League Cup - 3rd Rnd at Coral Windows Stadium
Date: 25/09/2012 KO: 19:45
Bradford 3 Burton Alb 2
FT (ht:0-2)
Ref: N Miller Att: 4178
#bcafc CITY draw Wigan away in the 4th round of Capital One Cup
Ties to be played week commencing October 29th
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Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
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http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=355954&action=stats&lang=EN
Bradford: Duke; Darby, McArdle, Davies, Meredith; Atkinson, Ravenhill (Reid 60), Jones, Hines (Wells 60); Thompson, Connell (Hanson 60). Unused
substitutes: McLaughlin, Oliver, McHugh, Doyle.
Burton Albion: Tomlinson; O'Connor, Diamond, Stanton (Corbett 46), McCrory; Dyer, Weir, Bell, Webster; Kee (Taylor 65), Yussuf (Paterson 80).
Unused substitutes: Atkins, Richards, Palmer.
Referee: N Miller (Co Durham).
Scorers
B Kee 18 (Burton)
A Webster 29 (Burton)
N Wells 83 (bradford)
N Wells 90 (bradford)
S Darby 115 (bradford)
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Bradford City: Now bring on the big guns as Wells and Darby shoot down Burton
7:30am Wednesday 26th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Bradford City 3 Burton Albion 2
(aet, 2-2 after 90 minutes)
Surely the God of cup draws will finally smile on City tonight.
The team that never ever get a dream tie have surely earned a juicy one when the fourth-round balls are plucked out of the bag. Manchester United
or Chelsea will do or, if not, maybe Spurs or Arsenal.
We're not fussy but a Premier League plum should be nailed on after the most stirring of fightbacks to conquer Burton.
Just over 4,000 braved the constant pouring rain to trudge to Valley Parade but how that loyalty got its reward.
City looked out for the count at 2-0 down with eight minutes to go.
Step forward substitute Nahki Wells with two late goals to force extra-time. And then take a bow Stephen Darby, the most unsung of heroes.
The former Liverpool right back, one of six changes from Saturday, chose the perfect moment to score his first goal for City. The 115th minute to
be precise as his skidding 30-yard drive nestled in the bottom corner.
And City could look forward to their first appearance in the last 16 for nearly a quarter of a century.
Phil Parkinson made six changes, just as he had done for the previous round at Watford. It was a particularly big night for Ricky Ravenhill, back
in the fold for the first time since damaging knee ligaments at Guiseley in pre-season.
The pitch had stood up remarkably well to two days of non-stop rain. The £50,000 work on it over the summer was put to the test and extra verti-
draining work last week helped prevent a repeat of the surface water that had affected the Fleetwood game.
Garry Thompson and Alan Connell were back in harness up front as they had been at Vicarage Road. And Thompson, the last-gasp hero that night,
almost had another cup goal inside four minutes.
Gary Jones exploited the slick conditions with a low drive that escaped from Stuart Tomlinson's grasp. Thompson was on the rebound in a flash but
the keeper managed to block his follow-up.
Then it was Connell's turn to unnerve the keeper after Andrew Davies picked him out. The striker's shot on the turn gave Tomlinson more trouble
as he unconvincingly two-handed it away.
But City's bright start came to a shuddering halt after 18 minutes when Burton struck from their first attack. Jack Dyer whipped a cross in for
Billy Kee, whose clinical first-time finish flew past Matt Duke.
Tomlinson was straight back in action to deal with a Hines curler but City had another warning from Burton's first corner, Zander Diamondnodding
over after Aaron Webster flicked across goal. The Brewers were really settling into the contest – and rocked the home side with a second on the
half hour from another corner after Duke had denied Lee Bell.
Jones, at the near post, nodded Webster's free header straight back out but he was obviously behind the line as the assistant on the Midland Road
side flagged for the goal.
Burton's tails were up but Tomlinson was still uncomfortable against the low shot. Jones had him scrabbling once again but there was no City
striker close enough to pounce when the ball came loose.
Connell went down looking for a penalty and was reprimanded by two Burton defenders. Boss Gary Rowett was equally unimpressed and vented his
feelings to the fourth official.
Hines almost played Thompson in but his first touch round the keeper was heavy and Webster was able to get across and block any target of the
uncovered goal.
The crowd sensed a City rally as half-time approached and cranked up the volume but Burton, with a two-goal cushion, had blue shirts back in
numbers.
Duke had an uncomfortable moment when Dyer managed to retrieve an overhit cross, the keeper just managing to palm away from under his bar.
But Tomlinson was back under the cosh again to keep out Rory McArdle's header.
The half-time scoreline was harsh on City, who had played some decent stuff but still found themselves going in two behind.
Connell again went down in the corner of the box after a jinking run but referee Nigel Miller gave the decision the other way and booked the City
striker for diving.
City's defending looked less than convincing at times and Anthony O'Connor was allowed another free header from a corner. Fortunately this one
flew well wide.
With half an hour left, Parkinson decided it was cavalry time and threw on James Hanson , Nahki Wells and Kyel Reid in a treble substitution.
City continued to press. Thompson cut inside from Reid's cross but his shot was blocked by O'Connor, then Hanson 's square ball fell just behind
Wells.
O'Connor was Burton's saviour once more with a stretching clearance to toe the ball away from Hanson after Reid stuck an inviting pass into the
six-yard box.
Then James Meredith and Reid rescued a Jones free-kick but Will Atkinson could not direct his drive through a crowd of players.
Burton's yellow-card count was rising but they still withstood the City pressure. Reid skilfully nutmegged two defenders before Wells fired past
the near post.
But the Bermudian made the breakthrough with seven minutes left. Collecting Meredith's pass in his stride, he left Tomlinson with no chance to
send the ball soaring into the far corner.
City were indebted to Duke denying Matt Paterson on a Burton breakaway as they poured forward looking for an equaliser. That save got even bigger
when one arrived a minute from time.
Jones' free-kick was half-cleared; the ball came back in the box, where Hanson's attempted overhead kick fell for Wells to divert home. It was
another classic poacher's strike from the sub.
Extra-time carried on in a similar vein but penalties loomed. Or so we thought until Darby swung a right foot and drilled City into the fourth
round in emphatic fashion.
===========================
Water hero! Groundsman plays a blinder as Bantams book their place in last 16 of cup
6:50am Wednesday 26th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Groundsman Mick Doyle was held up as the unlikely hero behind City's first League Cup fourth-round appearance for 24 years.
An extra-time blast from right back Stephen Darby sealed an incredible 3-2 fightback win over Burton at the Coral Windows Stadium. Sub Nahki
Wells had struck twice in the final eight minutes as the Bantams roared back from two down.
But Phil Parkinson reserved special praise for Doyle and his staff who had made the Valley Parade pitch playable despite horrendous weather
conditions.
The game was never in doubt after two days of solid rain and Parkinson said: "Mick Doyle was definitely my man of the match. He gets ten out of
ten from me.
"Sometimes you have unsung heroes in football clubs and the effort Mick and his team put in to get it on was outstanding.
"I don't think anybody thought it would be but the surface was fantastic. Once the teams are here, nobody wants to see it called off so it was
fantastic.
"To pass the ball and play at a good tempo, which is what we want to do, you need a good surface and we certainly have that."
City will be the lowest-ranked side in tonight's draw for the last 16 after another never-say-die victory. Having seen off Notts County in
extra-time and toppled Watford with a last-gasp winner, Park-inson was amazed by their latest show of resilience.
He added: "At half-time I felt the 2-0 scoreline was unjust because we dominated up to their first goal. But we just told the lads to keep going.
"The performance level they put in was exceptional and some of the football great to watch. We always felt we'd create chances and probably could
have scored more.
"Kicking towards that (Kop) goal, the crowd really sucked the ball into the net. There was only 4,000 in the ground but there was a good
atmosphere.
"We made changes and the lads who came in did really well. Equally the subs had a massive impact on the game.
"You need a strong bench and we certainly had that.
"And I'm so pleased for Stephen Darby. In years to come, people will remember that goal for putting the club through this far in the
competition."
As the sole League Two survivor, Parkinson is now keeping his fingers crossed that City pull out a mouth-watering draw against Premier League
opposition in the next round.
He said: "The players, supporters and the chairmen in particular deserve a big draw. We've worked really hard to get to this stage.
"There's now the chance to get that lucrative tie and I hope that is the case for everybody in the club."
===========================
#bcafc CITY draw Wigan away in the 4th round of Capital One Cup
Ties to be played week commencing October 29th
===========================
Wells signs new deal
15:18 28th September 2012
The Bantams have been handed a massive pre-match boost ahead of their home fixture with Port Vale this Saturday with the news that striker Nahki Wells has signed a new deal with the club.
The popular forward, pictured alongside Director of Operations David Baldwin, has committed his immediate future to City by signing a fresh contract which will keep him at the Coral Windows Stadium until July 2015.
Wells, whose original deal was due to expire next summer, has been given a new deal for this campaign on improved terms with a further two seasons bolted onto the end of it.
After finishing last season in fine form, including a match-winning hat-trick at Northampton Town back in April, Wells has carried his good run in front of goal into this season as well.
Following his crucial double against Burton Albion in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday, Wells already has five goals to his name this season to leave him level-pegging with fellow forward James Hanson at the top of City's scoring charts.
Wells himself commented: "I'm happy that this is all sorted and agreed with the football club."
"I always wanted to stay at Bradford. I felt this was something that was always going to happen, we just needed everything to be right for both parties.
"Now it's all signed, I'm delighted to get it done and hopefully the fans will be pleased by the news as well.
"I'd like to thank them (the fans) for all of their great support so far. They always give me a buzz when they chant my name. I just hope I can do well for them, my family and the football club now.
"We have a good squad here and I'm looking forward to the future."
A delighted Bantams boss Phil Parkinson added: "I am obviously pleased to see Nahki commit his future to the football club."
"It is always important to try and keep your best players at the club. Nahki has done very well for us in recent months and has shown a lot of potential.
"We hope that he can continue to grow and improve with us now he has signed this new deal."
Friday, September 28, 2012
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
L2 W2-0 (A) oxford United Saturday September 22, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM. #bcafc
Npower League Two
Oxford Utd (0) 0
Bradford C (0) 2 A Davies 52, Wells 68.
Att: 6,032
Read this article online
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CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
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The "Social media Corner"
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===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Oxford - Bradford C
Possession: 45 - 55%
Shots on target: 1 - 6
Shots off target: 4 - 8
Fouls: 8 - 13
Corners: 2 - 7
Ref: Andy Davies (Hampshire).
Yellow cards:
Oxford: Cox 59', Constable 75'.
Bradford C: Hanson 45+2.
OXFORD UTD: 1. Ryan Clarke, 2. Damien Batt, 4. Michael Raynes, 6. Jake
Wright, 23. Luke O'Brien 61, 8. Simon Heslop 61, 19. Lee Cox, 17. Tony
Capaldi, 15. Alfie Potter, 9. James Constable, 29. Tom Craddock.
SUBS: 21. Wayne Brown, 10. Deane Smalley, 14. Sean Rigg 61, 20. Peter Leven
61, 22. Harry Worley, 24. Daniel Boateng, 28. Tyrone Marsh.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 23. Rory McArdle, 6. Luke Oliver, 5. Andrew
Davies, 3. James Meredith, 7. Kyel Reid 81, 18. Gary Jones, 24. Nathan
Doyle, 14. Will Atkinson, 9. James Hanson, 21. Nahki Wells 69.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke, 2. Stephen Darby, 4. Ricky Ravenhill, 11. Garry
Thompson 69, 16. Carl McHugh, 17. Alan Connell, 20. Zavon Hines 81.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City's first away win of the season made it three in a week for
Phil Parkinson's bubbling Bantams.
Two second-half goals from corners from Andrew Davies - his third of the
season - and Nahki Wells clinched a comfortable three points at out-of-sorts
Oxford.
The home side were consigned to their fifth straight defeat but that was no
concern to City and the 393 travelling fans.
City looked confident in the opening stages and had the first shot of the
game after 15 minutes when Kyel Reid blazed wide from 25 yards.
Home keeper Ryan Clarke got himself into trouble when he chased a long ball
from James Meredith. Wells got there ahead of him, leaving Clarke in no
man's land, but the angle proved too tight for the Bermudian and the keeper
recovered to make a save.
Tony Capaldi, a left back playing in midfield, fired Oxford's first effort
harmlessly off target but City seemed to lose their spark as the first half
went on. It was a flat game with little going on at either end.
James Hanson headed off target and was booked right on half-time for a
challenge on Michael Raynes.
But City picked it up straight from the restart and were soon in front.
Gary Jones had a free-kick saved and then Kyel Reid's drive through a crowd
of players was turned behind by Clarke. But from the corner, Jones picked
out Davies who rose to head home.
City almost had a quick-fire second as Reid picked out Atkinson whose angled
header just beat the post.
James Constable fired over the bar when the visitors were briefly down to
ten men after Luke Oliver received treatment.
But City tightened their grip by pouncing from another Jones corner. Rory
McArdle flicked on at the near post and Wells diverted it in from a couple
of yards.
Jon McLaughlin prevented a Morecambe-style immediate riposte by beating away
Peter Leven's free-kick.
And it should have been 3-0 when sub Garry Thompson released Atkinson. With
Hanson waiting for a tap-in, the midfielder went alone and his shot was
blocked, Jones firing the rebound into the car park.
Leven bent another free-kick over before Hanson headed wide as City
maintained their control to see out the game.
Oxford were booed off at the end as City milked another impressive result in
front of their supporters.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Full marks to Bantams as they win with a degree of comfort
8:00am Monday 24th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Oxford United 0 Bradford City 2
If Oxford University ran a course on how to win away games, this could have been the template.
The three-quarters built Kassam Stadium may be far removed from the dreaming spires of the city's academia; shoved on an out-of-town industrial estate.
But this was a lesson that even the keenest student could learn from. A master and pupil afternoon which saw the visitors pass out with honours.
City's first league win off Valley Parade soil could not have been more comprehensive. This was a 90-minute study in how to nullify your hosts, especially those with such shaky self-confidence, and then clinically pick them off.
The first half was a drab spectacle with hardly a chance of note. But that was half the job done for the Bantams as they removed what sting Oxford might have possessed on the back of a morale-sapping run of four straight defeats.
Then Phil Parkinson's men stepped it up after the break and killed the contest with two mercy shots from corners, inevitably delivered by that man Gary Jones.
No wonder Parkinson looked as relaxed as a tourist taking a Saturday afternoon stroll through the city's architecture.
"I always felt comfortable on the touchline and you don't always get that away from home," he said.
"We had control of the game. Gary and Doyley (Nathan Doyle) are so disciplined (in midfield) but they're also good footballers, which gave us control of the ball."
City had done their studies at Apperley Bridge 48 hours earlier as Parkinson and Steve Parkin chaired a team meeting to outline the formula for unlocking that opening win on the road.
Rather than telling the players what should be done, the management threw the floor open.
Parkinson added: "I said to the lads that there was a still a question mark about us because we hadn't won away in the league.
"We had a general chat and I asked them 'you tell me what we need'. They gave us the answers.
"They understand it's about the discipline of the team and work ethic and accepting that things are going to go against you away.
"We did that on Saturday and dealt with it to a man. Everything they talked about, they delivered."
Nahki Wells got the nod over an unlucky Alan Connell as Parkinson looked for extra pace to unhinge Oxford's centre halves. Will Atkinson replaced Zavon Hines in a more conservative midfield against a side who used three in the middle.
