This Saturday, 5th October, Bradford (Park Avenue) heads to the Bannister Prentice Community Stadium to face Garforth Town in a highly anticipated league clash. Kickoff is at 3:00 pm, and both teams will be eager to secure a crucial victory.

Garforth Town has had a season filled with ups and downs. They started strongly with a 2-0 win over Northallerton in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round and followed it up with a convincing 3-0 victory over Liversedge in their opening league match. A goalless draw at Consett and a dramatic 3-2 replay win against Heaton Stannington in the FA Cup Preliminary Round showcased their ability to grind out results.

In the league, Garforth impressed with a 2-2 draw against Pontefract Collieries and a 3-1 victory over Carlton Town. However, they’ve faced setbacks in the FA Cup and FA Trophy, suffering losses to Bury and Wythenshawe, respectively. Most recently, they were defeated 3-0 by Stocksbridge Park Steels, a result they’ll be keen to bounce back from.

Bradford (Park Avenue) will be looking to build on their recent 2-0 win against Heaton Stannington, with goals from Jack Normanton and Connor Shanks. Head coach Craig Elliott will be pushing his team to carry that momentum into this away fixture as they seek another valuable three points.

With recent signings Mark Beevers and Sonny Whittingham adding strength to the squad, Bradford (Park Avenue) is looking more solid at the back and dynamic going forward. The likes of Jack Normanton and Joe Crosby will be looking to create problems for Garforth’s defence, while Connor Shanks continues his fine form in front of goal.

Match Details

• Fixture: Garforth Town vs Bradford (Park Avenue)
• Date: Saturday, 5th October 2024
• Kickoff: 3:00 pm
• Venue: Bannister Prentice Community Stadium, Cedar Ridge, Garforth (LS25 2PF)

Admission Prices:

• Adults: £9
• Concessions: £6
• U16s: £3
• U5s: FREE
• Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children): £20

This match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams hungry for victory. Make sure to come down and support the lads as Bradford (Park Avenue) looks to continue their winning form on the road!

Bradford (Park Avenue) are delighted to announce the signing of defender Ben Blythe on a deal until the end of the season. Born in Leeds, Blythe brings with him a wealth of experience from across multiple leagues, having honed his skills at both Doncaster Rovers and Swansea City.

Blythe first made a name for himself in the 2019-20 season, when he captained Doncaster Rovers’ under-18s to their first league title since the formation of their academy. His leadership and defensive prowess earned him a professional contract in July 2020.

Ben made his senior debut for Doncaster Rovers in May 2021 in a League One match against Peterborough United. Shortly thereafter, he gained additional first-team experience on loan at Farsley Celtic in the National League North. Following his return, Blythe made his first league start for Doncaster, facing Oxford United.

In March 2022, Ben joined Swansea City’s U23 side after impressing during a trial period. While with Swansea, he enjoyed a productive loan spell at Barry Town in the Cymru Premier, making 22 appearances and contributing with two goals and two assists.

Blythe’s versatility and experience will strengthen Bradford (Park Avenue)’s defensive options, and we are excited to see him bring his skills and leadership qualities to Horsfall Stadium.

Speaking on the signing, Head Coach Craig Elliott said:

“I have known about Ben for a good few years and followed his career after he left Doncaster Rovers to move to Swansea city.

“He is a talented player hungry to do well. As a cultured left footed defender he Will give us good balance. I am delighted our patience paid off and he will be a big asset to us this season.”

Welcome to Bradford (Park Avenue), Ben Blythe!

Craig Elliott’s first home fixture in charge of his new-look squad ended in triumph as Bradford (Park Avenue) secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Heaton Stannington at the Horsfall Community Stadium. The win, highlighted by early goals from Jack Normanton and Connor Shanks, pushed Avenue up to 11th in the table with 10 points from 7 matches.

