L2 v Dag & Red (h) D3-3 March 27th 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts


===========================

Coca-Cola League Two
Bradford C (1) 3 Hanson 2, 67, Kendall 82.
Dag & Red (0) 3 Nurse 69, Williams og 75, Oliver og 90+1.
Att: 11,064

Stats: Bradford C - Dag & Red
Possession: 39 - 61%
Shots on target: 7 - 4
Shots off target: 8 - 8
Fouls: 9 - 12
Corners: 8 - 7

Ref: Paul Tierney (Lancashire)
Yellow cards:
Bradford C: O'Brien (74 min)
Dag & Red: Ogogo (88 min)

Bradford C: 40. Matthew Glennon, 5. Zesh Rehman, 12. Steve Williams, 32.
Luke Oliver, 28. Robbie Threlfall (90), 7. Omar Daley (60), 33. Adam Bolder,
4. Michael Flynn (67), 3. Luke O'Brien, 17. James Hanson, 9. Gareth Evans.
SUBS: 13. Jon McLaughlin (GK), 15. Ryan Kendall (60), 16. Jonathan Bateson,
19. James O'Brien (90), 20. Leon Osborne, 24. Louis Horne, 25. Steve O'Leary
(67).

Dag & Red: 1. Tony Roberts, 19. Abu Ogogo, 4. Scott Doe, 6. Mark Arber, 3.
Damien McCrory, 7. Danny Green (90), 28. Marlon Pack, 5. Yoann Folly (65),
33. Peter Gain, 14. Paul Benson, 10. Josh Scott (83).
SUBS: 30. Chris Lewington (GK), 9. Jon Nurse (65), 15. Anwar Uddin, 17.
Darren Currie (90), 22. Graeme Montgomery, 26. Tommy Tejan-Sie, 31. Phil
Walsh (83).

Next match: (A) Bournemouth, Saturday April 3, 2010. K.O. 3:00PM.




===========================

By Simon Parker (T&A)

Two own goals cost City victory in a remarkable afternoon at Valley Parade.

The Bantams should have claimed a third home win under Peter Taylor.

James Hanson scored twice before substitute Ryan Kendall looked to have
clinched it with a great finish eight minutes from time.

But Luke Oliver put through his own net - as fellow centre half Steve
Williams had already done - to earn Dagenham a point.

City roared out the blocks with their quickest goal at home this season.

The game was less than two minutes old as Robbie Threlfall's opening corner
was powered in by Hanson.

The confidence surged through the Bantams who carved out several good
chances with some crowd-pleasing football.

Daley was clearly enjoying himself, giving the Daggers defence the
run-around, and twice went close. Gareth Evans also had a couple of decent
efforts, though Daley was completely on his own and screaming for a pass
when he opted to shoot straight at keeper Tony Roberts.

Dagenham were pleased to go in only 1-0 down at half-time. Their best effort
was a glancing header from Josh Scott that landed the wrong side of the far
post.

Both sides could have scored within three minutes of the re-start.

Matt Glennon denied Mark Arber an equaliser with a block from point-blank
range. Within seconds, Hanson headed Daley's cross against the foot of the
post.

But Daley's day suddenly ended just before the hour when he pulled up during
a run along the touchline.

Hanson doubled City's advantage with another header from a Threlfall cross -
and another home win looked to be settled.

But Dagenham had other ideas.

Sub Jon Nurse quickly pulled one back then Scott burst clear of Steve
Williams but fired wide.

City's reprieve was short-lived as Williams deflected Arber's header into
his own net to equalise.

As the game continued to hot up, City dusted themselves off to notch a third
of their own.

Again it was started by Threlfall with a long free-kick upfield, again it
involved man of the match Hanson and Kendall superbly lifted his flick-on
over Roberts for a memorable first senior goal.

But City shot themselves in the foot with another own goal. Adam Bolder gave
the ball away and Nurse's cross was headed into the City net by the diving
Luke Oliver.

And Dagenham could have won it in stoppage time but Paul Benson headed over
from six yards.

===========================

Video and pictures

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/MatchGallery/0,,10266~2008061,00.html

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_3/8592019.stm



===========================

Taylor makes 'sensible' contract demands

Peter Taylor's future at City will hinge on getting "the right
tools" from the club.

Taylor is talking with the board over a new contract for next season
and both parties expect a decision within three weeks.

He insists his own wages will not be a stumbling block.

The key issues surround budgets for players, training and preparation
plans, such as overnight stops for away games.

Taylor said: "I don't think my personal situation will be a problem
at all. Of course I want to commit myself to Bradford and to getting
promotion.

"It's more what we can do on players, how we prepare and so on. I
want to be competitive.

"I would love to get Bradford up a division at least and for that we
need to have the right tools.

"We need a bit more on the fitness side and things like gymnasiums. I
don't mean going crazily into costs.

"I'm also realistic. I've managed in the Conference as well as
other levels and I'm not looking to put Bradford into the red
ridiculously because of over-spending.

"I feel with a sensible budget and sensible tools of the field, we
could have a really good time. I can see what could be done here."

Taylor's spirits are high going into tomorrow's home clash with
Dagenham.

He felt the performance against an in-form Notts County was the best
in his nine games so far.

He added: "I've thoroughly enjoyed it and I'm hopeful with the
way we performed on Tuesday, the supporters are enjoying it because
they can see some real progress."

Meanwhile, City missed out on a deadline-day loan deal last night
after their striker target picked up an injury.

Taylor, who let Mark McCammon go back to Gillingham, will use the
remaining games for a good look at the forwards already on board.

He said: "If we had been going for promotion, I would have tried to
bring in another one, but we've got people I need to look at.

"Once Gavin Grant gets better he can play up there; Flynn can play
there; I need to look at Evans a bit more; we've got Ryan Kendall in
andJames Hanson, of course."

McCammon made four appearances for City but started only twice against
Darlington and Aldershot.



===========================

BANTAMS MAKE TAYLOR ASSURANCES

Bradford are poised to switch training grounds in a bid to secure manager
Peter Taylor on a longer-term contract at Valley Parade.

Taylor, 57, signed a short-term deal at Valley Parade in February until the
end of the season when installed as Stuart McCall's successor and the former
England caretaker-coach has sought a several assurances from the City board
before committing himself.

Joint-chairman Mark Lawn, who refused to confirm the new training site's
location said: "We're hopeful of negotiating something. This place has got
four or five quality pitches that aren't being used during the daytime and
only get played on once or twice a week.

"Peter wants to go somewhere that the lads can turn up, get changed and
showered there. He's said the changing facilities are not good enough at
Rawdon Meadows and I think he's probably right."

Lawn added: "Hopefully we've sorted his wages and personal terms and we're
nearly there with the budget for players.

"But it's also down to the fans. We're launching season tickets next week
and if we can sell 5,000, I can give him the budget that he wants."

===========================


CAMBRIDGE EXTEND NEILSON LOAN

Blue Square Premier outfit Cambridge United have extended the loan of
Bradford City winger Scott Neilson until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old joined Martin Ling's side on a one-month loan deal in March
and has played a pivotal role in Cambridge's recent unbeaten run.

Ling told the club's official website: "We're delighted to have him for rest
of season, he's been a major factor in our turnaround of form.

"We need him to continue in the same vein and help us finish the season in
style.

"He'll go back to Bradford for the last two weeks of their season and we'll
assess the situation in the summer."

===========================

OLIVER EXTENDS LOAN

By Simon Parker (T&A)

Defender Luke Oliver is set to extend his City loan from Wycombe until the
end of the season.

The current one-month deal was due to expire on Saturday.

===========================

LAWN: TIME TO TURF OUT THE OLD PLAYING SURFACE

By Simon Parker (T&A)

City have called in the experts to rescue the Valley Parade pitch.

World-renowned Sports Turf Research Institute, from Bingley, will offer help
on a surface that has been slammed by players and managers.

City are ready to dig up the pitch – which has been battered by extreme
winter weather – and start again at the end of the season. None of the local
league cup finals will be played there.

Joint-chairman Mark Lawn said: "I don't think the team look forward to
playing on that pitch. I don't think anyone would.

"But we're bringing in the turfing specialists to give us a consultation and
get the right ideas and advice. There's no reason why we can't get it better
– when we were in League One we won best pitch in the division.

"There's no disguising the weather over the last few months has been a lot
worse in the north. Look at the pitches at Rotherham, Rochdale, Bury and
anyone that's around us and then compare that with Aldershot."

Drainage has traditionally been a problem but Lawn admitted it would be far
too expensive to replace the foundations under the pitch.

"It's always going to be an issue unless we dig the whole thing up. But
1920s concrete seems to last.

"It wouldn't be a very easy job to do anyway and you'd be looking at figures
anything from £250,000 to £500,000, which obviously we can't afford.

"But we're going to get help from experts and we know we are getting the
best with this company. I'm sure they will tell us exactly what to do.

"(Commercial director) Roger Owen has had some dealings with them through
Morrison's and landfill sites. He knows the expertise coming in.

"Last year we had a lot of games on it after the end of the season. There
are only going to be two now – a community one and another for the Burns
Unit.

"We're not doing all the league cup finals. We need to give that pitch a
good eight weeks' rest, whatever we do."

Dagenham boss John Still was the latest critic of Valley Parade at the
weekend and called the conditions "treacherous".

City goal-scorer Ryan Kendall admitted there is little home advantage.

"The gaffer wants a passing team and wants us to get the ball down and
play," said the loan striker.

"We've got good players here but the pitch doesn't help the boys. But
there's nothing we can do about it this late in the season."

The Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI), based at the St Ives Estate, have
a reputation around the globe.

This summer, they will be working as consultants on pitch maintenance at the
World Cup in South Africa.

They relayed the Wembley surface last year and have also worked on
Wimbledon, Twickenham, Ascot and Ireland's Croke Park.

L2 v Notts County (h) D0-0 March 23rd 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts


===========================

Football League Two - KO 19:45
Bradford      0 (0) - 0 (0)    Notts Co
       
  At Valley Parade on 23-03-2010


Bradford: Glennon, Oliver, Rehman (Bateson, 73 ) , Luke O'Brien, Threlfall, Williams, Flynn, Daley (Kendall, 74 ) ,

Bolder, Evans, Hanson
Subs not used: McCammon,Osborne,McLaughlan,Horne,O'Neill,

Notts Co: Schmeichel, Thompson, Hunt, Edwards, Lee, Ravenhill, Bishop, Davies, Westcarr, Hawley ( Facey, 59 ) ,

Rodgers ( Akinbiyi, 85 )
Subs not used: Clapham, Hoult, Canham, Fairclough, Hamshaw,

Bookings: Bolder , Daley , Oliver (Bradford)
Attendance: 11630

Referee: O Langford

Stats

TEAM STATS
Bradford    Notts Coun
13(7)    Shots (on Goal)    11(5)
9    Fouls            7
6    Corner Kicks    11
0    Offsides    5
50%    Time of Poss.    50%
3    Yellow Cards    0
0    Red Cards    0
4    Saves            5


===========================
Pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2003827,00.html?