You would have thought City had the extra man in that engine room as Doyle and Jones dictated the play, quickly nullified any Oxford threat and generally swaggered about the place.
But there was only one moment of note for 45 minutes when keeper Ryan Clarke had a rush of blood and came rushing out for James Meredith's long clearance.
Instead Wells got in there first but the angle was tight and by the time he had adjusted for a proper shooting position, Clarke was able to recover and bat away.
Oxford looked like a side who had forgotten how to win. Too many loose passes revealed their nerves on the ball and the crowd were silent and twitchy.
Luke O'Brien had a steady debut against his former club and didn't display any obvious rust in his first proper run-out since March. But too many of his Oxford team-mates simply lacked belief.
The near 400-strong away following knew this was as good a chance as any for City to open that win column.
The Bantams were winning battles across the pitch, none more so than on the left flank where the excellent Meredith dovetailed dangerously with Kyel Reid. Right back Damian Batt didn't know what day it was at times.
Reid forced Clarke into a sprawling save through a crowd of legs but the resulting corner proved Oxford's undoing. Jones picked out the far post where Andrew Davies came barrelling through to hammer his third goal of the season.
Unlike the previous two, there was no doubt about his intentions this time as the centre half elevated himself to City's second top scorer. He had the war wounds to prove it.
Parkinson has worked long and hard to see his side capitalise on their height at set-plays. Davies has responded more than anyone.
His boss said: "Andrew's a good finisher – you see that in training when we play small-sided games and he's one of the best.
"You need bravery in the box because to score goals you don't often get a clear header looping over everyone.
"You have to go in there with intent, which Andrew certainly did. He's gone in where angels fear to tread."
James Constable fired over while City were temporarily down to ten men after Luke Oliver went off for treatment. It was a mild warning but hardly a concerted response.
Oxford's brittle resistance finally snapped from another corner. This time it was the near post where Rory McArdle, who had a rock-solid game at right back, appeared from nowhere to flick on goalwards.
The ball was probably going in anyway but Wells made sure on the line and the result was guaranteed.
Jon McLaughlin risked his sore hip, flinging himself to his right to double-fist away a free-kick from Peter Leven – Oxford's only effort on target. But City's dominance should have been rewarded with a third goal when Garry Thompson cleverly freed Atkinson to dance past some tired, half-hearted challenges.
Ploughing into the box, he picked the wrong option by shooting instead of finding the unmarked James Hanson for a tap-in. Clarke blocked and Jones blazed the rebound into the car park behind the goal.
It hardly mattered as Oxford trudged off to a crescendo of boos from those fans who had not made an early exit. The City section, fittingly bathed in the late afternoon sunshine, bounced with the players.
As Parkinson said later, nothing beats an away win. Stick to this crib sheet and there could be plenty more to enjoy.
===========================
LAWN COUNTING COST OF CUP RUN
By Simon Parker, (T&A Bradford City Reporter)
Bradford City could lose money from their first League Cup third-round
appearance for 11 years.
The Bantams face fellow League Two side Burton on Tuesday aiming for a spot
in the Capital One last 16.
But the unexpected cup run, which included a shock win at Watford, has not
earned them anything because there is no prize money in the early rounds.
That was stopped last season but the players still receive win bonuses for
going through as part of an agreement with the union.
City joint-chairman Mark Lawn admitted: "If we don't get a good crowd
against Burton then, with the bonuses we have to pay the players, we could
technically make a loss. That's ridiculous at this stage of the competition.
"They have changed the whole aspect. There's no win bonuses for getting
through the rounds until you reach the semi-finals and then you have to win
that to receive £25,000.
"People call the Johnstone's Paint Trophy a Mickey Mouse cup but at least
you get money for winning each round. It may not be much but at least it
covers the costs, which is more than you get in this one."
City received £11,000 as their share of the net receipts from last month's
win at Vicarage Road. But they estimate that half of that disappeared on
player bonuses with travel costs on top.
Lawn added: "When we're playing Watford, we aren't a big draw for them so
it's hardly going to fill the ground, particularly on a Tuesday night when a
lot of fans don't come out anyway.
"The bonuses were set by the PFA (Professional Footballers Association) when
teams were getting prize money. Now they won't let you alter bonuses unless
the players agree to it as a group and who's going to do that?
"So we're stuck between a rock and a hard place. It's a good competition but
we're not going to win it and from a monetary point of view it's not the
best.
"We need to get a big draw if we get through with some Sky money. Man United
or Arsenal away would do but knowing our luck it will be Crawley!"
Not that Lawn is expecting an easy ride against the only other survivor from
the bottom division. Burton have won three on the bounce and will be just as
confident of making it to the big boys.
He said: "We have got to be wary because they are winning games and scoring
goals. Burton are certainly a lot better than last year and have been on top
form.
"But it's good to see us playing well at home. The fans deserve it and they
are getting good value for money at the moment."
Oxford Utd (0) 0
Bradford C (0) 2 A Davies 52, Wells 68.
Att: 6,032
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Oxford - Bradford C
Possession: 45 - 55%
Shots on target: 1 - 6
Shots off target: 4 - 8
Fouls: 8 - 13
Corners: 2 - 7
Ref: Andy Davies (Hampshire).
Yellow cards:
Oxford: Cox 59', Constable 75'.
Bradford C: Hanson 45+2.
OXFORD UTD: 1. Ryan Clarke, 2. Damien Batt, 4. Michael Raynes, 6. Jake
Wright, 23. Luke O'Brien 61, 8. Simon Heslop 61, 19. Lee Cox, 17. Tony
Capaldi, 15. Alfie Potter, 9. James Constable, 29. Tom Craddock.
SUBS: 21. Wayne Brown, 10. Deane Smalley, 14. Sean Rigg 61, 20. Peter Leven
61, 22. Harry Worley, 24. Daniel Boateng, 28. Tyrone Marsh.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 23. Rory McArdle, 6. Luke Oliver, 5. Andrew
Davies, 3. James Meredith, 7. Kyel Reid 81, 18. Gary Jones, 24. Nathan
Doyle, 14. Will Atkinson, 9. James Hanson, 21. Nahki Wells 69.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke, 2. Stephen Darby, 4. Ricky Ravenhill, 11. Garry
Thompson 69, 16. Carl McHugh, 17. Alan Connell, 20. Zavon Hines 81.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City's first away win of the season made it three in a week for
Phil Parkinson's bubbling Bantams.
Two second-half goals from corners from Andrew Davies - his third of the
season - and Nahki Wells clinched a comfortable three points at out-of-sorts
Oxford.
The home side were consigned to their fifth straight defeat but that was no
concern to City and the 393 travelling fans.
City looked confident in the opening stages and had the first shot of the
game after 15 minutes when Kyel Reid blazed wide from 25 yards.
Home keeper Ryan Clarke got himself into trouble when he chased a long ball
from James Meredith. Wells got there ahead of him, leaving Clarke in no
man's land, but the angle proved too tight for the Bermudian and the keeper
recovered to make a save.
Tony Capaldi, a left back playing in midfield, fired Oxford's first effort
harmlessly off target but City seemed to lose their spark as the first half
went on. It was a flat game with little going on at either end.
James Hanson headed off target and was booked right on half-time for a
challenge on Michael Raynes.
But City picked it up straight from the restart and were soon in front.
Gary Jones had a free-kick saved and then Kyel Reid's drive through a crowd
of players was turned behind by Clarke. But from the corner, Jones picked
out Davies who rose to head home.
City almost had a quick-fire second as Reid picked out Atkinson whose angled
header just beat the post.
James Constable fired over the bar when the visitors were briefly down to
ten men after Luke Oliver received treatment.
But City tightened their grip by pouncing from another Jones corner. Rory
McArdle flicked on at the near post and Wells diverted it in from a couple
of yards.
Jon McLaughlin prevented a Morecambe-style immediate riposte by beating away
Peter Leven's free-kick.
And it should have been 3-0 when sub Garry Thompson released Atkinson. With
Hanson waiting for a tap-in, the midfielder went alone and his shot was
blocked, Jones firing the rebound into the car park.
Leven bent another free-kick over before Hanson headed wide as City
maintained their control to see out the game.
Oxford were booed off at the end as City milked another impressive result in
front of their supporters.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Full marks to Bantams as they win with a degree of comfort
8:00am Monday 24th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Oxford United 0 Bradford City 2
If Oxford University ran a course on how to win away games, this could have been the template.
The three-quarters built Kassam Stadium may be far removed from the dreaming spires of the city's academia; shoved on an out-of-town industrial estate.
But this was a lesson that even the keenest student could learn from. A master and pupil afternoon which saw the visitors pass out with honours.
City's first league win off Valley Parade soil could not have been more comprehensive. This was a 90-minute study in how to nullify your hosts, especially those with such shaky self-confidence, and then clinically pick them off.
The first half was a drab spectacle with hardly a chance of note. But that was half the job done for the Bantams as they removed what sting Oxford might have possessed on the back of a morale-sapping run of four straight defeats.
Then Phil Parkinson's men stepped it up after the break and killed the contest with two mercy shots from corners, inevitably delivered by that man Gary Jones.
No wonder Parkinson looked as relaxed as a tourist taking a Saturday afternoon stroll through the city's architecture.
"I always felt comfortable on the touchline and you don't always get that away from home," he said.
"We had control of the game. Gary and Doyley (Nathan Doyle) are so disciplined (in midfield) but they're also good footballers, which gave us control of the ball."
City had done their studies at Apperley Bridge 48 hours earlier as Parkinson and Steve Parkin chaired a team meeting to outline the formula for unlocking that opening win on the road.
Rather than telling the players what should be done, the management threw the floor open.
Parkinson added: "I said to the lads that there was a still a question mark about us because we hadn't won away in the league.
"We had a general chat and I asked them 'you tell me what we need'. They gave us the answers.
"They understand it's about the discipline of the team and work ethic and accepting that things are going to go against you away.
"We did that on Saturday and dealt with it to a man. Everything they talked about, they delivered."
Nahki Wells got the nod over an unlucky Alan Connell as Parkinson looked for extra pace to unhinge Oxford's centre halves. Will Atkinson replaced Zavon Hines in a more conservative midfield against a side who used three in the middle.
You would have thought City had the extra man in that engine room as Doyle and Jones dictated the play, quickly nullified any Oxford threat and generally swaggered about the place.
But there was only one moment of note for 45 minutes when keeper Ryan Clarke had a rush of blood and came rushing out for James Meredith's long clearance.
Instead Wells got in there first but the angle was tight and by the time he had adjusted for a proper shooting position, Clarke was able to recover and bat away.
Oxford looked like a side who had forgotten how to win. Too many loose passes revealed their nerves on the ball and the crowd were silent and twitchy.
Luke O'Brien had a steady debut against his former club and didn't display any obvious rust in his first proper run-out since March. But too many of his Oxford team-mates simply lacked belief.
The near 400-strong away following knew this was as good a chance as any for City to open that win column.
The Bantams were winning battles across the pitch, none more so than on the left flank where the excellent Meredith dovetailed dangerously with Kyel Reid. Right back Damian Batt didn't know what day it was at times.
Reid forced Clarke into a sprawling save through a crowd of legs but the resulting corner proved Oxford's undoing. Jones picked out the far post where Andrew Davies came barrelling through to hammer his third goal of the season.
Unlike the previous two, there was no doubt about his intentions this time as the centre half elevated himself to City's second top scorer. He had the war wounds to prove it.
Parkinson has worked long and hard to see his side capitalise on their height at set-plays. Davies has responded more than anyone.
His boss said: "Andrew's a good finisher – you see that in training when we play small-sided games and he's one of the best.
"You need bravery in the box because to score goals you don't often get a clear header looping over everyone.
"You have to go in there with intent, which Andrew certainly did. He's gone in where angels fear to tread."
James Constable fired over while City were temporarily down to ten men after Luke Oliver went off for treatment. It was a mild warning but hardly a concerted response.
Oxford's brittle resistance finally snapped from another corner. This time it was the near post where Rory McArdle, who had a rock-solid game at right back, appeared from nowhere to flick on goalwards.
The ball was probably going in anyway but Wells made sure on the line and the result was guaranteed.
Jon McLaughlin risked his sore hip, flinging himself to his right to double-fist away a free-kick from Peter Leven – Oxford's only effort on target. But City's dominance should have been rewarded with a third goal when Garry Thompson cleverly freed Atkinson to dance past some tired, half-hearted challenges.
Ploughing into the box, he picked the wrong option by shooting instead of finding the unmarked James Hanson for a tap-in. Clarke blocked and Jones blazed the rebound into the car park behind the goal.
It hardly mattered as Oxford trudged off to a crescendo of boos from those fans who had not made an early exit. The City section, fittingly bathed in the late afternoon sunshine, bounced with the players.
As Parkinson said later, nothing beats an away win. Stick to this crib sheet and there could be plenty more to enjoy.
===========================
LAWN COUNTING COST OF CUP RUN
By Simon Parker, (T&A Bradford City Reporter)
Bradford City could lose money from their first League Cup third-round
appearance for 11 years.
The Bantams face fellow League Two side Burton on Tuesday aiming for a spot
in the Capital One last 16.
But the unexpected cup run, which included a shock win at Watford, has not
earned them anything because there is no prize money in the early rounds.
That was stopped last season but the players still receive win bonuses for
going through as part of an agreement with the union.
City joint-chairman Mark Lawn admitted: "If we don't get a good crowd
against Burton then, with the bonuses we have to pay the players, we could
technically make a loss. That's ridiculous at this stage of the competition.
"They have changed the whole aspect. There's no win bonuses for getting
through the rounds until you reach the semi-finals and then you have to win
that to receive £25,000.
"People call the Johnstone's Paint Trophy a Mickey Mouse cup but at least
you get money for winning each round. It may not be much but at least it
covers the costs, which is more than you get in this one."
City received £11,000 as their share of the net receipts from last month's
win at Vicarage Road. But they estimate that half of that disappeared on
player bonuses with travel costs on top.
Lawn added: "When we're playing Watford, we aren't a big draw for them so
it's hardly going to fill the ground, particularly on a Tuesday night when a
lot of fans don't come out anyway.
"The bonuses were set by the PFA (Professional Footballers Association) when
teams were getting prize money. Now they won't let you alter bonuses unless
the players agree to it as a group and who's going to do that?
"So we're stuck between a rock and a hard place. It's a good competition but
we're not going to win it and from a monetary point of view it's not the
best.
"We need to get a big draw if we get through with some Sky money. Man United
or Arsenal away would do but knowing our luck it will be Crawley!"
Not that Lawn is expecting an easy ride against the only other survivor from
the bottom division. Burton have won three on the bounce and will be just as
confident of making it to the big boys.
He said: "We have got to be wary because they are winning games and scoring
goals. Burton are certainly a lot better than last year and have been on top
form.
"But it's good to see us playing well at home. The fans deserve it and they
are getting good value for money at the moment."
Friday, September 21, 2012
L2 W3-1 (H) Morecambe Tuesday September 18, 2012. K.O. 7:45PM. #bcafc
Npower League Two
Bradford C (1) 3 Hanson 45, Reid 80, Jones 87
Morecambe (0) 1 Redshaw 82
Att: 9,054
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
3rd goal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWWvTMokgU0&feature=plcp
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
John Hannah, 3 month loan to Grimsby
Jon McLaughlin, side/hip, "not serious", match day fitness test v Oxford
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.skysports.com/video/inline/0,26691,16479_8093257,00.html
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19553942
Stats: Bradford C - Morecambe
Possession: 47 - 53%
Shots on target: 8 - 2
Shots off target: 8 - 4
Fouls: 10 - 12
Corners: 5 - 4
Ref: David Webb (Lancashire).