Avenue wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, finding the net within the opening minute. A miscommunication in Heaton Stannington’s defence saw Normanton, making his league debut, pounce on the loose ball and trickle it past the goalkeeper to give the hosts an early 1-0 lead. This marked Normanton’s second goal in as many games, showcasing his immediate impact on the team.

Just four minutes later, Avenue doubled their advantage. A clever pass down the line from Dan Francis found Paddy Sykes, who whipped a low cross into the box, leaving Connor Shanks with a simple tap-in to make it 2-0 by the 5th minute.

Bradford (Park Avenue) continued to press, with Shanks nearly adding another in the 17th minute from a dangerous free kick, but Heaton Stannington’s defence managed to clear. Normanton remained a constant threat, breaking in behind in the 20th minute and testing the visitors’ goalkeeper, Lewis Brass, who was forced to make a low save at the near post.

A mistake by Brass in the 24th minute almost led to another opportunity for Normanton, but the keeper recovered just in time to deny the forward a second. The visitors then had their first meaningful chance in the 27th minute, but Ed Hall made a comfortable save from a cross into the area.

As the half wore on, Avenue continued to press. In the 33rd minute, Sykes had a header on target from a corner, but Brass was once again equal to the task, forcing another corner that came to nothing. Heaton Stannington had another opportunity in the 40th minute, but their strike was straight into Hall’s gloves.

Second Half Control

The second half saw Myles La Bastide come on for Oli Norman as Avenue aimed to maintain their dominance. In the 63rd minute, Normanton thought he’d added to his tally, only to be flagged offside before his shot came off.

James Hanson replaced Normanton in the 70th minute, with La Bastide coming close to his first goal of the season just three minutes later, but his effort was saved brilliantly by Brass. Sonny Whittingham was also replaced by Joe Crosby as Avenue sought fresh legs to close out the game.

Heaton Stannington showed flashes of attacking intent, with Lamb sending a shot from the edge of the box over the bar in the 75th minute. However, Avenue continued to create chances, with Crosby forcing a brilliant save in the 82nd minute after some slick passing play.

In the 84th minute, Sykes came close to a third for Avenue, heading goalwards only for Brass to parry it away. The rebound fell to Mark Beevers, but his follow-up shot narrowly missed the target.

The final whistle blew with Avenue taking all three points from a comfortable 2-0 win, keeping a clean sheet and putting them in 11th place on the table. Craig Elliott’s new signings, including Josh Ashman, Mark Beevers, Sonny Whittingham, and the goalscoring Jack Normanton, all made a solid impression in their league debuts, offering plenty of promise for the weeks ahead.

Bradford (Park Avenue) will now head back on the road for their next two fixtures, starting with a trip to Garforth Town on Saturday, 5th October. This will be followed by a midweek clash against Stocksbridge Park Steels on Wednesday night.

Bradford (Park Avenue) is excited to announce the signing of Josh Ashman, a 20-year-old right-sided centre-back who joins us from Matlock Town.

Ashman, who captained Sheffield Wednesday’s Under-21s, is looking forward to a fresh challenge after spending the 2023/24 season with Guiseley AFC before moving to Matlock Town in July 2024. His impressive defensive skills and leadership qualities have earned him a reputation as a rising talent.

Josh began his football journey with Sheffield Rangers, later joining the Qualitas private academy and Sheffield Schoolboys, where he was scouted by Sheffield Wednesday. At 14, he entered Wednesday’s Academy, progressing through the ranks to sign a professional contract, and later captained their Under-21 side. Following his release from Wednesday in May 2023, Josh spent a year at Guiseley before his brief spell at Matlock.

Manager Craig Elliott shared his thoughts on the signing:
“Josh is a player who has faced challenges but has shown resilience and determination. His background at Sheffield Wednesday and experience in the Northern Premier League will be invaluable to us. We’re excited to have him onboard.”

We are delighted to welcome Josh to Bradford (Park Avenue) and look forward to his contributions as we strengthen our defensive unit.

Welcome to the Avenue, Josh!

