PM Kick-Off

Join us this Saturday as Bradford (Park Avenue) face off against Bishop Auckland! Come and show your support at the Horsfall and be part of the action as the Green Army pushes for another vital three points on home turf.

🎟️ Admission Prices:

Adults: £13

Concessions: £10

Students, Armed Forces & Blue Light Cardholders (ID Required on Turnstile): £5

Youths (12-17): £3

Juniors (U12s): £1

Get ready for a thrilling afternoon of football! 💚

The wait is over! Tonight, Bradford (Park Avenue) travel to Queensgate to face Bridlington Town in a crucial fixture as we push to close the gap on the top five. Here’s everything you need to know:

Match Details:

• Date: Tuesday, 29th October
• Location: Queensgate, Bridlington, YO16 7LN
• Kick-off: 7:45 pm
• Admission: £8 Adults, £5 Concessions, U16s FREE

League Standings Update:

Bradford (Park Avenue) sit 6th in the league with 24 points, just within reach of the top five after a series of strong results. With a win tonight, Avenue could jump as high as third in the league, putting pressure on the teams above.

Bridlington Town, currently 17th, are seeking to rebound from their recent 2-0 home loss to Pontefract Collieries. With inconsistent results in recent matches, they’ll be looking to get back on track, especially in front of their home crowd.

Form Guide (Last 6 Matches):

• Bradford (Park Avenue): W W W D W D
• Bridlington Town: W L W W L L

Avenue’s form has been excellent, with a disciplined defence and effective attack securing key points in recent fixtures.

Bridlington, however, have had a mixed run, with three wins and three losses in their last six matches, making tonight’s game a great opportunity for Avenue to capitalize.

Players to Watch:

• Bradford (Park Avenue): Keep an eye on top performers like Paddy Sykes and Connor Shanks, who have been in goal-scoring form, while Ben Blythe, Mark Beevers and Josh Ashman has been solid in defence. Jack Hall in goal and on loan from Sheffield Wednesday is also one to look out for, keeping 3 clean sheets in his opening 6 matches.
• Bridlington Town: Danny Earl is Bridlington’s top scorer, with four goals this season, and will be their main threat. Michael Coulson and Sam Leverett add experience and attacking support.

Preview:

Craig Elliott’s side are heading into tonight’s match with confidence and a clear objective to secure another three points. Avenue will look to control the game early, applying pressure on Bridlington’s defence, which has shown vulnerabilities in recent games. With a week’s rest and momentum on our side, it’s time to show up, Green Army, and cheer the lads on to victory!

Let’s bring it home! 🟢⚪

Bradford (Park Avenue) are set to resume their campaign next Tuesday, 29th October, with an away trip to face Bridlington Town at Queensgate. Here’s what to expect from the upcoming match:

Match Details:

• Location: Queensgate, Bridlington, YO16 7LN
• Kick-off: 7:45 pm
• Admission Prices: £8 Adults, £5 Concessions, U16s FREE

Current Standings:

Bradford (Park Avenue) are currently positioned 5th in the league, just below the top four and striving to close the gap with Stocksbridge Park Steels and Belper Town. 

With a recent run of consistent form, Avenue have secured valuable points in the last few fixtures, most recently on Tuesday night with a 0-0 draw vs league leaders Emley, and Saturday’s 3-1 win on the road vs Consett. This puts them well within reach of the top spots, and another win could significantly boost their push for promotion.

Meanwhile, Bridlington Town find themselves in 16th place, struggling to maintain consistency. 

They have managed three wins in their last six games, with victories over Sheffield, Garforth and Dunston. However, most recently they fell to a 3-2 defeat to 2nd place Cleethorpes Town.

Key Players to Watch:

• Bradford (Park Avenue): In recent weeks, Paddy Sykes, Connor Shanks and Dan Francis have been in goal-scoring form, while the backline has seen some standout performances led by Ben Blythe, Mark Beevers and Josh Ashman.
• Bridlington Town: The main threat will come from top scorer Danny Earl, who has netted four goals this season. Michael Coulson and Sam Leverett have also contributed to the attack and will be key players in Bridlington’s efforts.

Preview:

Craig Elliott’s side will look to capitalise on Bridlington’s inconsistent form, aiming to dominate possession and create chances early on. Maintaining the defensive solidity seen in recent matches will be crucial, as will taking advantage of set pieces and any lapses in Bridlington’s backline. With the recent momentum and a weekend of rest, Bradford (Park Avenue) should enter the game with plenty of confidence, seeking to secure all three points and continue their ascent up the league table.

Bradford (Park Avenue) continued their impressive run of form under manager Craig Elliott with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against league leaders Emley AFC at Horsfall Community Stadium on Tuesday night. Despite the lack of goals, the Green Army showed resilience and created chances to secure what could have been a crucial victory.

The result extends Avenue’s unbeaten streak to seven games, with five wins and two draws, keeping them in fifth place in the Northern Premier League East Division and holding onto a play-off spot. The spirited display against a strong Emley side, who have been prolific at both ends of the pitch, suggests that Elliott’s influence is yielding dividends.

A crowd of 486, the largest at Horsfall this season, witnessed a match that proved to be a true test of Avenue’s credentials. The visitors started on the front foot, testing the Avenue defense early on. Emley’s Jack Cowgill fired a half-volley over the bar, and Amir Bechil’s header set up Laurence Sorhaindo, but the striker couldn’t find the target.

The home side had the best chance of the first half when Paddy Sykes, in fine form of late, charged down Emley goalkeeper Declan Lambton, winning the ball on the edge of the area. With the goal at his mercy, Sykes was unable to convert, letting the visitors off the hook. The first half slowed after a frantic opening quarter-hour, with Kareem Hassan-Smith picking up a booking for a late challenge on Bechil.

In the second half, Sorhaindo again threatened for Emley, curling an effort narrowly over Jack Hall’s crossbar just after the hour mark. That near miss seemed to spark Avenue into life, as the hosts began to apply pressure on the Emley defense. Lambton made a superb save to deny Sykes, who was closing in on goal, before Connor Shanks squandered a golden opportunity. Shanks found himself well-positioned to score following a cut-back from Jack Normanton, but his effort from six yards sailed over the bar.

Emley had their chances to snatch all three points, with Luke Parkin’s late shot narrowly missing the target and Cowgill producing a vital tackle to prevent a potential Avenue winner in the dying minutes. In stoppage time, Alhassane Keita’s cross found Isaac Baldwin, whose header forced a save from Hall, ensuring both sides shared the spoils.

The result, though goalless, highlighted Avenue’s defensive solidity and growing confidence. With the draw, they move closer to securing a firm hold on the play-off positions.

Next up for Bradford (Park Avenue) is a trip to Bridlington Town on Tuesday, KO 7:45pm, where they will look to extend their unbeaten run and strengthen their push for promotion.

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!