Yellow cards:
Bradford C: Reid 27', Jones 52'.
Morecambe: Roche 53', Redshaw 85', Drummond 90'.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin 88', 23. Rory McArdle, 6. Luke Oliver, 5.
Andrew Davies, 3. James Meredith, 20. Zavon Hines 72', 18. Gary Jones, 24.
Nathan Doyle, 7. Kyel Reid, 17. Alan Connell 68', 9. James Hanson,.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke 88', 2. Stephen Darby, 4. Ricky Ravenhill, 11. Garry
Thompson, 14. Will Atkinson 72', 16. Carl McHugh, 21. Nahki Wells 68'.
MORECAMBE: 1. Barry Roche, 7. Izak Reid, 2. Nick Fenton, 6. Will Haining,
22. Andy Parrish, 3. Robbie Threlfall 86', 16. Stewart Drummond, 17. Andrew
Fleming 74', 8. Andrew Wright, 11. Kevin Ellison, 10. Richard Brodie 62'.
SUBS: 25. Andreas Arestidou, 14. Jordan Burrow 74', 18. Gary McDonald 86',
19. Joe McGee, 20. Joe Mwasile, 23. Chris Doyle, 27. Jack Redshaw 62.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Fortress Valley Parade lives on after City made it four wins out of four
tonight.
Goals from James Hanson , his fifth of the season, Kyel Reid and a wonderful
free-kick from Gary Jones inflicted Morecambe's first defeat on their
travels.
Kevin Ellison was close to giving Morecambe a lead inside 30 seconds before
City responded with Alan Connell's shot turned round the post from Hanson 's
flick-on.
Connell had another chance on 20 minutes but his downward header, again from
a Hanson set-up, was again saved by Barry Roche.
Rory McArdle headed over from a Jones corner as City continued to boss the
half.
The breakthrough finally came just before the break when Kyel Reid's
first-time cross was superbly drilled home by Hanson.
Nathan Doyle forced another save from Roche after the restart before
Morecambe finally woke up as an attacking force.
Robbie Threlfall was denied an unlikely goal on his Valley Parade return by
Jon McLaughlin 's save. Then Jones was the goal line hero to keep out a
back-heel from Richard Brodie.
City doubled their lead with another good finish from Reid eight minutes
from time - his first at Valley Parade.
But Morecambe immediately pegged one back through Andy Parrish and
McLaughlin was then forced into a low save from Ellison, hurting himself in
the process.
City's nerves were soothed, though, by a stunning set-piece from Gary Jones
to bank another three points.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Three strikes and they're out! Parkinson delight at Bradford City hot-shots
7:30am Wednesday 19th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson lauded City's "first class" finishing after they claimed a fourth successive home win to join League Two's early pace-setters.
Classy strikes from James Hanson , Kyel Reid and skipper Gary Jones sealed a 3-1 victory over Morecambe last night to extend the perfect start at
Valley Parade .
Parkinson said: "It was a tough game because Morecambe have got a really good away record. To be the first team to beat them on their travels is
a really good feeling.
"We were nice and tight and competitive and you always felt we would cause problems when we got the ball. The quality of our goals was first
class."
Hanson 's fifth of the season just before the interval gave City the breakthrough after dominating the first half.
The Bantams chief added: "It was a top class finish and his all-round performance was good. His work ethic, his heading and his defending at
set-plays were all spot on.
"He's fitter than he's ever been and he's a fantastic athlete. He wants to be successful but he's got to keep doing it.
"He has to win headers he has no right to, which is what he did. If you're a centre back, you wouldn't like to have marked him."
Jones cleared off the line from Richard Brodie before Reid fired his first goal on home soil. Jack Redshaw immediately reduced the deficit before
Jones made sure with a free-kick into the top corner.
Parkinson said: "My only complaint with the boys was that we lost our cool slightly and made a couple of rash decisions at the back. We lost our
focus for a spell but that's being hyper critical.
"We came through the other side of that and played some terrific stuff. Nahki (Wells) and Will (Atkinson) came on and made great contributions.
"I'm so pleased for Reidy because that's his first goal at Valley Parade. When he got that, he looked ten-foot tall.
"Gary also deserves a goal for his performances since he's been at the club. Big players step up in important moments and what a captain's
contribution that was.
"I can't remember us scoring a free-kick from the edge of the box since I've been here. It's frustrating because when the stats come up at the
end of the season, you've got to get goals from those positions.
"We've got players who are tricky who are going to get fouled in that area but we know Gary is someone who can score from there."
Keeper Jon McLaughlin provided a late injury scare when he had to come off after hurting his side while making a save from Kevin Ellison.
===========================
3rd goal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWWvTMokgU0&feature=plcp
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
McLAUGHLIN TO BE ASSESSED
City boss Phil Parkinson says it is too early to work out the exact nature
of the injury picked up by Jon McLaughlin towards the end of Tuesday's
victory over Morecambe.
McLaughlin was forced off two minutes before the end of normal time after
appearing to damage his hip while making an important save from former
Bantams loanee Kevin Ellison.
It is hoped the problem isn't too serious but Parkinson would be more than
happy to throw Matt Duke back in between the sticks for Saturday's match at
Oxford United should McLaughlin be ruled out.
Parkinson said: "Jon's damaged his side - we're not too sure how bad that is
at this stage. We'll obviously have to get him checked out with Matt (Barras
- City's Head Physio)
"Dukey's (Matt Duke) come on and done fine though, we'd have no problems if
he were to be involved on Saturday (at Oxford United).
"I must actually give a special mention to Dukey. He started the season
really well but I just took the decision to bring Jon in at Accrington
because I felt he was looking really sharp.
"He took that decision like a man. He has trained like a demon in training
every day. That is credit to him and the sort of attitude we need from all
of the lads who find themselves out of the team at the moment."
===========================
McLaughlin and Duke keeping each other on their toes at Bradford City
7:00am Friday 21st September 2012
By Simon Parker
Goalkeeping stand-offs are all the rage in the Premier League these days.
Anders Lindegaard and David De Gea are slugging it out for the Manchester United starting job, while French international Hugo Lloris may have
cost Spurs £8million but he cannot dislodge veteran Brad Friedel.
Three divisions below, a similar battle is developing at Valley Parade between Jon McLaughlin and Matt Duke.
Senior partner Duke kicked off the campaign before McLaughlin got his chance a fortnight ago at Accrington. They then both took to the pitch on
Tuesday after McLaughlin went off in the closing minutes with a side injury.
In the battle of the Bantams number ones, there is no obvious first choice.
McLaughlin admitted: "It's an interesting situation for this league, although you often see it higher up.
"When you feel you've got the ability to be in that first-team squad and playing on a Saturday, that's what you want to be doing. Myself and
Dukey both feel we're more than good enough to play at this level.
"We've just got to do our job on the training pitch and try and put in performances if we get selected. Then it's up to the manager who he picks.
"It might not be a case of getting the shirt for the full season but it does mean you're being kept on your toes every week."
Phil Parkinson highlighted Duke's attitude after being dropped. While the competition between them is fierce, both keepers get on well.
Duke's promotion to goalkeeping coach following Kevin Pressman's sudden departure for Millwall adds an extra dimension.
McLaughlin said: "It's still early days but it has been working so far. It's more like a partnership, with Dukey taking the training sessions.
"We are good friends, training partners and team-mates, so it's not really like a boss and player mentality.
"I'm sure there will be pros and cons, like anything, but we've got to do the best we can with it and make sure it doesn't affect us in any
negative way."
McLaughlin should be well used to the competition after previously fighting the likes of Rhys Evans, Matt Glennon and Lenny Pidgeley for a
regular slot in the team. But he senses a more fluid system this season.
He said: "There are different ways of looking at it. Sometimes it's nice to have the confidence of knowing you are the first-choice goalkeeper.
"At the same time, it is never a good thing in football to get complacent and think that there's nobody behind you to take your place if
performances drop.
"Dukey's played at the highest level, he is a really experienced keeper and still in great physical shape and form.
"We've seen already that this is a really competitive league and if someone's not doing it, you'll get replaced. That's going to be the case with
us this year.
"Often with goalkeepers you keep the shirt until you make mistakes. This season might not be a case of that.
"If you're not putting in eight out of ten each week, they might think that Dukey or Jon could come in and do better.
"It's a real season of fighting and competing for that spot to make it one of the strongest in the team."
Bradford C (1) 3 Hanson 45, Reid 80, Jones 87
Morecambe (0) 1 Redshaw 82
Att: 9,054
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
3rd goal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWWvTMokgU0&feature=plcp
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
John Hannah, 3 month loan to Grimsby
Jon McLaughlin, side/hip, "not serious", match day fitness test v Oxford
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.skysports.com/video/inline/0,26691,16479_8093257,00.html
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19553942
Stats: Bradford C - Morecambe
Possession: 47 - 53%
Shots on target: 8 - 2
Shots off target: 8 - 4
Fouls: 10 - 12
Corners: 5 - 4
Ref: David Webb (Lancashire).
Yellow cards:
Bradford C: Reid 27', Jones 52'.
Morecambe: Roche 53', Redshaw 85', Drummond 90'.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin 88', 23. Rory McArdle, 6. Luke Oliver, 5.
Andrew Davies, 3. James Meredith, 20. Zavon Hines 72', 18. Gary Jones, 24.
Nathan Doyle, 7. Kyel Reid, 17. Alan Connell 68', 9. James Hanson,.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke 88', 2. Stephen Darby, 4. Ricky Ravenhill, 11. Garry
Thompson, 14. Will Atkinson 72', 16. Carl McHugh, 21. Nahki Wells 68'.
MORECAMBE: 1. Barry Roche, 7. Izak Reid, 2. Nick Fenton, 6. Will Haining,
22. Andy Parrish, 3. Robbie Threlfall 86', 16. Stewart Drummond, 17. Andrew
Fleming 74', 8. Andrew Wright, 11. Kevin Ellison, 10. Richard Brodie 62'.
SUBS: 25. Andreas Arestidou, 14. Jordan Burrow 74', 18. Gary McDonald 86',
19. Joe McGee, 20. Joe Mwasile, 23. Chris Doyle, 27. Jack Redshaw 62.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Fortress Valley Parade lives on after City made it four wins out of four
tonight.
Goals from James Hanson , his fifth of the season, Kyel Reid and a wonderful
free-kick from Gary Jones inflicted Morecambe's first defeat on their
travels.
Kevin Ellison was close to giving Morecambe a lead inside 30 seconds before
City responded with Alan Connell's shot turned round the post from Hanson 's
flick-on.
Connell had another chance on 20 minutes but his downward header, again from
a Hanson set-up, was again saved by Barry Roche.
Rory McArdle headed over from a Jones corner as City continued to boss the
half.
The breakthrough finally came just before the break when Kyel Reid's
first-time cross was superbly drilled home by Hanson.
Nathan Doyle forced another save from Roche after the restart before
Morecambe finally woke up as an attacking force.
Robbie Threlfall was denied an unlikely goal on his Valley Parade return by
Jon McLaughlin 's save. Then Jones was the goal line hero to keep out a
back-heel from Richard Brodie.
City doubled their lead with another good finish from Reid eight minutes
from time - his first at Valley Parade.
But Morecambe immediately pegged one back through Andy Parrish and
McLaughlin was then forced into a low save from Ellison, hurting himself in
the process.
City's nerves were soothed, though, by a stunning set-piece from Gary Jones
to bank another three points.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Three strikes and they're out! Parkinson delight at Bradford City hot-shots
7:30am Wednesday 19th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson lauded City's "first class" finishing after they claimed a fourth successive home win to join League Two's early pace-setters.
Classy strikes from James Hanson , Kyel Reid and skipper Gary Jones sealed a 3-1 victory over Morecambe last night to extend the perfect start at
Valley Parade .
Parkinson said: "It was a tough game because Morecambe have got a really good away record. To be the first team to beat them on their travels is
a really good feeling.
"We were nice and tight and competitive and you always felt we would cause problems when we got the ball. The quality of our goals was first
class."
Hanson 's fifth of the season just before the interval gave City the breakthrough after dominating the first half.
The Bantams chief added: "It was a top class finish and his all-round performance was good. His work ethic, his heading and his defending at
set-plays were all spot on.
"He's fitter than he's ever been and he's a fantastic athlete. He wants to be successful but he's got to keep doing it.
"He has to win headers he has no right to, which is what he did. If you're a centre back, you wouldn't like to have marked him."
Jones cleared off the line from Richard Brodie before Reid fired his first goal on home soil. Jack Redshaw immediately reduced the deficit before
Jones made sure with a free-kick into the top corner.
Parkinson said: "My only complaint with the boys was that we lost our cool slightly and made a couple of rash decisions at the back. We lost our
focus for a spell but that's being hyper critical.
"We came through the other side of that and played some terrific stuff. Nahki (Wells) and Will (Atkinson) came on and made great contributions.
"I'm so pleased for Reidy because that's his first goal at Valley Parade. When he got that, he looked ten-foot tall.
"Gary also deserves a goal for his performances since he's been at the club. Big players step up in important moments and what a captain's
contribution that was.
"I can't remember us scoring a free-kick from the edge of the box since I've been here. It's frustrating because when the stats come up at the
end of the season, you've got to get goals from those positions.
"We've got players who are tricky who are going to get fouled in that area but we know Gary is someone who can score from there."
Keeper Jon McLaughlin provided a late injury scare when he had to come off after hurting his side while making a save from Kevin Ellison.
===========================
3rd goal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWWvTMokgU0&feature=plcp
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
McLAUGHLIN TO BE ASSESSED
City boss Phil Parkinson says it is too early to work out the exact nature
of the injury picked up by Jon McLaughlin towards the end of Tuesday's
victory over Morecambe.
McLaughlin was forced off two minutes before the end of normal time after
appearing to damage his hip while making an important save from former
Bantams loanee Kevin Ellison.
It is hoped the problem isn't too serious but Parkinson would be more than
happy to throw Matt Duke back in between the sticks for Saturday's match at
Oxford United should McLaughlin be ruled out.
Parkinson said: "Jon's damaged his side - we're not too sure how bad that is
at this stage. We'll obviously have to get him checked out with Matt (Barras
- City's Head Physio)
"Dukey's (Matt Duke) come on and done fine though, we'd have no problems if
he were to be involved on Saturday (at Oxford United).
"I must actually give a special mention to Dukey. He started the season
really well but I just took the decision to bring Jon in at Accrington
because I felt he was looking really sharp.
"He took that decision like a man. He has trained like a demon in training
every day. That is credit to him and the sort of attitude we need from all
of the lads who find themselves out of the team at the moment."
===========================
McLaughlin and Duke keeping each other on their toes at Bradford City
7:00am Friday 21st September 2012
By Simon Parker
Goalkeeping stand-offs are all the rage in the Premier League these days.
Anders Lindegaard and David De Gea are slugging it out for the Manchester United starting job, while French international Hugo Lloris may have
cost Spurs £8million but he cannot dislodge veteran Brad Friedel.
Three divisions below, a similar battle is developing at Valley Parade between Jon McLaughlin and Matt Duke.
Senior partner Duke kicked off the campaign before McLaughlin got his chance a fortnight ago at Accrington. They then both took to the pitch on
Tuesday after McLaughlin went off in the closing minutes with a side injury.