Bradford (Park Avenue) return to the Horsfall Community Stadium this Saturday, 28th September, for a crucial Northern Premier League East Division encounter against Heaton Stannington. It’s our first home game in over a month, and the Green Army is called upon to come out in full force to back the team!

The Opponents: Heaton Stannington

Heaton Stannington come into the match after an impressive 4-2 home win against Newton Aycliffe, with goals from Leighton Hopper, Connor Walker, Joseph Thompson, and Louis Anderson. They currently sit on 8 points from 7 games, with 2 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses. They are also ranked 10th in the form table over the last six matches. Heaton Stannington will be confident, but they’ll face a tough challenge on the road against Avenue, who are aiming to climb the table.

Avenue’s Form and Playoff Push

Bradford (Park Avenue) currently sit 15th in the league with 7 points from 6 matches (2 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses). A victory on Saturday could see Avenue leapfrog Heaton Stannington and close the gap to within three places of the playoff spots—if other results go our way. It’s a vital opportunity to gain ground and turn recent performances around.

Craig Elliott’s side will be looking for standout performances from players like Connor Shanks, James Hanson, and from new signing Sonny Whittingham, and potentially Mark Beevers, dependant on his international clearance.

With Heaton Stannington’s recent good form, Avenue will need to be at their best, and the fans’ support could make all the difference.

Rallying the Green Army

After over a month away from home, it’s time for the Green Army to rally behind the team. The support from the stands is crucial, there’s no reason not to pack out Horsfall and back the boys. Whether you’re a regular or attending your first match, your presence can lift the team and help push them to a vital victory. Let’s create a rocking atmosphere and make Horsfall a fortress once again!

Key Details

• Kick-off Time: 3:00 PM
• Venue: Horsfall Community Stadium
• Admission:
  • Adults: £13
  • Concessions: £10
  • Students/Blue Light/Armed Forces: £5
  • 12-17s: £3
  • Under-12s: £1

This match could be pivotal for Bradford (Park Avenue)’s season, and your support is needed now more than ever. Get down to Horsfall this Saturday and let’s cheer the lads on to three points!

🏆 West Riding County Cup
📅 Tuesday, 24th September
📍 Longfield Avenue, HD7 4BP
⏰ 7:45 PM Kick-off

Bradford (Park Avenue) make the trip to face Golcar United tonight in the West Riding County Cup, with both teams eyeing progression in the competition. Avenue will be looking to bounce back from a tough week, while Golcar have been in strong form and present a formidable challenge.

Golcar United’s Season So Far

Golcar United have enjoyed a fantastic start to their 2024/25 campaign, currently sitting 3rd out of 20 in the league with 18 points from 8 games. They opened their season with an impressive 4-1 win over Penistone Church and followed it up with an FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round win against Padiham, winning 1-0 in a replay after a 1-1 draw.

Their momentum carried on with league victories over Rossington Main (4-2) and Campion (2-1), but they did face heartbreak in the cups—first with a 1-0 FA Cup defeat to Thackley and then a 6-5 penalty shootout loss to New Mills in the FA Vase following a 2-2 draw.

Golcar did get some revenge against Thackley in the league with a 2-1 victory, although recent defeats to Albion Sports (3-2) and Beverley Town (2-1) tested their resilience. However, they returned to form with a 2-1 win over Barton Town and a dominant 4-0 victory against Bottesford Town last time out.

George Doyle is Golcar’s danger man, with 8 goals in all competitions this season, supported by Ryan Hall and Callum Petch, both on 3 goals each. Avenue’s defense will need to be sharp to keep them quiet.

Avenue’s Current Form

For Bradford (Park Avenue), it’s a chance to reset after a difficult run of results. A 2-1 loss to Ashington in the league last Tuesday was followed by an FA Trophy exit on Saturday with a 3-1 defeat to Ossett United. Manager Craig Elliott will be looking for a strong response tonight, using the cup tie as an opportunity to restore confidence and kickstart a positive run of form.