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics/sport_bantams_pics_nottscountyhome/view/gallery_139967.City_v_Notts_County_16_1_10_/

Video
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_3/8586182.stm



===========================

T&A

Bantams battlers rain on County's promotion parade
7:50am Wednesday 24th March 2010
By Simon Parker

City 0 Notts County 0

Peter Taylor got the response he was after as City slugged it out with League Two's form team last night.

Taylor fumed at the inconsistency after Saturday's disappointment at Hereford.

He demanded better against much better opponents at Valley Parade – and his players showed their battling qualities

to earn a draw against a side who have been beating all before them.

The ground-staff were out in force before the game as the pitch took a bashing from the heavy rain.

The ball was running freely during the warm-ups but the water was laying in several patches.

Taylor made four changes from the weekend loss at Edgar Street. Zesh Rehman, one of those coming back in, also took

the captain's armband from the suspended Lee Bullock.

Rehman lined up at right back while Steve Williams returned to the middle of the back four. Matt Clarke was not in

the squad at all.

City were under no illusions about the task ahead. Notts came to Valley Parade with 16 points from a possible 18 in

the six games since Steve Cotterill took over – including five clean sheets.

The home side were nearly undone within two minutes as Steve Williams failed to deal with a route one clearance

from Graeme Lee. The former City skipper's pass bounced past him to Luke Rodgers but he managed to do enough to put

the striker off getting a clean shot at Matt Glennon.

A draw was not much use to either side so there was a positive feel to the early exchanges. Notts in particular had

a shoot-on-sight policy, with the yellow-booted Rodgers happy to chase everything as he made the most of his

reprieve from Saturday's red card.

Robbie Threlfall, who renewed his loan to the end of the season this week, was in the wars after 17 minutes. The

young full back slid painfully into an advertising hoarding and needed treatment.

While he was off, County went close, with Ben Davies teeing up Rodgers for a glancing header just wide.

Michael Flynn, back in midfield to cover Bullock's absence, was in the hub of things for City as they tried to keep

the ball on the floor despite the conditions.

But Omar Daley was finding it tough to get into the game on the right flank. When he got the ball, there were

usually two opponents facing him.

When the Jamaican did get some space to whip in a cross, it was well dealt with by the stretching Ricky Ravenhill

before Gareth Evans could react.

City were close to a breakthrough on the half hour. Luke Oliver nodded a free-kick into the mix, where Williams

helped it on to Evans but the striker's instinctive stab was shovelled past the post by Kasper Schmeichel.

Daley then gave away a cheap free-kick at the other end but Mike Edwards could not get any purchase on his header.

Threlfall, showing no effects of the earlier collision, chanced his arm from 30 yards but the ball sailed

harmlessly into the TL Dallas Stand.

Adam Bolder was pulled up by referee Oliver Langford for the softest of nudges on Davies – and then booked for

lashing the ball away in frustration.

Rodgers was playing on the last man all the time, looking to get behind the City defence from any pass over the

top.

Notts forced their first couple of corners as half-time approached. The home side saw off the threat but again

didn't deal with a long ball coming back in and Davies sent a curler wide.

Daley joined Bolder in the book for a foul on Davies and the crowd weren't happy with the number of decisions going

against City. An offside flag for Rodgers drew ironic applause.

Luke O'Brien then showed a clean pair of heels to former team-mate Lee wide on the left. He slid the ball back to

James Hanson inside the box but the big man was unable to get it out from under his feet and the danger passed.

City were certainly holding their own against the division's in-form team. Given the pitch and the weather – it was

still pouring – it was a decent, full-blooded contest.

Rodgers still posed the biggest threat and latched menacingly on to a misheader from Oliver on the halfway line.

Cutting inside, he worked the ball on to Ravenhill, who found Craig Westcarr in space to his left.

There was genuine danger as the winger reached the box but Flynn had seen it and positioned himself perfectly to

cut out his shot with a clearing header.

O'Brien whisked a low cross just beyond Hanson and then had a go from Threlfall's pass but it was on his weaker

right foot and flew off course.

City turned a Notts County corner into one of their own as Bolder sprayed a deep ball for Hanson to chase. The

striker nearly got his reward as Williams' header bounced into his path but he skied a drive from 12 yards out.

Home tails were up and Flynn charged forward before warming Schmeichel's hands with a trademark blast. Cotterill

can't have been happy and sent on Delroy Facey for the anonymous Karl Hawley to give Oliver some genuine

competition in the air.

County wasted a great chance on 65 minutes. Rodgers eluded Williams to cut the ball back from the byline,

Westcarr's dummy created space for Davies but the midfielder blazed over from eight yards.

City responded with a well-struck effort from Evans on the right flank which Schmeichel stretched to beat away.

But City's sloppiness threatened to undo the good work. Rehman needlessly conceded a corner with a miscontrol from

a long ball and then a poor touch from Evans set up Rodgers for a snap-shot.

Taylor reacted with a double switch as Jon Bateson and Ryan Kendall replaced Rehman and Daley. But the Notts County

pressure was building as City were pushed further back.

County's corners were clocking up and Hanson was playing a key role, getting a thumping defensive header on several

of them.

Hanson then went back to the day job to fire a low drive straight at Schmeichel.

Oliver received City's third yellow card for a late tangle with substitute Ade Akinbiyi before a good chance fell

to Hanson, who scooped over.

===========================

Nott bad! Taylor happy with a point
7:00am Wednesday 24th March 2010
By Simon Parker

Peter Taylor felt City passed their test against the side he is tipping as promotion favourites.

The Bantams battled their way to a goalless draw with second-placed Notts County at soggy Valley Parade last night.

City bounced back from Saturday's loss at lowly Hereford and Taylor said: "You always enjoy yourself when players

respond like that.

"We knew it was going to be a big test and I'm delighted with the outcome. It was a great clean sheet for us."

It was the first time that free-scoring County had fired a blank in the league since November.

Taylor added: "Notts County have got eight strikers who have scored at this level so they are very strong. They've

also got a goalkeeper that's different class.

"If they don't get injuries, Notts County will be very strong favourites for promotion. So to play as well as we

did against such a good team is really encouraging.

"We started a little bit nervously but once we started having two touches at the back instead of just heading it

away when we didn't have to, we began to have a few more chances.

"Over the 90 minutes I think their goalkeeper was a little bit busier than ours."

Taylor made four changes from the Edgar Street failure and left out Matt Clarke completely. Zesh Rehman played his

first game since Accring-ton and was also made skipper.

The City boss said: "I decided to rest Matt. I thought he looked tired on Saturday.

"We had a long journey back (from Hereford) and you then go and play on that pitch against the good strikers that

Notts County have. I thought it might have been a time to put fresh legs in. I put Steve Williams in there and,

like the rest of the back four, he started nervously but then got stronger.

"You don't get a minute's peace with Luke Rodgers. He's an absolute pest but a good player."

City will be hoping the pitch can recover in time for this weekend's home clash with Dagenham.

Tonight's reserve game against Scunthorpe has been called off as a precaution.

Taylor said: "We could really do with some dry weather."

===========================

===========================

Bradford eager to tie Taylor to longer contract

JULIAN RHODES is hoping to conclude a deal to keep Peter Taylor as
Bradford City manager beyond the end of the season within "two to three
weeks".
The Bantams turned to the 57-year-old midway through last month on an
interim basis following Stuart McCall's decision to quit.

City have since won four and drawn one of nine games under Taylor and
the Valley Parade board are keen to tie down the former Hull City
manager on a longer contract.

Initial talks between Taylor and the club took place last week with
further discussions being held yesterday.

Joint chairman Rhodes said: "We have had a chat about next year and,
hopefully, we can get things resolved within the next two to three weeks.

"We have chatted about the budgets for next season and I feel the
preliminary talks went well. Peter certainly seems to be enjoying the
job while we have also been happy with the progress being made.

"It would be great to move it on and get things sorted out. What we
would really like to see is what Peter could do next season with a squad
he has assembled himself."

Taylor may have only been in charge of City for five weeks but his
influence has been keenly felt at Valley Parade with six new loan
signings having arrived and another possibly joining before today's 5pm
deadline.

Veteran trio Chris Brandon, Peter Thorne and Michael Boulding have also
had their contracts paid up as part of the club's re-building plans
ahead of next season.

Rhodes added: "We have been impressed with the job Peter has done, even
in this short space of time.

"The organisation of the team has been impressive and it is clear he
knows what is required to get the best out of a squad at this level,
which is of course what we all want at Bradford City."

Taylor arrived at Bradford with an impressive CV boasting two previous
promotion successes from the basement division with Hull City in 2004
and Wycombe Wanderers last term.

He also led Gillingham out of the third tier in 2000 via the play-offs,
Brighton as champions two years later and Hull in 2005.

Taylor, who has been assisted at Valley Parade by Junior Lewis and Wayne
Jacobs, beat off stiff competition from Peter Jackson, Russell Slade,
Martin Allen, Jim Magilton and Steve Cotterill to land the City job.

His quartet of victories as Bantams manager include a 3-1 triumph at
runaway leaders Rochdale and a 2-1 success against promotion-chasing
Rotherham United at the Don Valley Stadium.





===========================

Brandon: My pride has been dented
7:40am Thursday 25th March 2010
Exclusive By Simon Parker

Chris Brandon today admitted he felt "cheated" by his time at Valley Parade.

Brandon, who cut his ties with City last week, made just 31 appearances in two seasons at his hometown club.

The 33-year-old was bitterly disappointed that it didn't work out.

He said: "There's a lot of things I would like to say but I've got to be professional about myself and my conduct and move on. I don't want to upset anybody.

"I've just got to put a line under everything."

Brandon, who joined City in May 2008, missed a huge chunk of last season with ankle injuries. But after surviving a summer cull of the bigger earners, he failed to get a regular slot this term.

His longest run in the side was four successive starts in January, although he was subbed in three of them.

"I feel cheated because it's my home club. My pride has been dented.

"You need to be playing games wherever you go. You need that run to find your feet.

"I never got that chance to prove my worth for a number of reasons.

"I'm a Bradford fan and I wanted to do well so badly. But it was just one problem after another.

"There were a lot of things I didn't agree with but as a professional you've got to go along with those decisions and respect them whether you like it or not.

"You can't keep every footballer happy. You have ups and downs in the game and unfortunately my down was Bradford.

"I don't think the club knew where my best position was and didn't know my best attributes.