In the battle of the Bantams number ones, there is no obvious first choice.
McLaughlin admitted: "It's an interesting situation for this league, although you often see it higher up.
"When you feel you've got the ability to be in that first-team squad and playing on a Saturday, that's what you want to be doing. Myself and
Dukey both feel we're more than good enough to play at this level.
"We've just got to do our job on the training pitch and try and put in performances if we get selected. Then it's up to the manager who he picks.
"It might not be a case of getting the shirt for the full season but it does mean you're being kept on your toes every week."
Phil Parkinson highlighted Duke's attitude after being dropped. While the competition between them is fierce, both keepers get on well.
Duke's promotion to goalkeeping coach following Kevin Pressman's sudden departure for Millwall adds an extra dimension.
McLaughlin said: "It's still early days but it has been working so far. It's more like a partnership, with Dukey taking the training sessions.
"We are good friends, training partners and team-mates, so it's not really like a boss and player mentality.
"I'm sure there will be pros and cons, like anything, but we've got to do the best we can with it and make sure it doesn't affect us in any
negative way."
McLaughlin should be well used to the competition after previously fighting the likes of Rhys Evans, Matt Glennon and Lenny Pidgeley for a
regular slot in the team. But he senses a more fluid system this season.
He said: "There are different ways of looking at it. Sometimes it's nice to have the confidence of knowing you are the first-choice goalkeeper.
"At the same time, it is never a good thing in football to get complacent and think that there's nobody behind you to take your place if
performances drop.
"Dukey's played at the highest level, he is a really experienced keeper and still in great physical shape and form.
"We've seen already that this is a really competitive league and if someone's not doing it, you'll get replaced. That's going to be the case with
us this year.
"Often with goalkeepers you keep the shirt until you make mistakes. This season might not be a case of that.
"If you're not putting in eight out of ten each week, they might think that Dukey or Jon could come in and do better.
"It's a real season of fighting and competing for that spot to make it one of the strongest in the team."
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
L2 W3-0 (H) Barnet Saturday September 15, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM. #bcafc
NPower League Two
Bradford C (0) 3 Hanson 47, Connell 55, Davies 57.
Barnet (0) 0
Att: 9,566
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Bradford C - Barnet
Possession: 57 - 43%
Shots on target: 4 - 2
Shots off target: 6 - 4
Fouls: 14 - 12
Corners: 3 - 8
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 23. Rory McArdle, 6. Luke Oliver, 5. Andrew
Davies, 3. James Meredith, 20. Zavon Hines, 24. Nathan Doyle 82', 18. Gary
Jones, 7. Kyel Reid 81', 9. James Hanson, 17. Alan Connell 70'.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke, 2. Stephen Darby, 4. Ricky Ravenhill, 11. Garry
Thompson 81', 14. Will Atkinson 82', 16. Carl McHugh, 21. Nahki Wells 70'.
BARNET: 29. Graham Stack, 2. Barry Fuller, 30. David Stephens, 32. Krystian
Pearce, 3. Jordan Brown, 25. Jamal Lowe 77', 31. John Oster 66', 4. Clovis
Kamdjo, 20. Curtis Weston, 11. Ricky Holmes, 10. Jon Nurse.
SUBS: 1. Liam O'Brien, 5. Jonathan Fortune, 6. Jack Saville, 7. Oliver Lee,
12. Luke Gambin 66', 14. Ahmed Abdulla, 17. Anthony Edgar 77'.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City maintained their 100 per cent home record with a second-half salvo to
sink bottom club Barnet this afternoon.
Three goals in a ten-minute burst straight after the restart from James
Hanson , Alan Connell and Andrew Davies sealed a comfortable three points.
It was not vintage stuff from Phil Parkinson's men but they still ran out
easy winners against a side who look consigned to another long battle
against the drop.
Connell's equaliser at Accrington had earned him promotion to the starting
line-up - and he should have had a goal inside five minutes.
A blind back pass by John Oster put Connell clear on the keeper but his shot
was a poor one and Graham Stack blocked.
It was to prove a costly miss as City struggled to breakdown a resolute
opposition. Nathan Doyle drove wide from 30 yards but otherwise there was
little pressure on Stack's goal.
Barnet, in fact, forced seven corners before the break without creating
anything other than a soft looping header by John Nurse.
City needed to step it up for the second half and did within two minutes.
Gary Jones floated a free-kick into the six-yard box and Luke Oliver knocked
it back for Hanson to head home from close range.
That opened the floodgates and Connell soon made amends for his earlier
chance, converting the rebound after Stack could only parry Kyel Reid's
well-struck low cross.
And Davies made it three goals in the space of ten minutes when he nodded
home at the far post from another Jones set-piece.
Jordan Brown just prevented Hanson from making it four from a dangerous
cross by Connell and the big striker nodded over from a corner.
But the result was already in the bag and City can look forward to Tuesday's
visit from Morecambe to keep their impressive home form going.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Fans' faith rewarded by 'routine' Bradford City victory
6:40am Monday 17th September 2012
By Simon Parker
City 3, Barnet 0
The noise, or rather lack of it, as the half-time whistle sounded was telling.
It showed how far this City team – and the public perception of them – has already come.
There were no audible boos; few, if any catcalls; just a polite smattering of applause.
Yes, the first 45 minutes had not been great. Far from it against opponents who had not mustered a single goal, let alone point, on their
travels.
But there was an underlying conviction that the supporters knew City would improve significantly for the second period. They knew the team would
get the job done.
There was no need for dissent or name-calling. Just a mature reaction in the knowledge that their patience would be rewarded – as was the case
within 12 minutes of the restart.
How often have we been able to describe a 3-0 City win at Valley Parade as "routine"? Answers to that one on a postcard please!
The third home victory of this fledgling campaign will not stick around in the memory like that Wimbledon rout. But that's the proof of a good
side when they can grind out the result with plenty to spare, despite not being on top of their game.
The faith shown by their fans was picked up on by those in the City dugout.
Assistant boss Steve Parkin said: "Sometimes when you win a game 5-1 at home, people turn up next time and expect the same whoever you're
playing.
"The crowd did get a little bit frustrated in the latter part of the first half. But they were also intelligent enough to know we have got
players on the pitch who are capable of creating things and scoring goals.
"We've worked long and hard to try and make sure the home form is something we can be proud of and our fans can enjoy.
"We certainly put the building blocks in place last season. We probably drew a few too many but in general, from November onwards, teams found it
very difficult to pick up points here and thankfully we've continued that this season."
With a three-week gap since that last appearance at the Coral Windows Stadium, City were due another win. Back-to-back home games offered the
opportunity to gatecrash the leading pack once again.
Will Atkinson was unlucky to miss out after his busy efforts as the extra midfielder at Accrington but he was the inevitable fall guy when Alan
Connell was brought in to partner James Hanson . Having dabbled with a change of formation the previous week, City resorted to the default 4-4-2.
Barnet predictably came to 'park the bus' and the onus was on the two wingers to get round them down the flanks. For 45 minutes, that never
happened.
Kyel Reid, having an off day for once, seemed too content to hit early hopeful crosses which were easily dealt with. Zavon Hines was just as
reluctant to take on the full back, which was surprising considering the joy he had the previous week.
Their caginess was out of character and frustrating. Without that threat to stretch the visitors and pull them about, too much of the play became
stodgy and cramped down the middle.
It made for a plodding first half, especially after Connell fluffed a golden chance after five minutes.
The former Swindon man almost had too much time to think about it after John Oster had blindly passed back into his path.
The ball seemed to wedge under his feet and Connell was trapped between trying to round keeper Graham Stack or chip over him. His effort did
neither and was comfortably batted away.
A goal then and it could have been another Wimbledon-style deluge. Instead, Barnet were not unduly bothered and even held an emphatic 7-1
advantage on the corner count without remotely worrying Jon McLaughlin on his first home appearance of the campaign.
City's back four kept their concentration up well but the stand-out player, once again, was Gary Jones in front of them. His capture in the
summer – which looked impressive at the time – gets better with each passing week.
Even when those around him were not at the races. The midfield dynamo was cajoling and tearing about the place with the energy of a teenager half
his age.
Parkin admitted: "Jonah just defies logic. He's 35 and he's still storming about the pitch and closing down at the end.
"He's a great role model for the rest of the squad and the younger players. He shows how much effort you have to put in to play as long as he
has."
Things had to improve after the break. The fans knew it and Phil Parkinson left his team in no doubt that the tempo needed picking up and passes
had to be crisper.
City needed only two minutes to show the lesson had been absorbed.
Jones, appropriately, could claim the assist with the free-kick floated towards the six-yard box. Andrew Davies flicked on, fellow centre half
Luke Oliver instinctively kept it alive and Hanson had the simple task of burying his fourth goal so far.
Barnet, their marking shot to pieces, visibly crumbled as their fifth defeat in six became a reality. A second City goal eight minutes on pretty
much made sure.
Reid whipped in a low cross that Stack could not cling on to and Connell was 'Johnny on the spot' to stab the rebound past him. The early miss
had been forgotten and three more points were in the bag.
Barnet's back four went AWOL again from City's next forward foray. Jones was the set-piece provider for the second time and Davies was lurking
unattended beyond the far post to beat Stack.
The remaining half hour was simply a case of City closing the game down. All thoughts could turn to the next challenge against Morecambe and
arch-nemesis Kevin Ellison.
Home and hosed again, it's got a nice ring to it.
Attendance: 9,566
===========================
City duo Jon McLaughlin and Gary Jones have been rewarded for their involvement in the club's weekend win against Barnet by being named in the
latest Football League Team of the Week for npower League 2.
McLaughlin kept his first clean sheet of the season in the Valley Parade encounter, while Jones, who picked up the man of the match award, helped
to set up two of the Bantams' three goals in the fixture.
Each week the Official Football League website release a "Team of the Week" for each of the three divisions - Championship, League 1 and League
2.
Produced by the Press Association, the eleven players in the selected team are chosen for their sparkling performances and have been judged to
have made the biggest impact over the previous weekend.
To see the full Team of the Week for League 2 see
http://www.football-league.co.uk/staticFiles/7a/b8/0,,10794~178298,00.pdf
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk//news/article/bobby-campbell-event-372852.aspx?pageView=full
Bobby Campbell event
Everybody who knows or has heard of Bobby Campbell has a story to tell......
City supporter group, Friends of Bradford City (FoBCFC), are hosting a 'This Is Your Life…' type evening featuring former City striker Bobby
Campbell and special guests.
This will take place on Wednesday 10th October in the Bantams Bar at the Coral Windows Stadium to co-inside with the launch of the book "Bobby
Campbell – They don't make them like him anymore" written by Paul Firth.
Entrance to the event is only available through the Friends of Bradford City web site – www.friendsofbcfc.co.uk or at the FoBCFC portakabin on
match-days.
Places at the event can be obtained by either purchasing the book at £12.00 which includes free entrance or £2.00 will gain you entrance only.
Only limited places remain – so please book to avoid disappointment.
Subscribers to the book should contact either Paul Firth or John Dewhirst directly to obtain reversed entrance to this event.
===========================
Morecambe on their travels
Up to now. Morcambe's Home record. W/0 D/1 L/2 gd/3-9 Away W/2 D/1 L/0. gd/ 6-0 Very strange start to the season.
===========================
Bradford City revelling in home comforts
7:30am Tuesday 18th September 2012
By Simon Parker
City are looking to record their best start to a home league campaign for over 50 years tonight.
Phil Parkinson's men aim to make it four wins on the bounce at the Coral Windows Stadium against Morecambe, who are unbeaten on their travels.
Incredibly, the last time that City kicked off a season that well at Valley Parade was way back in 1957 when they won the first five home games in Division Three North.
Two of the three goals that sunk Barnet on Saturday were set up by Gary Jones free-kicks and Parkinson believes the skipper has already become a huge influence on the early form.
The Bantams chief said: "We've got strong headers of the ball and people who want to get after it. But it's very difficult to make your runs if the delivery is unreliable.
"Gary is always out there practising and he's got quality. At 35, his age is irrelevant and his fitness levels are extraordinary.
"I always look at Scott Parker at Tottenham. He's infectious the way he plays and Gary has got that in his game.
"He's a very good role model and that's so important at any club with the younger players.
"To look at someone like him and how he looks after himself as a professional and prepares for each game is a great example.
"That's one of the reasons we brought him here and at the moment we're enjoying working with him."
Morecambe snatched a stoppage-time draw on their last visit and have not conceded a goal in three away games this season. Parkinson also watched them win at Accrington in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy last week.
"I was very impressed and it's no surprise they've done well on their travels with the way they set up," he said.
"They sit in there and look to hit you on the break and we've got to be ready for that.
"We'll respect them a lot because of their away form but we also know where we can be successful against them on the pitch. Football is about keeping on doing the right things.
"I was pleased with the patience we showed against Barnet. Those games are sometimes the hardest when you're expected to win.
"Barnet made it very difficult for us in the first half but we persevered, stuck at our jobs and defended right.
"Sometimes when teams sit deep, you have to get two or three passes in and might even have to go backwards to bring them out. Then you find those gaps which the likes of Zavon Hines and Alan Connell can exploit."
City will make a late check on Hines, who has been complaining of cramp. If the winger does not make it, Parkinson will look to either Will Atkinson or Morecambe old boy Garry Thompson.
But Nahki Wells has felt no ill-effects from his troublesome hip after coming on for Connell for the last 20 minutes.
The Bermudian trained yesterday without a problem and the steroid injection planned for him for tomorrow is likely to be put on hold.
Bradford C (0) 3 Hanson 47, Connell 55, Davies 57.
Barnet (0) 0
Att: 9,566
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Bradford C - Barnet
Possession: 57 - 43%
Shots on target: 4 - 2
Shots off target: 6 - 4
Fouls: 14 - 12
Corners: 3 - 8
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 23. Rory McArdle, 6. Luke Oliver, 5. Andrew
Davies, 3. James Meredith, 20. Zavon Hines, 24. Nathan Doyle 82', 18. Gary
Jones, 7. Kyel Reid 81', 9. James Hanson, 17. Alan Connell 70'.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke, 2. Stephen Darby, 4. Ricky Ravenhill, 11. Garry
Thompson 81', 14. Will Atkinson 82', 16. Carl McHugh, 21. Nahki Wells 70'.
BARNET: 29. Graham Stack, 2. Barry Fuller, 30. David Stephens, 32. Krystian
Pearce, 3. Jordan Brown, 25. Jamal Lowe 77', 31. John Oster 66', 4. Clovis
Kamdjo, 20. Curtis Weston, 11. Ricky Holmes, 10. Jon Nurse.
SUBS: 1. Liam O'Brien, 5. Jonathan Fortune, 6. Jack Saville, 7. Oliver Lee,
12. Luke Gambin 66', 14. Ahmed Abdulla, 17. Anthony Edgar 77'.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City maintained their 100 per cent home record with a second-half salvo to
sink bottom club Barnet this afternoon.
Three goals in a ten-minute burst straight after the restart from James
Hanson , Alan Connell and Andrew Davies sealed a comfortable three points.
It was not vintage stuff from Phil Parkinson's men but they still ran out
easy winners against a side who look consigned to another long battle
against the drop.
Connell's equaliser at Accrington had earned him promotion to the starting
line-up - and he should have had a goal inside five minutes.
A blind back pass by John Oster put Connell clear on the keeper but his shot
was a poor one and Graham Stack blocked.
It was to prove a costly miss as City struggled to breakdown a resolute
opposition. Nathan Doyle drove wide from 30 yards but otherwise there was
little pressure on Stack's goal.