It’s set to be an exciting clash under the lights at Longfield Avenue! Join us for a thrilling cup night as we take on Golcar United. Let’s get behind the lads and push for victory!

#GreenArmy #BPAFC #WRCC #UpTheAvenue

Competition: FA Trophy (2nd Qualifying Round)
Date: Today, Saturday, 21st September 2024
Kick-off: 3:00 pm
Venue: Ingfield Stadium, Prospect Rd, Ossett WF5 9HL
Admission:

• £10 Adults • £7 Concessions • £2.50 Under 16s

Bradford (Park Avenue) travels to face Ossett United at Ingfield Stadium for a pivotal FA Trophy clash today. Both teams are determined to progress, with Ossett United looking to regain form after a challenging start to the season, and Avenue aiming to extend their positive momentum under manager Craig Elliott.

Ossett United’s Recent Form

Ossett United comes into the game off the back of a 3-1 home defeat to North Ferriby. Despite Lewis Richardson’s first-half equaliser, Ossett couldn’t find a way back into the match, ultimately conceding two more goals in the second half. Their defense will need to step up, but their resilience was on display in their previous FA Trophy encounter, where they drew 1-1 with Stalybridge and advanced with a 7-6 victory in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Manager Dave Wild has worked to rejuvenate his squad, bringing in several young and promising talents, who will be eager to make an impact today:

• Connor Brady: The 18-year-old midfielder on loan from Buxton has brought energy and leadership to Ossett’s midfield, having previously captained the Buxton Academy. • Aleks Petrovic: A 21-year-old goalkeeper from Emley, Petrovic will be key to stabilizing Ossett’s defense and preventing Avenue from capitalizing on any defensive lapses. • Leon Gibson-Booth: An 18-year-old left-back on loan from York City, Gibson-Booth adds versatility to Ossett’s backline and will look to contain Avenue’s attacking threats. • Billy Marshall: Another 18-year-old, Marshall, also from York City, brings creativity to the midfield and will be crucial in linking defense to attack.

Ossett will rely heavily on their top scorer and former Avenue player Eddie Church, who has two goals this season. Harry Lynn, Jamie Sharman, and Conner Williamson are also capable of adding to their attacking threats, and they’ll be hungry to make an impact in today’s crucial cup tie.

Bradford (Park Avenue)’s Preparation

Bradford (Park Avenue) enters today’s fixture with growing confidence. Under new manager Craig Elliott, the team has shown improved performances and will look to capitalise on Ossett United’s recent defensive struggles.

With Ossett’s defense vulnerable in recent matches, Avenue will aim to exploit any gaps and secure a place in the next round. The Green Army will be expecting a strong showing away from home.

FA Trophy History

This is the first-ever FA Trophy meeting between Ossett United and Bradford (Park Avenue), adding extra intrigue to today’s match. For Ossett, a win would equal their best-ever FA Trophy run.

With both teams eager to make their mark, it’s set to be a thrilling encounter. Kick-off is at 3:00 pm, and the Green Army will be in full voice, backing their team to secure victory and advance to the next round.

Bradford (Park Avenue) is delighted to announce the signing of 24-year-old defender Elie Ikwa on a deal until the end of the season. This marks the first signing under new manager Craig Elliott, who is looking to strengthen the squad as we push forward in the Northern Premier League East Division.

Elie joins us with a wealth of experience from his time at Peterhead, Racing Club Warwick, Solihull, and Carlton Town. His journey in football has seen him develop into a formidable defender, and we are excited to welcome him to the Horsfall Community Stadium.

Now ready to take on a new challenge with Bradford (Park Avenue), Elie is eager to contribute to the team’s success. His defensive skills and experience will be a valuable addition as we continue our season.

Elie Ikwa will be available for selection on and is expected to quickly become an integral part of our team. We are confident that his addition will bolster our squad, and we look forward to seeing him in action.

Please join us in welcoming Elie Ikwa to the Avenue family and in marking the beginning of a new era under Craig Elliott!