"I was on the left, on the right, in a three or playing off the front man. I can play all those positions and was happy to do so but it's not easy when you're being switched around all the time."

Brandon has had a few offers from clubs and is heading for Scotland to train with Dundee United with a view to signing in the summer.

He insists there is still plenty in the tank.

"I've got to resurrect my career. I still feel I've got a lot of football left in me. I'm a naturally fit lad but people start looking at your age.

"After the two years I've had, I feel like I'm starting again – I've got to prove that I'm not washed up.

"I look at people like Peter Thorne and that gives me a lot of inspiration. He came here after a bad time at Norwich and did a fantastic job.

"You don't become a bad player overnight but you go through a lot of emotions when things don't work out.

"I genuinely wish Bradford all the best but it's time for me to move on now.

"I've got to be strong-minded and keep believing in myself."

===========================

Leave City, score goals

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2004810,00.html?


===========================
(from BCFC site)

McCammon returns to Gillingham

On loan transfer deadline day, the Bantams have decided not to extend
Mark McCammon's loan deal with the football club.

The giant striker will therefore return to his parent club Gillingham
this week, unless the League 1 side can secure a loan deal for him
with another club before the window slams shut.

McCammon joined the Bantams on 26 February 2010 before making his
debut against Darlington at the Coral Windows Stadium the following
day alongside James Hanson.

The 31 year old went onto make three further appearances for Bradford
with his only other start for City coming at Aldershot Town's EBB
Stadium.

The football club would like to thank Mark for his efforts during his
short spell with the Bantams and wish him all the best for the future.

---
(from T&A)

Mark McCammon has returned to Gillingham after his month's loan at City.

And the big striker, who started only twice, could be on his way straight back out - if he can find another club before today's 5pm transfer deadline.

Peter Taylor said: "I wouldn't think we are an easy team to play for at the minute so it was probably a little more difficult for a striker.

"Mark didn't join us 100 per cent match fit and I think that affected his touch and timing.

"He helped James Hanson, no doubt about that, and gave him a few ideas.

"I said I would always keep an eye on his situation but he knows he's got to get fit. You've got to be fit in any sport."


===========================

EASTER FOOTBAL COURSES

By Bill Marshall (T&A)

Bradford City Football Club's Community Foundation are running two-day and
four-day Easter courses.

The four-day courses are from Tuesday, April 6 to Friday, April 9 at
Thornton Grammar School, Sandy Sports Centre (Skipton) and GOALS Soccer
Centre at Hanson.

Tong School and Marley Activities and Coaching Centre (Keighley) stage
two-day courses on Monday, April 12 to Tuesday, April 13.

And Ben Rhydding Sports Club (Ilkley) and Buttershaw Business and Enterprise
College host two-day courses on Thursday, April 15 to Friday, April 16.

The camps are for boys and girls of all ability levels aged from five to 13
and last from 10am-3pm.

For further information, ring 01274-706850 or e-mail City at
bradfordcityfitc@aol.com. Alternatively look at their website at
www.bradfordcityfitc.org.uk.

===========================

T&A website news

Our coverage of City on the T&A website is now better than ever. We have added a new section on League Two, with statistics, player profiles, an updated league table and all this season's fixtures & results: telegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/

L2 v Hereford (a) L0-2 March 20th 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts

===========================

Stadium: Edgar Street, England
Attendance: 1,926
Match Time: 11:00 ET
Official(s):
D McDermidd (Referee)

Hereford: Bartlett ,Green ,Ryan Valentine ,Darren Jones ,Rose ,Lunt ,Pugh ,McCallum (Jervis ,70 ) ,McQuilkin
,Manset (Leon Constantine ,71 ) ,Young
Subs not used: Adamson,Done,Gwynne,Sonko,Preston,

Bradford: Glennon ,Oliver ,Clarke ,Threlfall ,Bateson ,Flynn ,Bullock (McCammon ,59 ) ,Grant (Daley ,51 ) ,Bolder
,Evans (Kendall ,77 ) ,Hanson
Subs not used Rehman,Luke O'Brien,McLaughlan,O'Neill,

Bookings: Bullock ,Oliver (Bradford)

Goals
Manset 33
Jervis 81

MATCH STATS
                    Hereford Bradford City
Shots (on Goal)         13(7)     15(6)
Fouls             5     16
Corner Kicks         7     6
Offsides         5     1
Time of Possession    50%     50%
Yellow Cards         0     2
Red Cards         0     0
Saves             7     4





===========================

From ESPN
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=269645&cc=5901

Hereford ended a run of four consecutive home defeats with a 2-0 victory over Bradford in an entertaining contest

at Edgar Street.
Frenchman Mathieu Manset headed home their first in the 33rd minute, with teenage striker Jake Jervis snapping up

the second in the 81st minute.

Eighteen-year-old Jervis, who has joined Hereford on a month's loan from Birmingham, lobbed the ball over the top

of the Bradford goalkeeper on his debut.

Play switched from end to end in the first half, with both goalkeepers Adam Bartlett and Matt Glennon making good

saves.

Hereford keeper Bartlett palmed away a shot from Gavin Grant and then made a flying save to stop a header from

Gareth Evans.

Bradford stopper Glennon also saved a close-range effort from Darren Jones on the goal-line before Hereford took

the lead.

Full-back Ryan Valentine headed a corner from Marc Pugh back across the Bradford goalmouth for Manset to head home

from two yards.

After the break both sides missed early chances, with Pugh rifling wide of the near post while down at the other

end Bradford's midfielder Evans drilled over from eight yards with only Bartlett to beat.

Hereford survived a let-off when Bradford substitute Mark McCammon headed a corner from Robbie Threlfall onto the

foot of the post.

Jervis then clinched the victory when he lobbed the ball over the top of Glennon from 10 yards.

---

T&A


Lacklustre City stumbled to defeat in the wind and rain at Hereford this afternoon.

The Bulls had lost their previous four home games - but they deserved to put that wretched run to bed in an

entertaining contest.

City had made a decent start with two good chances in the first six minutes.

James Hanson put a free header wide from the game's opening corner and Gavin Grant was thwarted by the slightest of

touches from home keeper Adam Bartlett.

But City failed to push on for a while as Hereford grabbed control. Peter Taylor's frustration on the touchline

resulted in a warning from referee Danny McDermid.

It was a very open encounter with headers at both ends well saved to deny Gareth Evans and Darren Jones.

But Hereford went in front after 33 minutes as Mathieu Manset bundled home from a yard after City failed to deal

with Marc Pugh's corner.

Pugh nearly made it 2-0 straight after the break before City - playing into the driving rain - should have levelled

from close range. Luke Oliver's shot was blocked but Evans showed no composure as he lashed the rebound over the

bar.

Hereford old boy Robbie Threlfall denied Manset a second, getting his head in the way of a goal-bound effort from

the Frenchman.

Evans volleyed over from sub Mark McCammon's flick-on. Then McCammon's header from a corner bounced against the

post as City chased an equaliser.

But despite enjoying more possession after the break, City did not trouble Bartlett enough.

And on-loan Birmingham teenager Jake Jervis killed them off nine minutes from time, bagging a debut goal with a

clever finish after Bartlett's wind-assisted free-kick had deceived the City defence.

To add to Peter Taylor's miserable day, Lee Bullock received his tenth booking - and will miss the next two games.


===========================

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/article7069717.ece

TWO FOOTBALL League clubs have been fined for failing to abide by the FA's doping control regulations, but that is

just the tip of the iceberg, with dozens of players missing out-of-competition tests in England.

QPR and Bradford City have been fined £6,000 and £1,000 respectively for repeated failure to provide accurate

information to sampling officers trying to locate players they want to test.

It is prohibited for a player to miss three tests in an 18-month period — anybody who does so faces a lengthy ban.

The failure of a club to give the FA accurate information concerning the whereabouts of players is also prohibited.

Click the link above for full story


===========================

From thursday

Chris Brandon has also had his contract terminated today.

===========================

Lawn: Taylor contract talks will take time

City are ready to step up contract talks with Peter Taylor.

The manager's short-term deal runs until the end of May and fans have
been calling for the club to pin him down for next season.

A contract is more than just what wages we are going to pay Peter

Taylor admitted he has "got the bug" at Valley Parade and has been
busy rebuilding the squad with six new signings.

But joint-chairman Mark Lawn stressed that plenty will have to be
agreed to secure the boss for the long-term.

He said: "I think we will be talking to Peter very soon and seeing
what he wants.

"But I need to make it clear that a contract is more than just what
wages we are going to pay Peter.

"He's going to want a budget and to make sure we can fulfil his
requirements. We've got to wait to sit down and talk to him about
that and see where we go from there.

"Talks have started about player budgets, not about his wages.

"He's coming back to us with what he thinks would be a realistic
figure to help us get promotion.

"Peter's got it in his own mind who he'd like to keep and who he
would let go."

Lawn has been impressed with City's progress since the former England
under-21 coach took the helm. They have won four of the last six games.

"There is a definite improvement in the team in general both on an
off the pitch, which is quite impressive. He's doing a very good job.

"Peter has got us well organised and defending well. That always
gives you a chance.

"Once you stop the goals going in, it gives you something to build on.

"He's got immense contacts within the game. People know Peter and
are willing to help him.

"I don't think we can knock any of the players he's brought in.
They certainly seem to have improved the side wherever they've
slotted into.

"All parties need to be happy with what's happening. From our point
of view we're very happy with what Peter is doing."

===========================

TOP TEN HIT THORNE WITH NO REGRETS

By Simon Parker (T&A)

Dean Windass, in his modest manner, claimed City's No 10 shirt was a big one
to fill.

Well, for two seasons at least, it fitted Peter Thorne a treat.

He may have scored less than half the 87 goals that put his predecessor
third on the all-time club list.

But the 32 that Thorne rattled in after joining from Norwich City in July
2007 were bagged at a prolific rate of one every other game.

He rattled them in bursts despite the constant curse of injuries.

Remember, it took him three months of the 2007/08 campaign to finally break
his duck against Chester in the FA Cup.

But then the goals started flooding.

He netted seven in a seven-game blast early in the new year, including a
hat-trick against Notts County - opponents he always relished playing.

And Thorne made a flying start to last season with eight goals from the
opening seven matches as City powered to the top of the League Two table.

Sadly neither could maintain that momentum.

His double in the final, meaningless home game against Rotherham last April
turned out to be his swansong on the City scoresheet. In hindsight, maybe
Thorne should have called that it rather than being persuaded back for one
last unsuccessful hurrah by former manager Stuart McCall.

But in the week that the 36-year-old waved goodbye and hung up his playing
boots, he refused to see it that way.

"I've no regrets about trying to carry on," he said.

"If I had packed up last year it would have been niggling away in the back
of mind that I should have played on one more.