Barnet, in fact, forced seven corners before the break without creating
anything other than a soft looping header by John Nurse.
City needed to step it up for the second half and did within two minutes.
Gary Jones floated a free-kick into the six-yard box and Luke Oliver knocked
it back for Hanson to head home from close range.
That opened the floodgates and Connell soon made amends for his earlier
chance, converting the rebound after Stack could only parry Kyel Reid's
well-struck low cross.
And Davies made it three goals in the space of ten minutes when he nodded
home at the far post from another Jones set-piece.
Jordan Brown just prevented Hanson from making it four from a dangerous
cross by Connell and the big striker nodded over from a corner.
But the result was already in the bag and City can look forward to Tuesday's
visit from Morecambe to keep their impressive home form going.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Fans' faith rewarded by 'routine' Bradford City victory
6:40am Monday 17th September 2012
By Simon Parker
City 3, Barnet 0
The noise, or rather lack of it, as the half-time whistle sounded was telling.
It showed how far this City team – and the public perception of them – has already come.
There were no audible boos; few, if any catcalls; just a polite smattering of applause.
Yes, the first 45 minutes had not been great. Far from it against opponents who had not mustered a single goal, let alone point, on their
travels.
But there was an underlying conviction that the supporters knew City would improve significantly for the second period. They knew the team would
get the job done.
There was no need for dissent or name-calling. Just a mature reaction in the knowledge that their patience would be rewarded – as was the case
within 12 minutes of the restart.
How often have we been able to describe a 3-0 City win at Valley Parade as "routine"? Answers to that one on a postcard please!
The third home victory of this fledgling campaign will not stick around in the memory like that Wimbledon rout. But that's the proof of a good
side when they can grind out the result with plenty to spare, despite not being on top of their game.
The faith shown by their fans was picked up on by those in the City dugout.
Assistant boss Steve Parkin said: "Sometimes when you win a game 5-1 at home, people turn up next time and expect the same whoever you're
playing.
"The crowd did get a little bit frustrated in the latter part of the first half. But they were also intelligent enough to know we have got
players on the pitch who are capable of creating things and scoring goals.
"We've worked long and hard to try and make sure the home form is something we can be proud of and our fans can enjoy.
"We certainly put the building blocks in place last season. We probably drew a few too many but in general, from November onwards, teams found it
very difficult to pick up points here and thankfully we've continued that this season."
With a three-week gap since that last appearance at the Coral Windows Stadium, City were due another win. Back-to-back home games offered the
opportunity to gatecrash the leading pack once again.
Will Atkinson was unlucky to miss out after his busy efforts as the extra midfielder at Accrington but he was the inevitable fall guy when Alan
Connell was brought in to partner James Hanson . Having dabbled with a change of formation the previous week, City resorted to the default 4-4-2.
Barnet predictably came to 'park the bus' and the onus was on the two wingers to get round them down the flanks. For 45 minutes, that never
happened.
Kyel Reid, having an off day for once, seemed too content to hit early hopeful crosses which were easily dealt with. Zavon Hines was just as
reluctant to take on the full back, which was surprising considering the joy he had the previous week.
Their caginess was out of character and frustrating. Without that threat to stretch the visitors and pull them about, too much of the play became
stodgy and cramped down the middle.
It made for a plodding first half, especially after Connell fluffed a golden chance after five minutes.
The former Swindon man almost had too much time to think about it after John Oster had blindly passed back into his path.
The ball seemed to wedge under his feet and Connell was trapped between trying to round keeper Graham Stack or chip over him. His effort did
neither and was comfortably batted away.
A goal then and it could have been another Wimbledon-style deluge. Instead, Barnet were not unduly bothered and even held an emphatic 7-1
advantage on the corner count without remotely worrying Jon McLaughlin on his first home appearance of the campaign.
City's back four kept their concentration up well but the stand-out player, once again, was Gary Jones in front of them. His capture in the
summer – which looked impressive at the time – gets better with each passing week.
Even when those around him were not at the races. The midfield dynamo was cajoling and tearing about the place with the energy of a teenager half
his age.
Parkin admitted: "Jonah just defies logic. He's 35 and he's still storming about the pitch and closing down at the end.
"He's a great role model for the rest of the squad and the younger players. He shows how much effort you have to put in to play as long as he
has."
Things had to improve after the break. The fans knew it and Phil Parkinson left his team in no doubt that the tempo needed picking up and passes
had to be crisper.
City needed only two minutes to show the lesson had been absorbed.
Jones, appropriately, could claim the assist with the free-kick floated towards the six-yard box. Andrew Davies flicked on, fellow centre half
Luke Oliver instinctively kept it alive and Hanson had the simple task of burying his fourth goal so far.
Barnet, their marking shot to pieces, visibly crumbled as their fifth defeat in six became a reality. A second City goal eight minutes on pretty
much made sure.
Reid whipped in a low cross that Stack could not cling on to and Connell was 'Johnny on the spot' to stab the rebound past him. The early miss
had been forgotten and three more points were in the bag.
Barnet's back four went AWOL again from City's next forward foray. Jones was the set-piece provider for the second time and Davies was lurking
unattended beyond the far post to beat Stack.
The remaining half hour was simply a case of City closing the game down. All thoughts could turn to the next challenge against Morecambe and
arch-nemesis Kevin Ellison.
Home and hosed again, it's got a nice ring to it.
Attendance: 9,566
===========================
City duo Jon McLaughlin and Gary Jones have been rewarded for their involvement in the club's weekend win against Barnet by being named in the
latest Football League Team of the Week for npower League 2.
McLaughlin kept his first clean sheet of the season in the Valley Parade encounter, while Jones, who picked up the man of the match award, helped
to set up two of the Bantams' three goals in the fixture.
Each week the Official Football League website release a "Team of the Week" for each of the three divisions - Championship, League 1 and League
2.
Produced by the Press Association, the eleven players in the selected team are chosen for their sparkling performances and have been judged to
have made the biggest impact over the previous weekend.
To see the full Team of the Week for League 2 see
http://www.football-league.co.uk/staticFiles/7a/b8/0,,10794~178298,00.pdf
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk//news/article/bobby-campbell-event-372852.aspx?pageView=full
Bobby Campbell event
Everybody who knows or has heard of Bobby Campbell has a story to tell......
City supporter group, Friends of Bradford City (FoBCFC), are hosting a 'This Is Your Life…' type evening featuring former City striker Bobby
Campbell and special guests.
This will take place on Wednesday 10th October in the Bantams Bar at the Coral Windows Stadium to co-inside with the launch of the book "Bobby
Campbell – They don't make them like him anymore" written by Paul Firth.
Entrance to the event is only available through the Friends of Bradford City web site – www.friendsofbcfc.co.uk or at the FoBCFC portakabin on
match-days.
Places at the event can be obtained by either purchasing the book at £12.00 which includes free entrance or £2.00 will gain you entrance only.
Only limited places remain – so please book to avoid disappointment.
Subscribers to the book should contact either Paul Firth or John Dewhirst directly to obtain reversed entrance to this event.
===========================
Morecambe on their travels
Up to now. Morcambe's Home record. W/0 D/1 L/2 gd/3-9 Away W/2 D/1 L/0. gd/ 6-0 Very strange start to the season.
===========================
Bradford City revelling in home comforts
7:30am Tuesday 18th September 2012
By Simon Parker
City are looking to record their best start to a home league campaign for over 50 years tonight.
Phil Parkinson's men aim to make it four wins on the bounce at the Coral Windows Stadium against Morecambe, who are unbeaten on their travels.
Incredibly, the last time that City kicked off a season that well at Valley Parade was way back in 1957 when they won the first five home games in Division Three North.
Two of the three goals that sunk Barnet on Saturday were set up by Gary Jones free-kicks and Parkinson believes the skipper has already become a huge influence on the early form.
The Bantams chief said: "We've got strong headers of the ball and people who want to get after it. But it's very difficult to make your runs if the delivery is unreliable.
"Gary is always out there practising and he's got quality. At 35, his age is irrelevant and his fitness levels are extraordinary.
"I always look at Scott Parker at Tottenham. He's infectious the way he plays and Gary has got that in his game.
"He's a very good role model and that's so important at any club with the younger players.
"To look at someone like him and how he looks after himself as a professional and prepares for each game is a great example.
"That's one of the reasons we brought him here and at the moment we're enjoying working with him."
Morecambe snatched a stoppage-time draw on their last visit and have not conceded a goal in three away games this season. Parkinson also watched them win at Accrington in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy last week.
"I was very impressed and it's no surprise they've done well on their travels with the way they set up," he said.
"They sit in there and look to hit you on the break and we've got to be ready for that.
"We'll respect them a lot because of their away form but we also know where we can be successful against them on the pitch. Football is about keeping on doing the right things.
"I was pleased with the patience we showed against Barnet. Those games are sometimes the hardest when you're expected to win.
"Barnet made it very difficult for us in the first half but we persevered, stuck at our jobs and defended right.
"Sometimes when teams sit deep, you have to get two or three passes in and might even have to go backwards to bring them out. Then you find those gaps which the likes of Zavon Hines and Alan Connell can exploit."
City will make a late check on Hines, who has been complaining of cramp. If the winger does not make it, Parkinson will look to either Will Atkinson or Morecambe old boy Garry Thompson.
But Nahki Wells has felt no ill-effects from his troublesome hip after coming on for Connell for the last 20 minutes.
The Bermudian trained yesterday without a problem and the steroid injection planned for him for tomorrow is likely to be put on hold.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
L2 D1-1 (A) Accrington Stanley Saturday September 8, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM. #bcafc
Npower League Two
Accrington (0) 1 Amond 73
Bradford C (0) 1 Connell 83
Att: 3,010
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk//news/article/accrington-first-half-highlights-360599.aspx?pageView=full
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk//news/article/accrington-second-half-highlights-360606.aspx?pageView=full
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19447860
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Accrington - Bradford C
Possession: 52 - 48%
Shots on target: 1 - 5
Shots off target: 3 - 4
Fouls: 5 - 11
Corners: 1 - 4
Ref: Trevor Kettle (Berkshire).
Yellow cards:
Accrington: Winnard (24')
Bradford C: Hanson (62')
ACCRINGTON: 25. Ian Dunbavin, 6. Dean Winnard, 2. Peter Murphy, 5. Aristote
Nsiala, 3. Michael Liddle, 4. Luke Joyce, 12. George Miller, 33. Romuald
Boco, 10. Will Hatfield 84', 24. Lee Molyneux 74', 23. Padraig Amond 85'.
SUBS: 22. Andrew Dawber, 7. Craig Lindfield 84', 8. Charlie Barnett 74', 9.
Karl Sheppard 85', 11. Aidan Chippendale, 15. Bohan Dixon, 18. Tom
Eckersley.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 2. Stephen Darby 67', 5. Andrew Davies, 6.
Luke Oliver, 3. James Meredith, 24. Nathan Doyle 77', 18. Gary Jones, 14.
Will Atkinson, 20. Zavon Hines 66', 9. James Hanson, 7. Kyel Reid.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke, 10. Ross Hannah, 11. Garry Thompson 66', 16. Carl
McHugh, 17. Alan Connell 77', 23. Rory McArdle 67', 30. Scott Brown.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
Alan Connell chose the perfect moment to break his City goal duck and rescue
a late draw at Accrington.
Connell came off the bench to level six minutes from time and earn the first
away point of the season at the third attempt.
It was also City's first goal at the Crown Ground since 2008 and ended a run
of three straight defeats on Stanley soil.
Phil Parkinson had switched to a 4-3-3 formation and the onus was on the two
wingers to work off James Hanson . That was certainly the case in a first
half when City were well on top without scoring. Kyel Reid fizzed an early
half-volley just over before Zavon Hines latched on to Hanson 's flick-on to
force Ian Dunbavin into a punching save.
Jon McLaughlin was back in the City goal and had an uncomfortable moment
from a poor backpass by Luke Oliver . But the visitors were asking the
questions and Gary Jones and Hanson combined to tee up Hines, who drove
against the far post with Dunbavin beaten.
Hanson should have broken the deadlock in the 26th minute but his hanging
header from a Hines cross was cleared off the line by Luke Joyce.
Accrington failed to muster a single shot on McLaughlin's goal in the first
half. The closest they managed was a lofted through ball from Lee Molyneux
that just eluded target Padraig Amond by the penalty spot.
George Miller shanked their first effort well wide three minutes after the
re-start but Stanley picked up their game. City did not look the same threat
as they had done before and Reid fired high over the away terrace.
Inevitably, Accrington's first shot on target broke the deadlock with 17
minutes left. Will Hatfield found room on the right wing to cross low and
Padraig Amond had a simple tap-in past McLaughlin.
Alan Connell was thrown on and nearly fashioned an equaliser after good work
in the box by Jones.
But he went one better with six minutes left. McLaughlin's long kick was
flicked on once again by Hanson and the sub latched on to it to beat
Dunbavin with a cool lob.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Connell strike Crowns end to Bradford City hoodoo
6:10am Monday 10th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Accrington 1, City 1
The Crown Ground can hardly be mentioned in the same breath as the Etihad, Stamford Bridge or Old Trafford.
But to City, Accrington's cramped home has presented a challenge every bit as daunting as Premier League visitors find the more sumptuous surroundings of Manchester City, Chelsea or United.
Short hops along the M65 usually bring slim pickings – no goals and no points, in fact, since Peter Thorne completed that ultimate smash-and-grab for Stuart McCall's side in October 2008.
The fact that there are usually more away fans than home – and there were again on Saturday – tends to count for zilch as City and their travelling army trudge back over the border with a bloodied nose.
So let's be grateful for small mercies. This point could/should have been more but it did stop the rot, although it is now eight meetings since Yorkshire did last prevail in this unlikely war of the roses.
Substitute Alan Connell rightly got the plaudits for a measured finish six minutes from time but James Hanson earned his assist with the flick-on for his fellow striker.
If Hanson earned a tenner for every time he headed the ball, he would have left Stanley a millionaire. And as a veteran of the last three grim trips there, he knew how precious some reward – if only a draw – meant for all concerned.
"This is a tough place to come, as we've seen with Bradford over the years," said Hanson. "I thought it wouldn't be our day here again after we didn't take our chances in the first half and then got punished. It was bringing back memories of losing 1-0 last year. Thankfully the lads dug in and got a well-deserved equaliser.
"I'm pleased for the fans because the following was magnificent. They deserved a good performance for turning out like that again after spending their money at Rotherham to see us get beaten 4-0.
"Three-quarters of the ground were Bradford fans and it felt like a home game at times. I'm just a bit gutted we couldn't get a winner for them."
Connell has even more knowledge of the Accrington experience. This was his fifth trip, all with different clubs, and he had won the last two with Bournemouth and Swindon.
He was impressed with the City team's mindset after the drubbing at the New York Stadium the previous week.
Connell said: "For people like Zavon Hines, who've always played in the Premier League or Championship, it must be a bit of a culture shock. But I thought he was excellent and handled that really well.
"I'm used to coming to some grounds like this but it's 11 v 11 on the pitch and we applied ourselves really well as a team. A point away is never a bad result."
Connell must have felt a bit miffed not to get the starting nod when Nahki Wells was ruled out with hip trouble. Instead, Phil Parkinson opted to use Hanson as the lone targetman with the wingers playing off him in a 4-3-3 line-up.
The thinking behind the switch in formation was to deny Accrington the space in midfield to pass round City. He had noted how Cheltenham had fallen into that trap the previous game, with their two central men finding themselves outnumbered.
So Will Atkinson was added to the engine room and responded with his best performance for the club. Full of energy, he buzzed around to fill holes and helped stop the home midfield finding any flow.
Parkinson's boldest selection was the change of goalkeeper. Although Matt Duke could only be fingered for the last of Rotherham's four goals, the manager's "gut instinct" told him to go with Jon McLaughlin after a solid performance in a reserve friendly at Sheffield Wednesday.
Other than an uncomfortable moment with a lively backpass from Luke Oliver , McLaughlin had nothing to do in a first half that City dominated without finding that killer touch.
Hines, who looked very good for an hour before running out of steam, went the closest when he hit the post on the break after being set up by Hanson and Gary Jones.
Stanley skipper Luke Joyce also cleared off the line from Hanson, although the striker's header was aiming for Atkinson at the far post rather than going for goal.
The home side could not get into it and boss Paul Cook had almost lost his voice by the interval.
He changed tack at the break and Accrington went more direct, pumping long balls at Rommy Boco on the left wing. City, meanwhile, lost their way and began to concede ground without coming under serious attack.
In fact, the home side had only one shot on target all game – their goal after 73 minutes. Will Hatfield was played in behind James Meredith and his low cross was swept in by Padraig Amond.
Once again, City were contemplating the miserable prospect of leaving empty-handed despite a display that Parkinson felt was "light years" better than the previous week.
He summoned Connell from the bench and went with two up top – or four in effect, with Kyel Reid and Garry Thompson, the replacement for Hines, on either flank.
Connell, desperate to make his mark at the club, grabbed the chance with a calculated strike within seven minutes of joining the fray.
It was classic route one in the build-up as McLaughlin's thump forward was inevitably helped on by the bonce of Hanson.
But there was nothing basic about the finish as the ball sat up perfectly for Connell to lob Ian Dunbavin with the outside of his boot.
The away end – and sides – were ecstatic as the scorer threw himself on the ground right in front of them. For many of those losing their heads on the terrace, this was an outpouring of four years of frustration.
There was still time for it to get even better. Sensing blood, City poured forward in search of a second and Connell nearly had it, landing the ball on top of the net from a Jones free-kick.
Another ten minutes and maybe that late flurry would have paid off. Instead, City had to settle for a share of the spoils – but at least they are off the mark on the road. And given the way matches at Accrington usually pan out, a point should not be sniffed at.
Parkinson said: "I'm delighted with the way we came back after conceding the goal. When you get beaten like we did last week, it can be a setback in confidence so early in the season.
"I thought the response was outstanding and I'm delighted for Alan. It's so important for strikers that they get off and running and he took his goal really well. He's got class, there's no doubt about that."
===========================
Bradford City ticket notice
10:00am Wednesday 12th September 2012
City fans attending the Capital One Cup third-round tie with Burton are being asked to keep their ticket stubs from the game.
With the winner on September 25 going through to the last 16, there is a strong chance they will be drawn against top-flight opposition.
In case of limited tickets for an away game at a Premier League side, fans with stubs from the Burton match would get priority if City go through.
===========================
Connell leveller stakes claim for Bradford City starting berth
7:20am Monday 10th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Alan Connell believes his City equaliser can be the first goal of many – but has promised to bide his time for a proper chance.
Connell came off the bench to earn a point at Accrington, opening his scoring account in style with a sublime lob.
He had only been on the pitch for seven minutes – and strengthened his case for a full game against Barnet next weekend.
The former Swindon top scorer has started only once in the league so far. Even though Nahki Wells was ruled out with a hip injury, he was named a substitute again on Saturday as Phil Parkinson changed City's formation.
But Connell, who spent most of last season in an impact role under Paulo Di Canio, insists he will abide by the manager's wishes.
"Of course I want to play more minutes but it's up to me to be playing well to do that," he said.
"We changed shape and went one up front and the gaffer thought James Hanson suited that best. We've got a good squad and everybody accepts the decisions.
"You've got to respond in the right way and show how much you want to play. I'll always do my best for the club whenever called upon and hopefully the goal was a nice reminder."
Parkinson, who also ditched goalkeeper Matt Duke for Jon McLaughlin , admitted it has been tough for the players on the sidelines.
The City chief said: "We've got a few. Ross Hannah is unlucky not to have been in first-team action so far because his pre-season form was good and he was terrific in the two reserve games we've had.
"Thommo (Garry Thompson) ideally wants to play up front, challenging Hanson for that position, and it's good to have that competition. You've got to let your football do the talking as Alan did."
Connell, who had also netted for the reserves at Sheffield Wednesday in midweek, added: "We're a few games into the season now so it was good to get that first goal.
"Most importantly, it was a goal that meant something to the team and helped get us a point.
"It was lovely to score in front of our fans. We had great support at Rotherham last week and we disappointed them.
"So to score like that, when there were so many there, was great and hopefully I can get many more this season.
"I scored a similar one for Grimsby a couple of years ago. It dropped to me nicely and as soon as it left my foot, I knew it was in.
"I thought we kicked on well after a dodgy spell just after half-time and looked like scoring a winner. Our fitness showed and was good at the end."
===========================
Evans given six-game ban
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1155511?cc=5901
Rotherham United manager Steve Evans has been given a six-match stadium ban and fined £3,000 by the Football Association.
Evans was found guilty of "using abusive and insulting words and behaviour towards a participant in or around the dressing room area'' when in charge of Crawley following a heated League Two clash at Bradford on March 27.
Five players were sent off after a post-match brawl - Andrew Davies, Luke Oliver and goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin for Bradford with Crawley duo Pablo Mills and Claude Davis also seeing red.
An FA statement read: "Following an Independent Regulatory Commission held on Wednesday 5 September 2012, Rotherham United manager Steve Evans has been given a six-match stadium ban and fined £3000.
"Mr Evans was charged with using abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards a participant in or around the dressing room area at the end of the Bradford City versus Crawley Town Football League Two fixture on 27 March 2012.
"It was further alleged that the breach included a reference to gender, a breach of FA Rule E3(2). Mr Evans denied the charge and requested a personal hearing.
"The Commission found that Mr Evans had used abusive and insulting words and behaviour towards a participant in or around the dressing room area at the end of the fixture which did include a reference to gender. The Commission did not find that Mr Evans had used indecent words or behaviour.
"Mr Evans has informed The Football Association that he does not wish to appeal the decision and therefore the sanction is now imposed with immediate effect.
"The stadium ban will prevent Mr Evans from attending the ground at which Rotherham United's first team are playing at any time during a match day.''
Evans expressed his disappointment at the decision but added in a statement: "For the good of Rotherham United I accept the verdict and will move on with no further comment.''
A club statement read: "Rotherham United acknowledge the decision of the FA today and will work closely with Steve Evans to ensure the penalty imposed does not affect our objectives for this season.
"The club wishes to stress that there will be no further comment on this matter.''
Accrington (0) 1 Amond 73
Bradford C (0) 1 Connell 83
Att: 3,010
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===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk//news/article/accrington-first-half-highlights-360599.aspx?pageView=full
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk//news/article/accrington-second-half-highlights-360606.aspx?pageView=full
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19447860
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Accrington - Bradford C
Possession: 52 - 48%
Shots on target: 1 - 5
Shots off target: 3 - 4
Fouls: 5 - 11
Corners: 1 - 4
Ref: Trevor Kettle (Berkshire).
Yellow cards:
Accrington: Winnard (24')
Bradford C: Hanson (62')
ACCRINGTON: 25. Ian Dunbavin, 6. Dean Winnard, 2. Peter Murphy, 5. Aristote
Nsiala, 3. Michael Liddle, 4. Luke Joyce, 12. George Miller, 33. Romuald
Boco, 10. Will Hatfield 84', 24. Lee Molyneux 74', 23. Padraig Amond 85'.
SUBS: 22. Andrew Dawber, 7. Craig Lindfield 84', 8. Charlie Barnett 74', 9.
Karl Sheppard 85', 11. Aidan Chippendale, 15. Bohan Dixon, 18. Tom
Eckersley.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 2. Stephen Darby 67', 5. Andrew Davies, 6.
Luke Oliver, 3. James Meredith, 24. Nathan Doyle 77', 18. Gary Jones, 14.
Will Atkinson, 20. Zavon Hines 66', 9. James Hanson, 7. Kyel Reid.
SUBS: 12. Matt Duke, 10. Ross Hannah, 11. Garry Thompson 66', 16. Carl
McHugh, 17. Alan Connell 77', 23. Rory McArdle 67', 30. Scott Brown.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
Alan Connell chose the perfect moment to break his City goal duck and rescue
a late draw at Accrington.
Connell came off the bench to level six minutes from time and earn the first
away point of the season at the third attempt.
It was also City's first goal at the Crown Ground since 2008 and ended a run
of three straight defeats on Stanley soil.
Phil Parkinson had switched to a 4-3-3 formation and the onus was on the two
wingers to work off James Hanson . That was certainly the case in a first
half when City were well on top without scoring. Kyel Reid fizzed an early
half-volley just over before Zavon Hines latched on to Hanson 's flick-on to
force Ian Dunbavin into a punching save.
Jon McLaughlin was back in the City goal and had an uncomfortable moment
from a poor backpass by Luke Oliver . But the visitors were asking the
questions and Gary Jones and Hanson combined to tee up Hines, who drove
against the far post with Dunbavin beaten.
Hanson should have broken the deadlock in the 26th minute but his hanging
header from a Hines cross was cleared off the line by Luke Joyce.
Accrington failed to muster a single shot on McLaughlin's goal in the first
half. The closest they managed was a lofted through ball from Lee Molyneux
that just eluded target Padraig Amond by the penalty spot.
George Miller shanked their first effort well wide three minutes after the
re-start but Stanley picked up their game. City did not look the same threat
as they had done before and Reid fired high over the away terrace.
Inevitably, Accrington's first shot on target broke the deadlock with 17
minutes left. Will Hatfield found room on the right wing to cross low and
Padraig Amond had a simple tap-in past McLaughlin.
Alan Connell was thrown on and nearly fashioned an equaliser after good work
in the box by Jones.
But he went one better with six minutes left. McLaughlin's long kick was
flicked on once again by Hanson and the sub latched on to it to beat
Dunbavin with a cool lob.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Connell strike Crowns end to Bradford City hoodoo
6:10am Monday 10th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Accrington 1, City 1
The Crown Ground can hardly be mentioned in the same breath as the Etihad, Stamford Bridge or Old Trafford.
But to City, Accrington's cramped home has presented a challenge every bit as daunting as Premier League visitors find the more sumptuous surroundings of Manchester City, Chelsea or United.
Short hops along the M65 usually bring slim pickings – no goals and no points, in fact, since Peter Thorne completed that ultimate smash-and-grab for Stuart McCall's side in October 2008.
The fact that there are usually more away fans than home – and there were again on Saturday – tends to count for zilch as City and their travelling army trudge back over the border with a bloodied nose.
So let's be grateful for small mercies. This point could/should have been more but it did stop the rot, although it is now eight meetings since Yorkshire did last prevail in this unlikely war of the roses.
Substitute Alan Connell rightly got the plaudits for a measured finish six minutes from time but James Hanson earned his assist with the flick-on for his fellow striker.
If Hanson earned a tenner for every time he headed the ball, he would have left Stanley a millionaire. And as a veteran of the last three grim trips there, he knew how precious some reward – if only a draw – meant for all concerned.
"This is a tough place to come, as we've seen with Bradford over the years," said Hanson. "I thought it wouldn't be our day here again after we didn't take our chances in the first half and then got punished. It was bringing back memories of losing 1-0 last year. Thankfully the lads dug in and got a well-deserved equaliser.
"I'm pleased for the fans because the following was magnificent. They deserved a good performance for turning out like that again after spending their money at Rotherham to see us get beaten 4-0.
"Three-quarters of the ground were Bradford fans and it felt like a home game at times. I'm just a bit gutted we couldn't get a winner for them."
Connell has even more knowledge of the Accrington experience. This was his fifth trip, all with different clubs, and he had won the last two with Bournemouth and Swindon.
He was impressed with the City team's mindset after the drubbing at the New York Stadium the previous week.
Connell said: "For people like Zavon Hines, who've always played in the Premier League or Championship, it must be a bit of a culture shock. But I thought he was excellent and handled that really well.
"I'm used to coming to some grounds like this but it's 11 v 11 on the pitch and we applied ourselves really well as a team. A point away is never a bad result."
Connell must have felt a bit miffed not to get the starting nod when Nahki Wells was ruled out with hip trouble. Instead, Phil Parkinson opted to use Hanson as the lone targetman with the wingers playing off him in a 4-3-3 line-up.
The thinking behind the switch in formation was to deny Accrington the space in midfield to pass round City. He had noted how Cheltenham had fallen into that trap the previous game, with their two central men finding themselves outnumbered.
So Will Atkinson was added to the engine room and responded with his best performance for the club. Full of energy, he buzzed around to fill holes and helped stop the home midfield finding any flow.
Parkinson's boldest selection was the change of goalkeeper. Although Matt Duke could only be fingered for the last of Rotherham's four goals, the manager's "gut instinct" told him to go with Jon McLaughlin after a solid performance in a reserve friendly at Sheffield Wednesday.
Other than an uncomfortable moment with a lively backpass from Luke Oliver , McLaughlin had nothing to do in a first half that City dominated without finding that killer touch.
Hines, who looked very good for an hour before running out of steam, went the closest when he hit the post on the break after being set up by Hanson and Gary Jones.
Stanley skipper Luke Joyce also cleared off the line from Hanson, although the striker's header was aiming for Atkinson at the far post rather than going for goal.
The home side could not get into it and boss Paul Cook had almost lost his voice by the interval.
He changed tack at the break and Accrington went more direct, pumping long balls at Rommy Boco on the left wing. City, meanwhile, lost their way and began to concede ground without coming under serious attack.
In fact, the home side had only one shot on target all game – their goal after 73 minutes. Will Hatfield was played in behind James Meredith and his low cross was swept in by Padraig Amond.
Once again, City were contemplating the miserable prospect of leaving empty-handed despite a display that Parkinson felt was "light years" better than the previous week.
He summoned Connell from the bench and went with two up top – or four in effect, with Kyel Reid and Garry Thompson, the replacement for Hines, on either flank.
Connell, desperate to make his mark at the club, grabbed the chance with a calculated strike within seven minutes of joining the fray.
It was classic route one in the build-up as McLaughlin's thump forward was inevitably helped on by the bonce of Hanson.
But there was nothing basic about the finish as the ball sat up perfectly for Connell to lob Ian Dunbavin with the outside of his boot.
The away end – and sides – were ecstatic as the scorer threw himself on the ground right in front of them. For many of those losing their heads on the terrace, this was an outpouring of four years of frustration.
There was still time for it to get even better. Sensing blood, City poured forward in search of a second and Connell nearly had it, landing the ball on top of the net from a Jones free-kick.
Another ten minutes and maybe that late flurry would have paid off. Instead, City had to settle for a share of the spoils – but at least they are off the mark on the road. And given the way matches at Accrington usually pan out, a point should not be sniffed at.
Parkinson said: "I'm delighted with the way we came back after conceding the goal. When you get beaten like we did last week, it can be a setback in confidence so early in the season.
"I thought the response was outstanding and I'm delighted for Alan. It's so important for strikers that they get off and running and he took his goal really well. He's got class, there's no doubt about that."