"But that's it now. I've got to listen to my body and it's saying I've had
enough.

"I've been out that long with my hamstring and I've got a problem with my
knee now that might need an operation. You can't keep fighting it.

"When you aren't 100 per-cent fit you don't do yourself justice.

"You've got to think about quality of life."

Through all the setbacks - and there were many - Thorne was always a chirpy
figure; as popular with the Valley Parade staff as his team-mates.

He enjoyed practicing his Portuguese with the chef as much as passing on
playing tips to the club's young trainees.

It's no surprise that Peter Taylor has offered him the chance to help with a
bit of training.

And even if he does not take that up, expect Thorne to be regularly knocking
round the place.

"I've loved it at Bradford and the way I've been treated.

"I've just got great memories about the place; about the fans and the people
who work there.

"The most disappointing thing is that we didn't go up. I wish that could
have happened last season, not just for me but all the lads, the supporters
and for Stuart.

"Bradford made me enjoy my football again and I'll always be grateful for
that.

"If I was leaving a club who were struggling it would be harder. But I
genuinely believe Peter Taylor will do a great job.

"I think they've got a big chance of going up next season. It's just a shame
I couldn't be with them."

City will not feel the same without a Thorne in the side.

===========================

Misfiring players vulnerable to axe

More grim days like Hereford will leave City's players vulnerable to
the chop this summer, Peter Taylor warned today.

The Bantams boss voiced his frustration after watching them sunk by a
side battling to beat the drop.

And he left the squad in no doubt that they are playing for their
Valley Parade futures over the final ten games.

Taylor has shown he is ready to make big decisions after four players
left the club last week.

He said: "As I said the first day I met everyone, it's they
who've got to perform. They are vulnerable at the end of the season
because there are so many players about.

"Sometimes they surprise me but I think I near on know the majority
of their strengths and weaknesses.

"There were too many players who didn't perform as they should do
and that's maybe why we are 16th in the table."

Hereford had lost four in a row at home but City paid the price for
squandering chances and Taylor admitted their inconsistency comes with
the territory.

He said: "I would be totally amazed if anyone watching football at
our level sees consistent performances for 40 games a year. Even in
the Premier League, they would be struggling to do it for their 38.

"At our level, the boys are unfortunately more inconsistent than the
top ones, so there's always going to be times when this happens.

"We did create some chances, which was the only encouragement, but we
tried to smash the net out of sight – we didn't have good quality
in our finishing."

Midfielder Adam Bolder admitted: "One week we turn it on, next we
won't. I didn't think we were great anywhere but that's the
inconsistency."

Meanwhile, Chris Brandon – one of those already gone from City – is
set to train with Dundee United with a view to joining the Scottish
club in the summer.

===========================

Threlfall stays on

The Bantams have today managed to secure the services of Liverpool
left back Robbie Threlfall until the end of the season.

The 21 year old has put pen to paper on an extension to his current
loan deal, which was due to expire today, to keep him at the Coral
Windows Stadium until May.

Threlfall will now be available for selection for Bradford's Coca-Cola
League 2 home fixture with Notts County this Tuesday.

The born and bred Liverpudlian originally moved to Valley Parade from
Anfield on a month long deal back in February.

He instantly went about making a good impression with the Bantams
faithful by scoring a superb free kick on his debut to help City
secure a shock win at runaway League 2 leaders Rochdale.

Since his stunning debut, Threlfall has been ever present in the
Bantams back four and has made the left back slot his own.

The former F.A Youth Cup winner has also managed to double his
personal goal tally with Bradford when he produced another well taken
free kick against Port Vale in early March.

---

Robbie Threlfall insists loan players are fully up for the cause.

Threlfall is one of five that Peter Taylor has borrowed from other
clubs since he took the City helm.

The Liverpool left back's stay has been extended beyond its one-month
deadline so he will remain part of the plans for the last ten games.

As he prepared for tomorrow's clash with second-placed Notts County,
Threlfall stressed that the temporary arrivals show just the same
level of commitment as the full-time players in the squad.

He said: "It's not a problem. Once you've been here a couple of
days, it feels like your club straight away.

"It only takes a game to settle in and the other lads make you feel
at home.

"When I was at Hereford, we had eight loan players at one stage but
that gave everyone real competition for places.

"It just spurred on the whole squad to do well and keep their place
in the team."

City's hectic schedule under Taylor means that Threlfall, the first
of his captures, has already played seven games – with a couple of
stunning free-kicks thrown in for good measure.

The goals brought a quick reaction from his team-mates in the Anfield
reserves.

He said: "There was a bit of banter flying and I got a few texts.
People had seen them on the telly and couldn't believe it.

"But as long as I can get the ball over the wall, I'm always
confident it will go in. Hopefully I'll get another chance to score
from the next free-kick."

The 21-year-old loanee has no complaints about the heavy workload.

He said: "The games are coming thick and fast and I'm loving it.
You can't beat playing Saturday and Tuesday and I'm enjoying being
involved.

"The aim for the rest of the season is to get some pride back and
start moving up the table. We've been stuck in 16th but maybe with a
bit of momentum we can get into the top half."

Taylor added: "When we made the deal with Liverpool we always said
we'd look for a month and go from there. They were very happy we
could take it through to the end of the season.

"I'm pleased that Robbie is enjoying it here and wants to stay
longer."
===========================

L2 v Aldershot (h) W2-1 March 13th 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts


===========================

TEAM STATS
Bradford           Aldershot
5(4)    Shots (on Goal)    10(4)
11    Fouls    8
5    Corner Kicks    7
2    Offsides    3
51%    Time of Poss.    49%
2    Yellow Cards    1
0    Red Cards    0
7    Saves    3




===========================

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/5062317.The_end_for_Thorne_and_Boulding/


The end for Thorne and Boulding

7:00am Tuesday 16th March 2010

Exclusive By Simon Parker

Peter Thorne and Michael Boulding have both left Valley Parade as Peter Taylor stamps his authority on City.

Boulding's departure – as well as that of younger brother Rory – was announced yesterday. And Thorne, the top scorer for the past two seasons, has also agreed to cut short a deal ravaged by injury.

As two veteran hitmen head for the exit, City have lined up another short-term capture. Twenty-year-old Ryan Kendall will come in from Hull this week on a month's loan.

Taylor praised the professional way that Thorne and Boulding accepted his decision. And he has left the door open for Thorne to come back in a coaching capacity.

"It was very hard for me to speak to them," said the City boss. "I still don't know exactly what's happening next season.

"But I said that if I am here, I didn't think I would be offering them another contract.

"Their response was terrific. They were both so respectful and totally understanding.

"It's a bit different with Peter. Michael has had a frustrating time with the club while Peter has been an absolute legend here.

"I'm trying to bring some fresh faces in so I couldn't guarantee they would play a part. Both said if that was the case, they would prefer to finish now.

"In Michael's case, I had people like Gavin Grant and Gareth Evans on the bench on Saturday giving me pace, as well as Mark McCammon. And of course they are much younger."

Thorne topped the City scoring charts with 15 in his first year at the club and then 17 last season. Those goals were scored at the impressive rate of one every two games.

But injuries have restricted him to only five starts this season, leaving him three short of 200 career goals.

He has been unable to train recently because of problems with his knee.

Thorne has been immensely popular in the dressing room and Taylor would welcome him back to help from the sidelines.

He said: "If Peter wants to come here and help with my coaching, I've offered him that chance."

Boulding never hit top gear after Stuart McCall won the drawn-out race for his signature 20 months ago.

Having notched 24 goals in a relegated Mansfield side, he looked the perfect poacher to spearhead a promotion push last season. But he showed only flashes of that form as City fell short, scoring only once after February.

After taking a pay cut to stay, Boulding has spent the bulk of the current campaign on the bench with just 11 starts. He last scored at Lincoln in January.

Like Thorne, he did not begin a game after Taylor took over.

Meanwhile, Hull youngster Kendall will link up with City this week.

The 6ft 1in striker has been a regular in the reserves for his home-town club.

Taylor said: "Ryan is full of energy and will run all over the place. He puts defenders under pressure."

===========================

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/5060755.Daley_s_magic_boot_does_the_trick_for_City/


Daley's magic boot does the trick for City

7:00am Monday 15th March 2010

By Simon Parker

City 2 Aldershot 1

Omar Daley's belter may have clinched City another home win but it didn't earn him a day off.

While the rest of Saturday's side enjoy a bonus breather today, the Jamaican will be back at Valley Parade going through his paces.

Daley is still finding his fitness after nearly a year on the sidelines. So there is no extra time allowed to put his feet up.

He smiled: "I'm in every day working on getting fitter. I didn't have a day off last week either.

"Everyone else is off apart from me. But I don't mind too much!"

Peter Taylor got his first glimpse of what Daley is capable of with the sizzling 25-yarder that flew into the Aldershot net midway through the first half.

Not a bad impression to make on your first start for the new manager.

But there was only one man that Daley wanted to milk the moment with.

Damian Buck had been his regular companion through rehab since the physio's arrival last summer. So Daley made sure that he acknowledged that support by sprinting straight over to the bench after the ball hit the net.

Daley dedicated the goal to the fans but his celebrations were reserved for the physio.

Daley said: "I told him from day one that I promised I would come to him when I scored next.

"Damion's become my best mate in the club because he looks after me. The other players say he gives me more rubdowns than anybody!

"But we've been together that long since I got injured. Damo's a nice guy and a good physio and I'm so grateful to him for getting me back up and running 100 per cent."

Daley's recovery goes on, hence the reason for a solo session on the training ground this morning.

Taylor knows he has a match-winner in the ranks but there are no special rules. In the new manager's vision of drumming in team shape and discipline, Daley is expected to muck in just the same as the rest.

He added: "It's all different with the manager. He is trying to organise everything we do.

"He wants two banks of four and strikers can't stand upfield now and relax, they have to get back.

"Everyone wants to impress him and it's getting competitive every day in training.

"There are no guarantees. Just because I've scored doesn't mean I'm going to keep the shirt."

Taylor's methods are getting results – that's four wins in seven now since he assumed the hot-seat.

A quiet revolution is taking place. The old guard are becoming marginalised as the manager brings his own ideas – and players – to the fore.

His actions don't suggest someone just passing through. Surely it cannot be long before discussions open with the board to extend his stay beyond its current end-of-season limit.

City have even won both his home games – the last time they managed two in a row at Valley Parade was a year ago when Aldershot were demolished 5-0.

That scoreline was never going to happen again but the fact City clambered back from going an early goal down against a side that had beaten them 11 days earlier confirms the gradual progress being made.

Taylor got his response after Port Vale.

There was one other change from midweek as giant defender Luke Oliver made his debut at centre half.