===========================
Bradford City ticket notice
10:00am Wednesday 12th September 2012
City fans attending the Capital One Cup third-round tie with Burton are being asked to keep their ticket stubs from the game.
With the winner on September 25 going through to the last 16, there is a strong chance they will be drawn against top-flight opposition.
In case of limited tickets for an away game at a Premier League side, fans with stubs from the Burton match would get priority if City go through.
===========================
Connell leveller stakes claim for Bradford City starting berth
7:20am Monday 10th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Alan Connell believes his City equaliser can be the first goal of many – but has promised to bide his time for a proper chance.
Connell came off the bench to earn a point at Accrington, opening his scoring account in style with a sublime lob.
He had only been on the pitch for seven minutes – and strengthened his case for a full game against Barnet next weekend.
The former Swindon top scorer has started only once in the league so far. Even though Nahki Wells was ruled out with a hip injury, he was named a substitute again on Saturday as Phil Parkinson changed City's formation.
But Connell, who spent most of last season in an impact role under Paulo Di Canio, insists he will abide by the manager's wishes.
"Of course I want to play more minutes but it's up to me to be playing well to do that," he said.
"We changed shape and went one up front and the gaffer thought James Hanson suited that best. We've got a good squad and everybody accepts the decisions.
"You've got to respond in the right way and show how much you want to play. I'll always do my best for the club whenever called upon and hopefully the goal was a nice reminder."
Parkinson, who also ditched goalkeeper Matt Duke for Jon McLaughlin , admitted it has been tough for the players on the sidelines.
The City chief said: "We've got a few. Ross Hannah is unlucky not to have been in first-team action so far because his pre-season form was good and he was terrific in the two reserve games we've had.
"Thommo (Garry Thompson) ideally wants to play up front, challenging Hanson for that position, and it's good to have that competition. You've got to let your football do the talking as Alan did."
Connell, who had also netted for the reserves at Sheffield Wednesday in midweek, added: "We're a few games into the season now so it was good to get that first goal.
"Most importantly, it was a goal that meant something to the team and helped get us a point.
"It was lovely to score in front of our fans. We had great support at Rotherham last week and we disappointed them.
"So to score like that, when there were so many there, was great and hopefully I can get many more this season.
"I scored a similar one for Grimsby a couple of years ago. It dropped to me nicely and as soon as it left my foot, I knew it was in.
"I thought we kicked on well after a dodgy spell just after half-time and looked like scoring a winner. Our fitness showed and was good at the end."
===========================
Evans given six-game ban
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1155511?cc=5901
Rotherham United manager Steve Evans has been given a six-match stadium ban and fined £3,000 by the Football Association.
Evans was found guilty of "using abusive and insulting words and behaviour towards a participant in or around the dressing room area'' when in charge of Crawley following a heated League Two clash at Bradford on March 27.
Five players were sent off after a post-match brawl - Andrew Davies, Luke Oliver and goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin for Bradford with Crawley duo Pablo Mills and Claude Davis also seeing red.
An FA statement read: "Following an Independent Regulatory Commission held on Wednesday 5 September 2012, Rotherham United manager Steve Evans has been given a six-match stadium ban and fined £3000.
"Mr Evans was charged with using abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards a participant in or around the dressing room area at the end of the Bradford City versus Crawley Town Football League Two fixture on 27 March 2012.
"It was further alleged that the breach included a reference to gender, a breach of FA Rule E3(2). Mr Evans denied the charge and requested a personal hearing.
"The Commission found that Mr Evans had used abusive and insulting words and behaviour towards a participant in or around the dressing room area at the end of the fixture which did include a reference to gender. The Commission did not find that Mr Evans had used indecent words or behaviour.
"Mr Evans has informed The Football Association that he does not wish to appeal the decision and therefore the sanction is now imposed with immediate effect.
"The stadium ban will prevent Mr Evans from attending the ground at which Rotherham United's first team are playing at any time during a match day.''
Evans expressed his disappointment at the decision but added in a statement: "For the good of Rotherham United I accept the verdict and will move on with no further comment.''
A club statement read: "Rotherham United acknowledge the decision of the FA today and will work closely with Steve Evans to ensure the penalty imposed does not affect our objectives for this season.
"The club wishes to stress that there will be no further comment on this matter.''
Friday, September 07, 2012
L2 L0-4 (A) Rotherham Saturday September 1, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM. #bcafc
NPower League Two
Rotherham (3) 4 O'Connor 1, Evans 24, 86, Pringle 34
Bradford C (0) 0
Att: 11,199
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Rotherham - Bradford C
Possession: 50 - 50%
Shots on target: 6 - 2
Shots off target: 2 - 6
Fouls: 10 - 18
Corners: 5 - 4
Ref: Mark Brown (East Yorkshire)
Yellow cards:
Rotherham: Evans 54'.
Bradford C: Doyle 33', McArdle 41', Hines 45+2'
ROTHERHAM: 01 Shearer, 03 Wilson, 05 Sharps, 04 Arnason, 10 O'Connor (Taylor
- 84'), 11 Evans, 14 Bradley, 15 Pringle (Ainsworth - 87'), 19 Noble, 16
Odejayi, 17 Nardiello (Revell - 76').
SUBS: 21 Warrington, 06 Mullins, 25 Denton, 07 Ainsworth, 08 Taylor, 09
Revell, 22 Agard.
BRADFORD C: 12 Duke, 03 Meredith, 05 Davies, 06 Oliver, 23 McArdle, 07 Reid,
18 Jones, 24 Doyle (Thompson - 70'), 09 Hanson, 20 Hines (Atkinson - 46'),
21 Wells (Connell - 75').
SUBS: 01 McLaughlin, 02 Darby, 16 McHugh, 11 Thompson, 14 Atkinson, 10
Hannah, 17 Connell.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
For the second week running, a City league game was settled by half-time.
But the boot was very much on the other foot this time as Rotherham pocketed
the points with three goals in the first 35 minutes. They added a fourth in
the closing stages but the contest had been settled.
And to add salt to the wounds of the 2,000 travelling fans, two of those
goals came from former Bantam Gareth Evans .
Phil Parkinson's side arrived at the New York Stadium with confidence high
after three straight wins.
But they paid a heavy price for not closing down and giving Rotherham far
too much room in the first half.
City made the worst possible start as Rotherham grabbed the lead inside the
second minute. Michael O'Connor had time and space 30 yards out and his shot
flew past Matt Duke's right hand.
The visitors shook off the early blow to respond with some good pressure and
took the game to the Millers, looking to use Kyel Reid and Zavon Hines on
the flanks. Luke Oliver 's shot was saved and Nahki Wells drove over from a
James Hanson flick-on before they were further rocked by a second Rotherham
goal after 24 minutes.
Evans fired home against his old club and then celebrated in front of the
away end, jumping and punching the air to rub it in to the mass of
travelling fans.
Reid almost embarrassed Scott Shearer with a cross from a short corner that
the Rotherham keeper just managed to bundle clear. But City were far too
open at the other end and Kari Arnason headed wide from the home side's
first corner.
But a third Rotherham goal ten minutes before the break left City with a
mountain to climb. Ben Pringle picked up a loose ball in midfield, surged
into space and beat Duke via the post.
Wells thought he had clawed one back just before the break but was ruled
offside after Shearer had parried Nathan Doyle's initial effort into his
path.
Will Atkinson replaced Hines at half-time and Reid rattled an early shot not
too far wide. But Rotherham still threatened to score more and Gary Jones
nodded Kayode Odejayi's header off the line from a corner.
Evans blazed over from another good chance created by Daniel Nardiello.
Evans then almost caught City with a quick break but Oliver made a vital
lunging tackle in the box.
Alan Connell came on for Wells and created a couple of chances but there was
more danger at the other end as Duke saved from O'Connor.
And inevitably it was Evans who netted the only goal of the second half,
beating Duke at his near post with four minutes left.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Another Evans wind-up caps a miserable day for Bantams
6:50am Monday 3rd September 2012
By Simon Parker
Rotherham 4, Bradford City 0
All the pre-match hype had been dominated by the name Evans.
In the eyes of the 2,200-strong travelling army from West Yorkshire, Steve Evans was the figure they were desperate to put one over.
Ninety minutes later, they were licking their wounds back up the M1 having been mugged by his namesake.
The controversial Millers boss may remain public enemy number one in these parts for his involvement in the Crawley fracas and alleged conduct
outside the dressing room afterwards.
But former Bantam Gareth Evans won't be expecting any Christmas cards from his former employers and followers after his pirouette in front of the
heaving away end.
As we know from his two years at Valley Parade , Evans on a good day can be an athletic, dangerous striker. When his head is up, he is a threat
to any defence at this level.
He didn't have too many of those good days towards the end of his time with the club. Then came the ankle ligament injury from that no-holds-
barred tackle by Michael Flynn last season.
So, for him, Saturday was some kind of football karma. For those of a claret and amber persuasion, it was pure agony.
It has become a depressing cliché in recent seasons that the bigger the away following, the worse the performance from City. Add this one to the
list.
Alicia Keys may have called New York the concrete jungle where dreams are made of. City's first jaunt to Rotherham's tidy new home quickly
unfolded into a nightmare with a goal from the home side's first attack.
The impressive discipline and well-drilled shape from the early games had been left on the team bus. City were wide open from the start, inviting
the Millers to find space and have a go – they filled their boots.
Few fans quibbled with Phil Parkinson's decision to stick with the same 11 that had destroyed Wimbledon. Play both wingers, attack the opposition
and let them worry about the consequences.
Except this was no Wimbledon ripe for the slaughter but a pumped-up Millers side still buzzing on adrenaline from their new surroundings and, no
doubt, wound up to the extreme by their gaffer.
Evans senior was, to be fair, more restrained than usual. There was the odd moan at the fourth official, the pumped fists to the home fans and a
Bantam-bating keepy-uppy demonstration before a late throw-in but generally he left assistant Paul Raynor to do all the gesticulating in the
technical area.
Both managers did keep their distance. There was still no post-match handshake with Parkinson, who had spent most of the game arms tightly
folded, pacing his own zone like an expectant father.
He had expected a lot better than this. While admitting that his team selection had been too open, he was right to question the laissez-faire
attitude of players who had done such a good job on shutting down Fleetwood, another fancied opponent, 11 days earlier.
He said: "We can't afford to take our eye off the ball as an individual player or as a team.
"It's a good lesson for us. We've had a good couple of wins and there has been a lot of positive energy around the club but this shows we've got
a lot of work to do.
"We had some great moments in the first half but we didn't produce our final pass in the last third and they did. It was a case of 'you attack,
we attack' but when they did they scored."
Rotherham's opening strike from Michael O'Connor was a belter. But the midfielder was given so much space to take aim – it was to be a recurring
theme.
City did respond to that early blow and for 20 minutes looked the most likely team to score next. Kyel Reid was a threat on the left flank and
James Hanson had plenty of joy in his aerial battle with Ian Sharps.
But Nahki Wells struggled alongside him and for all the build-up play, there was nothing incisive to really trouble Scott Shearer in the home
goal.
Inevitably, Rotherham showed how it should be done midway through the half. City failed to deal with a cross, which dropped to the unmarked
Evans, and his shot into the ground went through Duke.
Cue the madcap individual celebration, fury in the away end, and the feeling of inevitability that this was going to be a very bad day at the
office.
City had to regroup to see it through to half-time. Instead they shipped a third to the impressive Ben Pringle. His run and shot, via the inside
of the post, was excellent but again questions had to be asked about the lack of closing down.
Nathan Doyle, who looked a yard off the pace throughout, was too easily beaten in a challenge by Kayode Odejayi to allow Pringle to scamper away
unhindered with the loose ball.
Parkinson tightened up at the break and sacrificed Zavon Hines for Will Atkinson but the damage had been done by the 35th minute.
The second half was better but Rotherham still possessed that much sharper edge in attack. Gary Jones, City's best performer, headed off the line
and Duke made a couple of saves to keep the scoreline in some kind of proportion.
City improved marginally with the addition of Alan Connell for Wells, a swap you expect we will see from the start at Accrington in the next
game. But Rotherham – and that "other" Evans – had the last say with a drive that beat Duke at his near post.
Parkinson called it a "step back but only a step back". The optimism and growing belief from the previous games should not be blown away by one
awful result.
City's balloon will not be burst like all those that referee Mark Brown twice halted play to pop. They have a free week now to right those wrongs
in preparation for the uncompromising surrounds of the Crown Ground.
You can be sure it will be crammed full of away fans again. The display they witness will prove if this lesson has been properly digested.
===========================
Drop your guard and you'll drop points in this league, says Bantams boss
7:00am Tuesday 4th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson insists City's thrashing at Rotherham spelled out just how unforgiving League Two will be.
The squad face a video session in training this week to remind them exactly where they fell apart in Saturday's one-sided Yorkshire derby.
Parkinson's side face another away trip next at Accrington, who have won three of their first four games, and the City chief wants to make sure
there is no repeat of the lackadaisical display from the New York Stadium.
Parkinson felt the 4-0 loss to the bookies' favourites – coming on the back of three straight wins – underlined the size of the task if they are
going to mount a much-anticipated promotion challenge.
He said: "It's a very competitive division, more so than ever this year. We've got a decent side and a decent squad but what is clearly evident
already is that no team is much better than anyone else.
"There is no club that stands out. If you drop down ten per cent and the other team are on their game, you will get beaten.
"It's not like you're Manchester City and can afford to be below that level and still have that quality to fall back on. Their star players will
still produce something even when the team are not playing well.
"We've had three really good games leading up to this one and it was a real wake-up call. But if you aren't right at the races in all
departments, you won't win a football game."
Parkinson will not be too harsh on his players for one bad day, given their previous form against Fleetwood, Wimbledon and Watford in the Capital
One Cup. But there were too many areas where City came up short in the Yorkshire derby – errors that will be illustrated on the TV screen.
He added: "I've had to watch the video and I'll make sure they see exactly where we did things wrong. The video doesn't lie.
"They were great strikes from Rotherham but equally we've got to be better than that.
"Look at the previous three games, Fleetwood in particular, and the way we went about our jobs in terms of taking responsibility on the pitch was
top class. But we didn't get anywhere near those standards."
Parkinson's claims about the tight nature of the division are backed up by Accrington's last two results, a stunning 3-0 win at last season's
play-off finalists Cheltenham on Saturday having lost by the same score at home to Exeter a week earlier.
He said: "We know it's going to be tough again because Accrington is a really difficult place to go. I'm concentrating on making sure we are
properly prepared to produce a performance of discipline and character."
===========================
Evans defends goal celebration after incensing Bantams fans
7:30am Monday 3rd September 2012
By Simon Parker
Gareth Evans revealed his taunting goal celebration which incensed the City fans was payback for getting crocked at Valley Parade last season.
The Bantams were today dusting themselves off from a 4-0 thumping at the New York Stadium in front of 2,200 travelling supporters.
Evans scored twice against his old club – and marked the first by leaping in the air right beneath the away end.
There were unconfirmed reports that the police were considering talking to Rotherham about his actions, which provoked a livid response from the
away crowd.
But for Evans, it was sweet revenge after he was forced off injured the last time he faced City following a crunching tackle from Michael Flynn .
Evans, who was released by City 16 months ago, said: "The (first) goal did mean a lot to me. I don't really want to say too much but, as everyone
knows, it was my old club and I had a bad time in my second year there.
"To score was enjoyable, as I felt like I was singled out when we went to Valley Parade last season. I ended up being out for three or four
months after that game.