Not surprisingly, he won pretty much every header going. He also got away with his one blunder of the day, diving in wrecklessly on Marvin Morgan, who could easily have gone down and won a penalty.

Instead Morgan kept his feet to set up fellow sub Marlon Jackson for a header that looked far harder to miss. Yet he managed it.

That was the only noteworthy action of the second half, other than Daley's comical yellow card for a tumble in the Aldershot box that Cristiano Ronaldo would have been ashamed of.

City were pushed back but coped well enough, without ever threatening to extend their slender advantage.

All the goals and the bulk of the excitement had come in the opening period.

Aldershot began on the front foot as City struggled to get near the ball. The visitors were afforded too much time, allowing them to pass at will – or at least as much as the bobbly surface would permit.

They needed only eight minutes to make all that possession count.

Matt Glennon was blamed by Taylor for Vale's winner and the keeper won't have been too happy with his part in the Aldershot goal either.

Nobody closed down Scott Donnelly but his shot should still have been held. Instead, Glennon pushed it out in the direction of Anthony Straker to net from a tight angle.

The fans weren't happy and neither was Taylor. But City's response was immediate. Flaky Venezuelan goalkeeper Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz escaped with a soft free-kick after being freaked out by Oliver's presence but then he was left clutching at thin air as James Hanson made it 11 for the season.

It came from a quality combination between the two City strikers. Hanson's flick-on sent Michael Flynn scurrying down the right and he checked inside Anthony Charles before supplying the perfect cross for the big man to bullet into the top corner.

Some cross, some spring from Hanson, some goal.

But that was just the warm-up for the main act eight minutes later.

Luke O'Brien bustled down the left flank to begin the danger. His cross was diverted out of the box by Aaron Brown and Daley seized on it, slipping inside Donnelly before sending a left-foot lash screaming past the keeper.

It was a strike worthy of winning any game. Thanks to Jackson's missed sitter 20 minutes from time, that proved to be the case.

Nobody was going to spoil Daley's day. Nor his team-mates' day off.

===========================

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/5062208.Meet_Peter_Taylor_s__other_half_/


Meet Peter Taylor's 'other half'

7:50am Tuesday 16th March 2010

By Simon Parker

Sky once mocked up a Mr & Mrs style head-to-head with Peter Taylor and Junior Lewis.

The light-hearted contest was to find out how much they really knew about each other.

Lewis didn't score many but then again the questions weren't strictly based on football.

When it comes to matters on the field, they have become the perfect match.

City are the EIGHTH club where the pair have worked together.

A relationship that began as manager and player at Dover Athletic 15 years ago has continued via Gillingham, Leicester, Brighton, Hull, Stevenage, Wycombe and now Valley Parade.

Lewis said: "When I was at Dover, I remember him recommending me for a trial at Watford. I knew then he could see the ability I had.

"Peter then went off to the England under-21s but when he came back to club management, he signed me again.

"I've worked with him at every level from the Conference right up to the Premier League and been lucky enough to get promotion at a lot of those clubs.

"I know how the manager works and how he likes things done from playing for him and working under him as a coach."

Taylor has stressed that the arrival of Lewis would not affect his confidence in Wayne Jacobs. The manager has already made it clear that, should he stay on next season, City's long-term number two would be offered the chance to keep his role as well.

Lewis also insists that he is no threat to Jacobs and has been grateful for his support since joining the club. He added: "I'm here as first-team coach to take training with the gaffer and Wayne.

"I'm going to help Wayne learn how the gaffer operates and he's been fantastic since I've been here. Wayne has welcomed me with open arms and we get on really well.

"He knows the place inside out as well as the players and obviously he knows football in this area.

"I'm learning all the time but all footballers will say that. Even the gaffer will say you never stopping learning, no matter what age you are."

One thing Jacobs didn't have to point out was the size of the club. Lewis is well aware of the potential.

"You only have to look at the following they get," he said. "And I know there is more support out there if we can progress in the next few years.

"You look at the following we took to Rotherham recently and the crowd for my first home game against Darlington. To get 11,500 against the team bottom of the league is fantastic.

"At the moment I'm here to the end of the season. It's the same position as Peter.

"I hope it will go on beyond that but we're just concentrating on getting as many results as we can.

"We want to have a strong finish and hopefully take that confidence into next season."

===========================


Taylor admits to being 'interested' in Hull job

6:30am Tuesday 16th March 2010

By Simon Parker

Peter Taylor does not expect to see his name in the hat for the vacant Hull job.

Taylor was an early 16/1 shot with the bookies to go back to the KC Stadium following Phil Brown's departure yesterday.

The Bantams boss laid the foundations for Hull's rise to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions and remains close to chairman Adam Pearson.

Taylor said: "People know my feelings about Hull City. It was an incredible four years there.

"Me being interested in Hull City, I think that's pretty obvious – but I don't think I'm a contender.

"I feel sorry for Phil because I think he's done a great job for them but I do understand maybe it's the last throw of the dice to try and keep them in the league.

"Sometimes a change of face all of a sudden lifts the club."

Taylor, who has won four of his seven games since succeeding Stuart McCall, is currently working on a short-term contract at Valley Parade until the end of the season.

He was due to watch Notts County, City's next home opponents, play Bournemouth last night.

Gary Megson and Alan Curbishley are the short-priced favourites to take over at Hull with former England coach and Tigers midfielder Steve McClaren also in the frame.

===========================

Kendall signs on 4 week loan

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~1994029,00.html?

From Sky Sports:
Bradford City have signed Ryan Kendall on loan from Hull City after Peter Thorne agreed to leave Valley Parade.

Kendall has yet to make a senior appearance for Premier League strugglers Hull and has been allowed to join Bradford for a month.

The young striker is set to go straight into Peter Taylor's squad for the weekend game against Hereford United and his arrival will compensate for the imminent departure of Thorne.
The veteran striker has agreed to an early cancellation of his contract, with the paperwork expected to be finalised later this week.

Thorne joined the Bantams from Norwich City in 2007, but he has struggled with injuries this season and has been restricted to just nine appearances.

The 36-year-old follows Michael and Rory Boulding in accepting a deal to terminate their Bradford contracts early.

===========================

REHMAN 'HUMBLED' BY COMMUNITY AWARD
Bradford skipper Zesh Rehman won the Professional Footballers Association's Player in the Community award for 2010 at Sunday's awards ceremony.

The 26-year-old Pakistan international, who has represented England at under-18, under-19 and under-20 level, received the award at a gala dinner at Grosvenor House, Park Lane in recognition of his work in the Asian community of Bradford.
Rehman said: "I'm very honoured to have won this award, I feel very humbled. But had I not won, I would have continued to work in the community because I believe in it strongly.

"Hopefully other clubs can start to look at Bradford and use them as a template and mirror what we do in their club.

"For me, football is the way of integrating the mainstream of society and if I want to try and help the next generation whether they're Asian, English or African to get involved in football - football is the perfect vehicle to make a difference, it's followed by everyone and is an ideal way to get kids to do something with themselves."

His influence as an Asian footballer is portrayed through such campaigns and helps raise children's aspirations showing children can achieve their dreams, regardless of their race. Zesh himself is clearly aware of what can be achieved, saying "Football is the perfect vehicle to bring people and communities together, it is all about integration."

Football League awards judge and former Bradford winger Peter Beagrie said: "Zesh is a great communicator, leader and role model. He's a national ambassador, comfortable being charged with the job of uniting a multi-racial community."

===========================

Media

Photos
http://www.theshots.co.uk/newspage.ink?nid=32425&newstype=n
http://www.theshots.co.uk/newspage.ink?nid=32426&newstype=n

Video
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_3/8567303.stm


===========================

L2 v Port Vale (a) L1-2 March 9th 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts


===========================

If ever there was a bogey team for Port Vale then it is City.
 
The Bantams have made the last 9 trips to Vale Park and have returned unbeaten. The last 4 trips have seen City take all three points and keep a clean sheet on every occasion.
 
City's last defeat at Vale Park was in December 1989 when they lost 3-2.




===========================

Bantams players incur Taylor's wrath

Peter Taylor ripped into under-performing City after they blew a lead
to lose at Port Vale.

Second-half goals from Marc Richards and Rob Taylor sunk the Bantams
after Robbie Threlfall's free-kick had blasted them in front.

Port Vale deserved to win. There were too many people in our side who
were five or six out of ten

Peter Taylor
It was a real anti-climax after the thrilling Yorkshire derby win over
Rotherham and Taylor was in no mood to defend his players.

He said: "That wasn't good enough on our part and we have got to be
honest about it.

"Port Vale deserved to win. There were too many people in our side
who were five or six out of ten.

"There might have been a few heavy legs but that's why we
deliberately didn't do anything with them in training on Monday
because of the amount of football and travelling that they've had.

"It's not an easy one to accept as a manager because I look at the
players and feel they can do a lot better than that."

Taylor was unhappy with both Vale goals. The first came from a mistake
by skipper Simon Ramsden and he felt Matt Glennon should have done
better with the long-range winner.

He added: "It's frustrating because the goals were very poor.

"Matty said there was a deflection for the second but, for me, from
that distance you should still be able to recover.

"There are loads of times when you don't play well and you're
winning but you've got to improve in the second half. We didn't do
that."

Taylor, who will watch the likes of Peter Thorneand James O'Brien in
the reserves' match against Huddersfield today, has no plans to add
to the five signings he has made.

And he has shot down suggestions that the chairmen have made more cash
available to him than they had for his predecessor Stuart McCall.

"I don't think that's the case.

"People don't realise we have got certain loan signings here that
we are not paying a penny for.

"It's called contacts and you speak to people for some favours."


===========================

L2 v Rotherham (a) W2-1 March 6th 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts



Next matches:
(A) Port Vale, Tuesday March 9, 2010. K.O. 745PM.
(H) Aldershot, Saturday March 13, 2010. K.O. 3:00PM.

===========================

Rotherham (0) 1 LeFondre pen 90+2.
Bradford C (0) 2 Flynn 60, Hanson 90+5.
Att: 4,185

Stats: Rotherham - Bradford C:
Possession: 55 - 45%
Shots on target: 5 - 4
Shots off target: 6 - 6
Fouls: 12 - 8
Corners: 6 - 9

Ref: Andy Haines (Tyne and Wear).
Yellow cards:
Rotherham: Fenton (41 min).
Bradford C: None

Rotherham: 1. Andy Warrington, 14. Mark Lynch, 6. Nick Fenton, 25. Pablo
Mills, 19. Gavin Gunning (71), 10. Nicky Law (65), 4. Danny Harrison, 23.
Joshua Walker, 15. Kevin Ellison, 9. Tom Pope (80), 39. Adam Le Fondre.
SUBS: 12. Marc Joseph, 21. Marcus Marshall (65), 30. Jamie Annerson (GK), 3.
Jamie Green (71), 20. Ryan Taylor (80), 7. Michael Cummins, 17. Gary
Roberts.

Bradford C: 40. Matthew Glennon, 2. Simon Ramsden, 6. Matthew Clarke, 12.
Steve Williams, 28. Robbie Threlfall, 9. Gareth Evans, 8. Lee Bullock, 33.
Adam Bolder, 3. Luke O'Brien, 17. James Hanson, 4. Michael Flynn.
SUBS: 13. Jon McLaughlin (GK), 16. Jonathan Bateson, 7. Omar Daley, 25.
Steve O'Leary, 14. Michael Boulding, 29. Mark McCammon, 32. Luke Oliver.




===========================

Rotherham (0) 1 LeFondre pen 90+2.
Bradford C (0) 2 Flynn 60, Hanson 90+5.
Att: 4,185

By Simon Parker (T&A)

James Hanson's stoppage-time header earned City a dramatic derby win over
Rotherham.

Hanson powered home Simon Ramsden's corner - just seconds after the home
side had levelled with an Adam Le Fondre penalty.

Earlier, Michael Flynn's first goal since December had put Peter Taylor's
side on the way to a third win in four games.

City missed two great chances in the opening 15 minutes.

Matt Glennon denied former Bantam Nicky Law's half-volley before the
visitors twice should have taken the lead.

The first opportunity fell to Steve Williams who caught keeper Andy
Warrington in no man's land but got too much on the header.

And James Hanson could have fired City in front but blazed over from ten
yards when he should have hit the target.

But City escaped when Flynn cleared Tom Pope's header off the line and
Rotherham skipper Nick Fenton nodded the loose ball back against the bar.

City started the second half brightly and were rewarded with a well-worked
goal on the hour.

Hanson's flick released Gareth Evans on the right and his cutback was
sweetly swept home first time by Flynn.

Again City were saved by a goal-line clearance as Robbie Threlfall thwarted
Millers substitute Marcus Marshall.

And Rotherham blew it again in the closing minutes when Marshall set up Ryan
Harrison for a sitter - which he thumped over.

But the game exploded into life in stoppage time.

First Le Fondre levelled with a spot-kick after Williams had handled in the
corner of the box. Then, with the home fans still taunting the City section,
Hanson had the final say with the last touch of the match.



===========================

Hanson benefiting from little and large combination up front
4:50pm Monday 8th March 2010
By Simon Parker

Michael Flynn is happy to front up for City again at Port Vale tomorrow night.

Flynn is relishing the new attacking role he has been handed in the last two away wins over Rochdale and Rotherham.

The Welsh firebrand, who netted his seventh goal of the season at the Don Valley Stadium, reckons he sees more of the ball when he is pushed forward to accompany James Hanson.

Flynn said: "This league isn't always the best for midfielders because you can get missed out. At Aldershot last week, Bully (Lee Bullock) and I did a lot of running without the ball.

"Every player wants to be involved and I think being up front at the moment means you can get more into it.

"I will play anywhere for Bradford City if the manager asks me to but I'm really enjoying the role, chasing balls down and trying to get on the end of James's flicks.

"I've played up front now and again in the past. Paul Jewell sometimes put me on as a sub up there (for Wigan) to close a game out. He knew I'd work hard and said I'd have chased waste paper given the chance!

"Stan Ternent also played me as a striker for Huddersfield away to Swindon last season, so it's not something totally new."

Hanson's late header made it three victories in four as City go to Vale Park, a ground where they have won the last four visits without conceding a goal.

Flynn believes Hanson has made big strides this season and will get even better. A Championship club were monitoring the former Guiseley centre forward in January and his new strike partner expects more transfer interest in the summer.

Flynn said: "There's definitely going to be a few clubs watching him now. Targetmen are hard to come by and his size and ability in the air will get him noticed.

"James has got a lot to learn, coming from non-league, but scoring ten goals in his first season is a good achievement and he'll get more."

Despite the recent upturn, City have been cemented in 16th place. Another positive result could see them move up a position for the first time in two months.

They are still 12 points off the last play-off spot and Flynn admitted: "The first thing you do on the bus is check the league table – and see that we haven't moved.

"It's so frustrating when you think of the points we should have picked up. We ought to be on 51 or 52 now and then we'd be in with a right chance.

"While it's still mathematically possible we will give it all we've got but it's obviously a really long shot.

"The gaffer has come in and made us a stronger unit and we've got to keep going. Port Vale have got a good manager in Micky Adams with a decent track record as well.

"They keep winning one then losing the next and they lost Saturday, so I hope that sequence of results has ended. It's definitely somewhere we can go and win."


===========================

Thorne advice gives Bantams ace confidence to make impact
7:30am Monday 8th March 2010
By Simon Parker

Head boy James Hanson today thanked Peter Thorne for making him a stronger striker.

Hanson was City's last-gasp hero with a thumping header to beat Rotherham in a dramatic Yorkshire derby.

The stoppage-time stunner, just a minute after the Millers had equalised, was his tenth goal of the season – and followed a big miss early on.

Hanson has fluffed similar good chances in recent games but refuses to let it affect him and he praised the experienced Thorne for building up that mental toughness.

"I volleyed over the bar from six yards out but I don't particularly mind missing chances as long as other ones keep coming," he said.

"I'm always confident of scoring and luckily I got that late header and stuck it away.

"Having people like Thorney round the place has really helped. He's been telling me to keep my head up.

"He's lost count of the number of chances he's missed like that but says you'll be stronger for it."

City, who had led through Michael Flynn, cleared two off the line before Adam Le Fondre's spot-kick seemed to have denied them after Steve Williams handled in the box.

But City's improving prowess from corners got its reward with virtually the last touch of the game as Hanson converted Simon Ramsden's cross.

Delighted boss Peter Taylor said: "The players know we're looking quite strong at corners.

"There haven't been many times when we haven't tested the opposition from them, so we always fancy our chances a little bit.

"James keeps missing the easy ones and then he gets a great header. It was a brilliant goal.

"I think it would have been a touch harsh if we hadn't won the game. We played some good football, showed great spirit and created more chances over the 90 minutes."

Hanson added: "We've worked on corners in training and looked more dangerous. The gaffer's said we've got the height in there so put the ball in good areas.

"As long as it gets above the first man, we've always got a chance."

===========================

===========================

If you can't wait for next season...

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~1987885,00.html?

===========================

L2 v Aldershot (a) L0-1 March 2nd 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts


===========================
Aldershot: Henderson ,Herd ,Charles ,Winfield (Blackburn ,22 ) ,Straker (Spencer ,77 ) ,Harding ,Bozanic ,Donnelly ,Hudson (Jackson ,84 ) ,Sandell ,Hylton
Subs not used: Soares,Riza,Chalmers,Jaimez-Ruiz,

Bradford: Glennon ,Ramsden ,Clarke ,Luke O'Brien (Daley ,58 ) ,Threlfall ,Williams ,Flynn ,Bullock ,Evans (Grant ,73 ) ,McCammon (O'Neill ,58 ) ,Hanson
Subs not used Michael Boulding,Thorne,McLaughlan,Bateson,

Bookings: Clarke ,Daley ,Hanson (Bradford)

Attendance: 2311

Referee: P Crossley (Kent)

TEAM STATS
Aldershot    Bradford
7(4)    Shots (on Goal)    6(1)
5    Fouls    9
7    Corner Kicks    10
2    Offsides    1
48%    Time of Poss.    52%
0    Yellow Cards    3
0    Red Cards    0
2    Saves    4



===========================

T&A

Another Tayl of woe at the Wreckreation Ground
6:50am Wednesday 3rd March 2010
By Simon Parker

Aldershot 1 City 0

City's mini-revival was Shot down in Hampshire last night to extend Peter Taylor's Recreation Ground jinx.

Taylor had been beaten here in the previous two seasons with Wycombe and Stevenage.

And he collected an unwanted hat-trick as his new club failed to build on their back-to-back wins.

Although City can play a lot better, they were still kicking themselves for missing several chances to get

something from the game.

Buoyed by the confidence of successive victories, Taylor had named an unchanged side for the first time, with

non-contract striker Gavin Grant added to the bench at a ground where he had scored on his last two non-league

visits with Taylor's Stevenage and Grays.

The game began in unremarkable fashion. Both sides forced a couple of corners in the opening ten minutes without

troubling either keeper.

Aldershot midfielder Ben Harding tried to emulate the long-range rockets from last season's fixture but sent the

ball towering over the bar.

But there was a flutter in City's defence after Gareth Evans fouled Andy Sandell near the touchline. Scott

Donnelly's free-kick beat its intended target and Matt Glennon before bouncing wide.

Aldershot then went route one, keeper Stephen Henderson launching a booming clearance towards Kirk Hudson. He held

off Luke O'Brien on the edge of the box and found Donnelly but Robbie Threlfall was across to snuff out the danger.

The home side were enjoying the bulk of the play but City kept numbers behind the ball. The flat atmosphere wasn't

helped by injury stoppages for Mark McCammon and then Shots defender Dave Winfield, who had to limp off.

With City looking to hit the big two up front, the lofty Winfield's absence played into their hands and James

Hanson won his first aerial tussle with substitute Chris Blackburn.

And Hanson had City's first chance from a Simon Ramsden corner, Henderson needing two grabs to hold his header

before Evans could pounce.

The match was turning into a corner-fest – with ten clocked up in just over half an hour – but it lacked any real

quality.

City weren't holding on to the ball well enough and Aldershot's main tactic seemed to focus on Henderson hoofing

the ball 70 yards at the earliest opportunity.

They strung a better move together as Hudson cut inside Threlfall but he slipped while shooting and Glennon had an

easy save.

Corners remained City's most likely route to an opening goal, with the frontmen proving a handful. Another good

delivery from Ramsden was met by a combination of Hanson and Steve Williams but McCammon was unable to direct his

shot on the turn from close range and the chance dribbled away.

Henderson, under pressure on the byline from O'Brien, put himself in trouble with a scuffed clearance that landed

at Flynn's feet. But Anthony Charles got in a crucial block to save his keeper's bacon.

Aldershot shouted in vain for a penalty as half-time approached. Danny Hylton appeared to be nudged over by Matt

Clarke as they chased another long ball but referee Phil Crossley was unimpressed.

In a dour opening half, City had kept it pretty tight against the third top home scorers in the division. Aldershot

had enjoyed the bulk of possession and played the better football yet City had looked the more likely to break the

deadlock.

McCammon appeared after the break with a bandage round his head following his early knock. It was reminiscent of

Graeme Lee at Aldershot last season.