"I only lasted about five minutes so I was keen to start (against Bradford this season). Thankfully, the gaffer gave me that opportunity and to
score made it even better.
"The goals dried up for me after I got injured at Bradford so that was all the more reason why I enjoyed the goal more."
City were behind from the first minute and skipper Gary Jones felt the performance was unacceptable for the massive following.
Jones admitted: "I apologise to our supporters for that. It wasn't good enough. In all departments, we were second best and got what we deserved.
"The first goal came as a massive shock. And after that, we ended up chasing the game for 90 minutes.
"We didn't need to do that because there was so long left. They hit us on the counter-attack twice in the first half."
Phil Parkinson had named the same side that crushed Wimbledon and played both wingers. He conceded afterwards that City had been "too open".
"I've got to take responsibility for that because I picked the team. But it was the same team that put in a very disciplined performance in a
tight game against Fleetwood, albeit at home.
"I thought we did okay up to the second goal but after that we left ourselves too vulnerable."
===========================
Bradford City plot brighter future after avoiding 'Armageddon'
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19160132
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
ACCRINGTON TICKET UPDATE
The football club would like to inform supporters of a relevant development
in regards to match tickets for this Saturday's (8 September 2012) npower
League 2 fixture at Accrington Stanley.
After selling out of its initial allocation, the club have been in touch
with Accrington officials to secure more spaces for City supporters for this
weekend's fixture.
The Bantams now have both standing AND seating tickets on sale for City's
trip to the Crown Ground as a result.
City have 1,000 standing spaces and around 100 seats available at Accrington
for the match.
Due to a system failure currently affecting Accrington's Ticket Office,
however, any further tickets sold from the Bantams Ticket Office for this
Saturday's match will be printed off on BRADFORD CITY tickets.
It has been confirmed by officials at Accrington that despite these match
tickets being printed on Bradford City ticket stock, they WILL still be
valid for Saturday.
Accrington match tickets are currently priced at:
Adults: £15.00
Senior Citizens over 65's: £10.00
Students with valid ID: £5.00
Juniors under 17's: £5.00
Accompanied under 12's: £1.00
Subject to availability, tickets will be on sale on the day from Accrington
for this Saturday's match.
Rotherham (3) 4 O'Connor 1, Evans 24, 86, Pringle 34
Bradford C (0) 0
Att: 11,199
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Rotherham - Bradford C
Possession: 50 - 50%
Shots on target: 6 - 2
Shots off target: 2 - 6
Fouls: 10 - 18
Corners: 5 - 4
Ref: Mark Brown (East Yorkshire)
Yellow cards:
Rotherham: Evans 54'.
Bradford C: Doyle 33', McArdle 41', Hines 45+2'
ROTHERHAM: 01 Shearer, 03 Wilson, 05 Sharps, 04 Arnason, 10 O'Connor (Taylor
- 84'), 11 Evans, 14 Bradley, 15 Pringle (Ainsworth - 87'), 19 Noble, 16
Odejayi, 17 Nardiello (Revell - 76').
SUBS: 21 Warrington, 06 Mullins, 25 Denton, 07 Ainsworth, 08 Taylor, 09
Revell, 22 Agard.
BRADFORD C: 12 Duke, 03 Meredith, 05 Davies, 06 Oliver, 23 McArdle, 07 Reid,
18 Jones, 24 Doyle (Thompson - 70'), 09 Hanson, 20 Hines (Atkinson - 46'),
21 Wells (Connell - 75').
SUBS: 01 McLaughlin, 02 Darby, 16 McHugh, 11 Thompson, 14 Atkinson, 10
Hannah, 17 Connell.
===========================
Final whistle - match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
For the second week running, a City league game was settled by half-time.
But the boot was very much on the other foot this time as Rotherham pocketed
the points with three goals in the first 35 minutes. They added a fourth in
the closing stages but the contest had been settled.
And to add salt to the wounds of the 2,000 travelling fans, two of those
goals came from former Bantam Gareth Evans .
Phil Parkinson's side arrived at the New York Stadium with confidence high
after three straight wins.
But they paid a heavy price for not closing down and giving Rotherham far
too much room in the first half.
City made the worst possible start as Rotherham grabbed the lead inside the
second minute. Michael O'Connor had time and space 30 yards out and his shot
flew past Matt Duke's right hand.
The visitors shook off the early blow to respond with some good pressure and
took the game to the Millers, looking to use Kyel Reid and Zavon Hines on
the flanks. Luke Oliver 's shot was saved and Nahki Wells drove over from a
James Hanson flick-on before they were further rocked by a second Rotherham
goal after 24 minutes.
Evans fired home against his old club and then celebrated in front of the
away end, jumping and punching the air to rub it in to the mass of
travelling fans.
Reid almost embarrassed Scott Shearer with a cross from a short corner that
the Rotherham keeper just managed to bundle clear. But City were far too
open at the other end and Kari Arnason headed wide from the home side's
first corner.
But a third Rotherham goal ten minutes before the break left City with a
mountain to climb. Ben Pringle picked up a loose ball in midfield, surged
into space and beat Duke via the post.
Wells thought he had clawed one back just before the break but was ruled
offside after Shearer had parried Nathan Doyle's initial effort into his
path.
Will Atkinson replaced Hines at half-time and Reid rattled an early shot not
too far wide. But Rotherham still threatened to score more and Gary Jones
nodded Kayode Odejayi's header off the line from a corner.
Evans blazed over from another good chance created by Daniel Nardiello.
Evans then almost caught City with a quick break but Oliver made a vital
lunging tackle in the box.
Alan Connell came on for Wells and created a couple of chances but there was
more danger at the other end as Duke saved from O'Connor.
And inevitably it was Evans who netted the only goal of the second half,
beating Duke at his near post with four minutes left.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Another Evans wind-up caps a miserable day for Bantams
6:50am Monday 3rd September 2012
By Simon Parker
Rotherham 4, Bradford City 0
All the pre-match hype had been dominated by the name Evans.
In the eyes of the 2,200-strong travelling army from West Yorkshire, Steve Evans was the figure they were desperate to put one over.
Ninety minutes later, they were licking their wounds back up the M1 having been mugged by his namesake.
The controversial Millers boss may remain public enemy number one in these parts for his involvement in the Crawley fracas and alleged conduct
outside the dressing room afterwards.
But former Bantam Gareth Evans won't be expecting any Christmas cards from his former employers and followers after his pirouette in front of the
heaving away end.
As we know from his two years at Valley Parade , Evans on a good day can be an athletic, dangerous striker. When his head is up, he is a threat
to any defence at this level.
He didn't have too many of those good days towards the end of his time with the club. Then came the ankle ligament injury from that no-holds-
barred tackle by Michael Flynn last season.
So, for him, Saturday was some kind of football karma. For those of a claret and amber persuasion, it was pure agony.
It has become a depressing cliché in recent seasons that the bigger the away following, the worse the performance from City. Add this one to the
list.
Alicia Keys may have called New York the concrete jungle where dreams are made of. City's first jaunt to Rotherham's tidy new home quickly
unfolded into a nightmare with a goal from the home side's first attack.
The impressive discipline and well-drilled shape from the early games had been left on the team bus. City were wide open from the start, inviting
the Millers to find space and have a go – they filled their boots.
Few fans quibbled with Phil Parkinson's decision to stick with the same 11 that had destroyed Wimbledon. Play both wingers, attack the opposition
and let them worry about the consequences.
Except this was no Wimbledon ripe for the slaughter but a pumped-up Millers side still buzzing on adrenaline from their new surroundings and, no
doubt, wound up to the extreme by their gaffer.
Evans senior was, to be fair, more restrained than usual. There was the odd moan at the fourth official, the pumped fists to the home fans and a
Bantam-bating keepy-uppy demonstration before a late throw-in but generally he left assistant Paul Raynor to do all the gesticulating in the
technical area.
Both managers did keep their distance. There was still no post-match handshake with Parkinson, who had spent most of the game arms tightly
folded, pacing his own zone like an expectant father.
He had expected a lot better than this. While admitting that his team selection had been too open, he was right to question the laissez-faire
attitude of players who had done such a good job on shutting down Fleetwood, another fancied opponent, 11 days earlier.
He said: "We can't afford to take our eye off the ball as an individual player or as a team.
"It's a good lesson for us. We've had a good couple of wins and there has been a lot of positive energy around the club but this shows we've got
a lot of work to do.
"We had some great moments in the first half but we didn't produce our final pass in the last third and they did. It was a case of 'you attack,
we attack' but when they did they scored."
Rotherham's opening strike from Michael O'Connor was a belter. But the midfielder was given so much space to take aim – it was to be a recurring
theme.
City did respond to that early blow and for 20 minutes looked the most likely team to score next. Kyel Reid was a threat on the left flank and
James Hanson had plenty of joy in his aerial battle with Ian Sharps.
But Nahki Wells struggled alongside him and for all the build-up play, there was nothing incisive to really trouble Scott Shearer in the home
goal.
Inevitably, Rotherham showed how it should be done midway through the half. City failed to deal with a cross, which dropped to the unmarked
Evans, and his shot into the ground went through Duke.
Cue the madcap individual celebration, fury in the away end, and the feeling of inevitability that this was going to be a very bad day at the
office.
City had to regroup to see it through to half-time. Instead they shipped a third to the impressive Ben Pringle. His run and shot, via the inside
of the post, was excellent but again questions had to be asked about the lack of closing down.
Nathan Doyle, who looked a yard off the pace throughout, was too easily beaten in a challenge by Kayode Odejayi to allow Pringle to scamper away
unhindered with the loose ball.
Parkinson tightened up at the break and sacrificed Zavon Hines for Will Atkinson but the damage had been done by the 35th minute.
The second half was better but Rotherham still possessed that much sharper edge in attack. Gary Jones, City's best performer, headed off the line
and Duke made a couple of saves to keep the scoreline in some kind of proportion.
City improved marginally with the addition of Alan Connell for Wells, a swap you expect we will see from the start at Accrington in the next
game. But Rotherham – and that "other" Evans – had the last say with a drive that beat Duke at his near post.
Parkinson called it a "step back but only a step back". The optimism and growing belief from the previous games should not be blown away by one
awful result.
City's balloon will not be burst like all those that referee Mark Brown twice halted play to pop. They have a free week now to right those wrongs
in preparation for the uncompromising surrounds of the Crown Ground.
You can be sure it will be crammed full of away fans again. The display they witness will prove if this lesson has been properly digested.
===========================
Drop your guard and you'll drop points in this league, says Bantams boss
7:00am Tuesday 4th September 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson insists City's thrashing at Rotherham spelled out just how unforgiving League Two will be.
The squad face a video session in training this week to remind them exactly where they fell apart in Saturday's one-sided Yorkshire derby.
Parkinson's side face another away trip next at Accrington, who have won three of their first four games, and the City chief wants to make sure
there is no repeat of the lackadaisical display from the New York Stadium.
Parkinson felt the 4-0 loss to the bookies' favourites – coming on the back of three straight wins – underlined the size of the task if they are
going to mount a much-anticipated promotion challenge.
He said: "It's a very competitive division, more so than ever this year. We've got a decent side and a decent squad but what is clearly evident
already is that no team is much better than anyone else.
"There is no club that stands out. If you drop down ten per cent and the other team are on their game, you will get beaten.
"It's not like you're Manchester City and can afford to be below that level and still have that quality to fall back on. Their star players will
still produce something even when the team are not playing well.
"We've had three really good games leading up to this one and it was a real wake-up call. But if you aren't right at the races in all
departments, you won't win a football game."
Parkinson will not be too harsh on his players for one bad day, given their previous form against Fleetwood, Wimbledon and Watford in the Capital
One Cup. But there were too many areas where City came up short in the Yorkshire derby – errors that will be illustrated on the TV screen.
He added: "I've had to watch the video and I'll make sure they see exactly where we did things wrong. The video doesn't lie.
"They were great strikes from Rotherham but equally we've got to be better than that.
"Look at the previous three games, Fleetwood in particular, and the way we went about our jobs in terms of taking responsibility on the pitch was
top class. But we didn't get anywhere near those standards."
Parkinson's claims about the tight nature of the division are backed up by Accrington's last two results, a stunning 3-0 win at last season's
play-off finalists Cheltenham on Saturday having lost by the same score at home to Exeter a week earlier.
He said: "We know it's going to be tough again because Accrington is a really difficult place to go. I'm concentrating on making sure we are
properly prepared to produce a performance of discipline and character."
===========================
Evans defends goal celebration after incensing Bantams fans
7:30am Monday 3rd September 2012
By Simon Parker
Gareth Evans revealed his taunting goal celebration which incensed the City fans was payback for getting crocked at Valley Parade last season.
The Bantams were today dusting themselves off from a 4-0 thumping at the New York Stadium in front of 2,200 travelling supporters.
Evans scored twice against his old club – and marked the first by leaping in the air right beneath the away end.
There were unconfirmed reports that the police were considering talking to Rotherham about his actions, which provoked a livid response from the
away crowd.
But for Evans, it was sweet revenge after he was forced off injured the last time he faced City following a crunching tackle from Michael Flynn .
Evans, who was released by City 16 months ago, said: "The (first) goal did mean a lot to me. I don't really want to say too much but, as everyone
knows, it was my old club and I had a bad time in my second year there.
"To score was enjoyable, as I felt like I was singled out when we went to Valley Parade last season. I ended up being out for three or four
months after that game.
"I only lasted about five minutes so I was keen to start (against Bradford this season). Thankfully, the gaffer gave me that opportunity and to
score made it even better.
"The goals dried up for me after I got injured at Bradford so that was all the more reason why I enjoyed the goal more."
City were behind from the first minute and skipper Gary Jones felt the performance was unacceptable for the massive following.
Jones admitted: "I apologise to our supporters for that. It wasn't good enough. In all departments, we were second best and got what we deserved.
"The first goal came as a massive shock. And after that, we ended up chasing the game for 90 minutes.
"We didn't need to do that because there was so long left. They hit us on the counter-attack twice in the first half."
Phil Parkinson had named the same side that crushed Wimbledon and played both wingers. He conceded afterwards that City had been "too open".
"I've got to take responsibility for that because I picked the team. But it was the same team that put in a very disciplined performance in a
tight game against Fleetwood, albeit at home.
"I thought we did okay up to the second goal but after that we left ourselves too vulnerable."
===========================
Bradford City plot brighter future after avoiding 'Armageddon'
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19160132
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
ACCRINGTON TICKET UPDATE
The football club would like to inform supporters of a relevant development
in regards to match tickets for this Saturday's (8 September 2012) npower
League 2 fixture at Accrington Stanley.
After selling out of its initial allocation, the club have been in touch
with Accrington officials to secure more spaces for City supporters for this
weekend's fixture.
The Bantams now have both standing AND seating tickets on sale for City's
trip to the Crown Ground as a result.
City have 1,000 standing spaces and around 100 seats available at Accrington
for the match.
Due to a system failure currently affecting Accrington's Ticket Office,
however, any further tickets sold from the Bantams Ticket Office for this
Saturday's match will be printed off on BRADFORD CITY tickets.
It has been confirmed by officials at Accrington that despite these match
tickets being printed on Bradford City ticket stock, they WILL still be
valid for Saturday.
Accrington match tickets are currently priced at:
Adults: £15.00
Senior Citizens over 65's: £10.00
Students with valid ID: £5.00
Juniors under 17's: £5.00
Accompanied under 12's: £1.00
Subject to availability, tickets will be on sale on the day from Accrington
for this Saturday's match.
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