Aldershot had a chance four minutes in but Harding skied it into the trees behind the open end of the ground. But

that lifted the home side and Hudson was almost played in from a slick passing exchange down the right flank.

City responded as Flynn picked out Evans in space to cross. His ball flew behind Hanson but bounced back to him off

Ben Herd's shin.

The goal opened up briefly but Blackburn slid in with a vital interception to smother the shot wide.

But the stalemate was ended after 54 minutes – and City paid the price for not clearing their lines.

The danger seemed to have passed when Ramsden headed a corner away but Donnelly, who had taken it, fired the ball

back in straight to Charles and the centre half had room to control and drive his fourth goal of the season past

Glennon.

Taylor reacted to the setback with a double change, bringing on Omar Daley and Steve O'Leary for O'Brien and

McCammon. Flynn was pushed further forward as City switched to 4-3-3.

The heat was starting to rise and Hanson was booked for going in late on the keeper.

It was not happening for City and Flynn headed over harmlessly. Then Daley set off on an angled charge into the

Aldershot box but his cross sailed behind.

The Jamaican got a stern warning for clattering Herd but there was no escaping a card when he did it again on the

other side two minutes later.

Aldershot had upped their game and a thunderbolt from Hylton was palmed up in the air by Glennon, who recovered in

time to deal with the rebound.

Grant came on for his debut with 17 minutes left as Clarke received City's third booking for clattering Hylton.

Aldershot should have sealed the points when Glennon parried Harding's header. The ball fell for newly-arrived

substitute Damian Spencer eight yards out but he thrashed wildly over.

City launched a late rally and subs O'Leary and Daley combined to tee up Threlfall but he screwed his shot across

goal.

And they were almost gifted an equaliser in stoppage time when Herd headed Daley's through ball past his own keeper

but the wrong side of the post.

Then O'Leary's volley fell conveniently for Lee Bullock, who crashed it over from ten yards. It was a big miss and

summed up City's frustrating evening.

===========================

T&A

Taylor dwells on positives after defeat
7:00am Wednesday 3rd March 2010
By Simon Parker

Peter Taylor believes City are heading the right way despite last night's setback at Aldershot.

The two-match winning run was ended with a 1-0 loss at the Recreation Ground. Defender Anthony Charles notched the

only goal before Lee Bullock missed a great chance to equalise deep into stoppage time.

But Taylor, who is looking for another loan addition ahead of Saturday's clash with Rotherham, saw more reasons for

optimism.

He said: "Of course it's disappointing after the last couple of results. You'd love to win every match and go on

fantastic runs but we have got to be realistic on that.

"There were still good things – and some poor ones as well – and overall I feel we are still getting slightly

better.

"We can improve in certain areas. Aldershot had a bit more patience on the ball and I felt we were looking for

longer passes and 'worldy' balls.

"That's probably down to confidence and the players that we've got here.

"We can play better but we still probably created as many chances as the opposition, if not more. We looked very

strong on set-pieces and our corners were good."

But Taylor was unhappy with the 54th-minute goal as City half-cleared a corner and then left centre half Charles

unmarked when the ball came back into the penalty area.

Striker Gavin Grant made his first appearance from the bench and produced a couple of lively runs.

Taylor added: "He's lively and decent, although he's not ready for a full game yet.

"Gavin got a bit of a whack on his ankle at the end but hopefully it's not too bad.

"Mark McCammon also had four stitches in his head but he'll be okay."

===========================

http://www.theshots.co.uk/newspage.ink?nid=32366&newstype=i

Boss - Bradford Reaction

Shots boss Kevin Dillon spoke to The Shots Online following his side's 1-0 victory over Bradford City on Tuesday

evening saying: "It was a very good performance, the team were together from Danny [Hylton] up front who chased

everything, the midfield looked very competitive tonight and we had the width and Kirk [Hudson] caused a lot of

problems.

"We had the back four who were nice and solid and the keeper [Stephen Henderson] was terrific tonight and he got a

great reception at half-time and I'm pleased with the crowd tonight and the reaction we got.

"I thought he made a couple of good saves and he took one in his head for the team and one in his stomach and a

couple of others. His manager was here tonight and I'm sure he was pleased with his performance.

"At the end there we kept the ball down there [in the opposition's corner] for about three minutes and the idiot

that's got up [in the crowd] who started shouting at Donnelly; it's ridiculous; what does he want?

"There's two minutes to go, I'm screaming at Donnelly to keep it in the corner because we've won the game and

perhaps he shouldn't have reacted the way that he has done, but I might have done the same if I'd been in his

situation because he never stopped - he kept going on and on and on and you don't need people like that, it's not

necessary.

"I was telling the lads after the game, I sensed a different mentality on Saturday - even on Friday on the bus

going up to the game and then tonight I thought everybody was together again - the dressing room was solid, they

went out as a team and stuck together as a team and came in as a team and that was nice to see."

===========================


from wycombe web site:

OLIVER JOINS TAYLOR AT BRADFORD (1 month loan)

Posted on: Wed 03 Mar 2010
*Luke Oliver has today joined Peter Taylor's Bradford City on a
one-month loan deal.

*The move reunites the centre-back with the manager that brought him to
Adams Park in January 2009 on a free transfer from Blue Square Premier
side Stevenage Borough.

However, Oliver has struggled to hold down a regular starting spot since
Gary Waddock took charge in October and has moved to Valley Parade in
search of first team football.

The 26-year-old will remain with the League Two side until Saturday 3rd
April.

---

from Bucks free press

Wycombe WANDERERS defender Luke Oliver has joined Bradford City on loan

He rejoins Peter Taylor the manager who signed him for Wycombe.

The 6ft 7ins defender has lost his place in the Wanderers' back four
recently with new signings Alan Bennett and Adam Hinselwood being chosen
to partner Chris Westwood instead.

---

PETER TAYLOR HAS HIGH HOPES FOR NEW SIGNING OLIVER
7:00am Thursday 4th March 2010

By Simon Parker (T&A)

Luke Oliver is ready to make a big impression on City after becoming Peter
Taylor's fourth signing.

The Wycombe centre half, who today rejoined his old boss on a month's loan,
stands at a towering 6ft 7in.

He is very tall and very strong in the air. I brought him in at Wycombe last
season and he helped to clinch promotion

Like Gavin Grant, Oliver has played for Taylor at both Stevenage and
Wycombe. And the Bantams boss is confident he will provide a real presence
at the back.

Taylor said: "He is very tall and very strong in the air. I brought him in
at Wycombe last season and he played a few games for us, helping to clinch
promotion.

"He didn't start the first game this season but after that got in the team
quite early. But he's been left out for the last few weeks so it's a chance
for him to get back playing again.

"With Zesh (Rehman) having a calf injury at the moment, I wanted a little
bit of cover defensively. And I'm always out to push everyone I can and
hopefully Luke coming here will do that."

Oliver, 27, is in his second spell in league football. Having been released
by Wycombe in 2004, he played for Woking and Stevenage before Taylor took
him back to Adams Park last January as cover when skipper Mike Williamson
was sold to Watford.

He played eight games during the run-in, though only once from the start.
His main role was coming off the bench to close down a game if opponents
posed a danger in the air.

Oliver, who is out of contract in the summer, has been more involved this
term in League One with 21 starts for the struggling Chairboys. But he has
not featured in the last three games since a 1-1 draw with Brentford on
February 13 and played for Wycombe's reserves against Ipswich on Tuesday.

The Londoner will train with his new team-mates at Apperley Bridge this
morning and is set to go straight in against Rotherham on Saturday.

Oliver follows Grant, Mark McCammon and Robbie Threlfall as Taylor continues
to shake up the squad he inherited just over a fortnight ago.

===========================

NEILSON LOANED TO CAMBRIDGE UNITED
11:24am Thursday 4th March 2010

By Simon Parker (T&A)

Bradford City winger Scott Neilson has joined Cambridge United on a month's
loan.

The 22-year-old, signed in August from Cambridge City to replace Joe
Colbeck, has not featured in the last three games under Peter Taylor.

Cambridge United boss Martin Ling said: "He's been playing League Two
football this season and due to the change in manager has become available."

Neilson is likely to make his Conference debut at Barrow on Saturday.

===========================

Midfielder Adam Bolder joins the Bantams from League 1 side Millwall for an
initial one month period.

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~1984562,00.html

===========================

L2 v Darlington (h) W1-0 Feb 28th 2010

Bradford City facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/thebantams?ref=ts


Next matches:
(A) Aldershot, Tuesday March 2, 2010. K.O. 7:45PM
(A) Rotherham, Saturday March 5, 2010. K.O. 3:00PM
(A) Port Vale, Tuesday March 9, 2010. K.O. 7:45PM.
===========================



Stats: Bradford C - Darlington
Possession: 48 - 52%
Shots on target: 4 - 5
Shots off target: 12 - 4
Fouls: 8 - 11
Corners: 4 - 7

Ref: Karl Evans (Greater Manchester).
Yellow cards:
Bradford C: Flynn (15 min), McCammon (40).
Darlington: Diop (29), Gray (42).

Bradford C: 40. Matthew Glennon, 2. Simon Ramsden, 6. Matthew Clarke, 12.
Steve Williams, 28. Robbie Threlfall, 8. Lee Bullock, 4. Michael Flynn, 3.
Luke O'Brien (71), 9. Gareth Evans, 29. Mark McCammon (62), 17. James
Hanson.
SUBS: 13. Jon McLaughlin (GK), 7. Omar Daley (71), 10. Peter Thorne, 14.
Michael Boulding (62), 16. Jonathan Bateson, 24. Louis Horne, 25. Steve
O'Leary.

Darlington: 23. Shane Redmond, 22. Simon Madden, 6. Ian Miller, 33. Richie
Byrne (47), 20. Stuart Giddings, 24. Nathan Mulligan (57), 11. Gary Dempsey,
28. Gareth Waite, 12. Josh Gray (83), 30. Mor Diop, 19. Tadgh Purcell.
SUBS: 13. Nick Liversedge (GK), 4. Alan White (47), 14. Gary Smith, 15.
Curtis Main (83), 16. Danny Groves, 27. John McReady, 29. Patrick Deane
(57).



===========================

Coca-Cola League Two
Bradford C (1) 1 Hanson 26
Darlington (0) 0
Att: 11,532

By Simon Parker

Mark McCammon was oblivious to the significance of the achievement.

As far as he was concerned, the on-loan striker had just done his bit to help pocket three points against the worst team in the division.

McCammon knew nothing of how much a win at Valley Parade meant to City.

"I'm really surprised at that," admitted the Gillingham targetman when informed of the four-month home hoodoo. "I didn't realise they'd had a run like that.

"But maybe that's a good sign that I didn't know. From what I've seen, there's a good togetherness in the camp and everyone's a bit more confident now."

So maybe, as Peter Taylor has been stressing, winning at home isn't such a big deal. McCammon's ignorance to the statistics showed that City's awful run of form in front of their own fans was not a major motivational tool of the manager's in the build-up.

The feelgood factor engendered by the eye-catching victory at Rochdale had overcome any fears of struggling to put their own house in order again.

All right, there were some nervy moments when we all wanted to look away – the split-second when the ball bounced up against Matt Clarke's hand in the penalty area being one of them.

But referee Karl Evans, a stickler for fussiness with most other decisions, gave nothing. That luck which Stuart McCall had wished for with ever-increasing desperation was there for all to see – all, except, Mr Evans and his assistants.

City did enough to win – and collect their second double of the season – though nobody was hanging out the celebration bunting. But given the previous eight Valley Parade results, a win's a win however ordinary.

And Taylor's decision to field a large-and-large front pair by pitting McCammon alongside James Hanson looked a good one.

Most expected McCammon's arrival at Apperley Bridge the day before would give Hanson the breather he has been needing in recent weeks.

Instead the new guy, admittedly rusty after three months without a start, shared the load with City's top scorer, who looked a lot brighter for it. For once, not everything in the air had to go through Hanson.

One training session and an hour's game-play is hardly the basis of a long-standing relationship. But McCammon, who had also denied any knowledge of Rotherham's reported interest, can see positive early signs ahead of the rush of matches this month.

He said: "I wasn't aware of how good Hanson was in the air. He's very strong and can hold the ball up well.

"No defender will like to play against us with our physical presence and hopefully we'll work on getting a bit more understanding as the games go on."

Taylor had praised Hanson's refusal to let his head drop when things go wrong. In the last two games, the big man has fluffed superb scoring chances – but still bounced back to have an assist in Gareth Evans' cracking result-sealer at Spotland.

Again on Saturday, Hanson rode early adversity to display a mental toughness that is admirable for someone who has been in the professional game for less than a season.

McCammon had already gone close with two ricochets as City made a fast start.

Richie Byrne slipped over trying to deal with a cross which took the striker by surprise in front of goal. Then he almost managed to divert a ball inside the near post with his right knee.

As the visitors wobbled, Michael Flynn sent Hanson bursting clear after ten minutes. It was a three-on-three break and a goal was surely on the cards this time; instead his touch was far too heavy and Darlo frantically slammed the door back shut.

Others might have drifted out of play after such a setback but Hanson showed again that he is made of sterner stuff and set about creating and finishing the game's decisive moment.

It was his well-guided pass that released Evans on the right wing – and his head that met the perfect cross and bulleted it beyond Shane Redmond.

A well-executed goal – even more so considering the heavy state of the pitch, which gets boggier week on week.

City still tried to play the ball around, with Flynn and Lee Bullock the fulcrum in midfield and Evans clearly relishing the freedom of his new role out wide.

The goal was not the only decent cross he whipped in during a first half which should have seen City home and hosed. Left back Robbie Threlfall, too, repeated the quality of set-piece delivery from his Rochdale debut and Clarke should have buried his free-kick just before the break.

Instead the scoreline remained close enough to keep Darlington interested and their own belief grew as City dropped off.

Matt Glennon denied Josh Gray and needed a couple of grabs at Gary Dempsey's 25-yard volley, while the defence had to be on their guard to negotiate a couple of awkward crosses in the six-yard box.

On came Michael Boulding and Omar Daley as City finally wrestled back control. McCammon's hour of hard toil finished with a fat lip from a whack by centre half Alan White.

"He looked like he'd taken a right-hander from Sonny Liston," laughed Taylor afterwards, "but that's showing my age there!"

City could have extended their advantage. Evans was denied by a double block – the second an outstanding save from Redmond – and Boulding twice missed chances, including a gilt-edged one in stoppage time.

But that first home win since the clocks went back had been secured. Now to start moving forward again and making up for lost time.

===========================

Photos

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~1979830,00.html

video
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_3/8542160.stm

===========================

McCammon will be on best behaviour at Aldershot

By Simon Parker »

Mark McCammon will have a point to prove at the Recreation Ground.

The big forward's last visit to Aldershot ended after just 13 minutes when he was sent off for Gillingham.

McCammon was shown a straight red for his challenge on keeper Nikki Bull and later lost an appeal against a three-match ban.

Play-off winners Gillingham and Peter Taylor's Wycombe were both beaten in Hampshire last season and Aldershot remain a tough nut to crack on their own patch.

Only Bury and Dagenham have won there this time, with the Daggers coming from two down to triumph a week ago.

Kevin Dillon's side recovered quickly though with an impressive win at Chesterfield at the weekend to remain three points off seventh spot.

Dillon said: "It is really tight in this division and I am still hoping to strengthen the squad between now and the end of the loan deadline.

"The players here are the reason why we are in the position we are in but it is about being realistic.

"We have half a chance of making the play-offs but I will say again that if we finish in the top ten then we have done well."

Dillon has recruited two new strikers – Omer Riza, who had been released by Shrewsbury, and former Cheltenham and Brentford targetman Damian Spencer. He has joined the Shots on loan from Kettering for the rest of the season.

With Marvin Morgan still struggling with a back strain, Dillon is likely to keep the same line-up that won at Saltergate.

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Lucky for us, Taylor's arrival has worked wonders
7:00pm Monday 1st March 2010

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By Simon Parker »

Matt Glennon believes that fortune is finally smiling on City.

Successive wins have lifted spirits ahead of tomorrow night's tricky trip to Aldershot.

Glennon has acknowledged the impetus that Peter Taylor's arrival has given City - and the luck that is starting to go their way.

The keeper said: "I noticed that on Saturday when Clarkey (Matt Clarke) handled in the box.

"The first couple of weeks I came to the club, the referee would have spotted that and we'd have drawn a game that we should have won.

"It was like that with the penalty at Bury in my first game. The guy obviously bought it and the referee gave them the decision but against Darlington we got that break at last.

"Football is a fantastic game to be in when you're winning. It keeps a great feeling around the club.

"The fans sing more from the start and we enjoy the games more.

"It's a long way off to get to the play-offs – that would be a massive ask – but although we're not in the top half of the table, everyone feels so much better if you are winning."

Taylor prides his teams on being tough to break down. And Glennon, fresh from his second clean sheet in City colours, reckons they have tightened up.

He said: "In the last five games, apart from Accrington, we've not given too much away. I've had a lot of work to do but not with shot-stopping.

"We're keeping a good line and playing really well at the back.

"I've only played eight games now in a year so I'm still getting my feet back under the table but I'm feeling better with each week.

"Accrington was a very poor game but I thought we were fantastic at Rochdale. It's been a good week since and everyone's a lot more upbeat.

"I had a good feeling we would beat Darlington, though I thought it would have been 3-0 or 4-0. But I'll take the three points and a clean sheet any day."

Taylor's input has been limited because of the congested fixture schedule but Glennon, who played for him at Hull, has noticed a few tweaks.

"It's difficult for him to get too many of his ideas across when we are playing every Saturday and Tuesday because you can't get long training sessions in but he's starting to explain how he wants us to play and we're looking better for it.

"It's slightly different from the last manager and at the moment it's working. All systems are great when you're winning."

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T&A Friday

By Simon Parker »

For Peter Taylor, there was always something missing at Wycombe.

He enjoyed the challenge and success of leading the Chairboys out of League Two last season.

If you want to go and play in front of 3,000 people, then you're not as ambitious as you should be

But that extra ingredient was lacking.

The impact off the field never changed.

In a ground that only holds 10,000, attendances hovered around half of that.

"We felt we improved the team but couldn't do that with the crowd," Taylor admitted. "Here it's very different."

Taylor will this afternoon get his first experience of the big-crowd scenario that was such a persuasive factor in

taking the City job for the rest of the season.

At his unveiling press conference, he waxed lyrical about the potential within. He talked about Wycombe's unbeaten

18-game start last year and wondered how a similar run with the Bantams would have the place packed to the rafters.

For all the impressive work put in at Rochdale on Tuesday, such a spectacular charge remains in the realms of

fantasy for now.

Taylor's immediate task is engineering ONE win in front of the home supporters.

Whipping boys Darlington would seem purpose-built for the task but then this is City at Valley Parade; nothing will

be taken for granted.

But Taylor has no time for talk of a fear factor from playing at home. He doesn't understand anyone whose game may

be inhibited by the grandiose surroundings.

"I want players to realise they are representing a very good club. If you get support like that, you are very

lucky.

"The team should look forward to it and be confident of playing in front of a crowd that size. That's the beauty of

Bradford City.

"If you want to go and play in front of 3,000 people, then you're not as ambitious as you should be."

The feelgood factor returned to the training ground after that unexpected success at Spotland.

There was more fun when the Sky cameras turned up at Apperley Bridge on Thursday to film the players taking the

"crossbar challenge" for next Saturday's edition of Soccer AM.

But there is a real bar to be cleared tomorrow.

Taylor expects to enjoy his first home win. Then he'll want to know what all the fuss was about.

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Posted on: Fri 26 Feb 2010
Following their superb victory over table toppers Rochdale, the
Bantams have been awarded the F&C Investments Performance of the Week
Award.

The League Managers Association five-man Performance of the Week
panel, comprising LMA Chairman Howard Wilkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson,
Joe Royle, Dave Bassett and Barry Fry, were in agreement that this
week's award should go to City following their excellent result
against high flying Rochdale in Coca-Cola League Two on Tuesday night.

City had travelled to Spotland as heavy underdogs, but returned back
to Valley Parade with a superb three points in the bag after a
brilliant performance.

Peter Taylor received a specially engraved crystal football in a
presentation on Friday, which will be screened on Sky Sports' Gillette
Soccer Saturday this Saturday (27 February).

The award is the Bantams first Performance of the Week Award this
season and it has come in only Taylor's second game in charge.

Following a bright start for Taylor's men, Matthew Clarke opened the
scoring for Bradford at Rochdale before Chris Dagnall leveled for the
home side on the stroke of half time.

City didn't let Dagnall's equaliser get the better of them though, as
Robbie Threlfall and Gareth Evans each scored stunning goals late on
to secure Bradford's shock win over the Coca-Cola League 2 leaders.

After the match, manager Peter Taylor was delighted with the
performance and result;

"I think the players put in a brilliant performance. They all worked
very hard for each other, chased lost causes and were together all
night.

"We were very bad on Saturday, but great tonight. If I'm honest after
Saturday I didn't think the players could perform like that but I'm
delighted they have done it and they deserve to be smiling again.

"We changed the shape for this game and I think it served the players
much better. They enjoyed playing in a more 4-4-2 better and I don't
think we'll change much for the weekend."

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 I nearly took my £1m out of City after yob fans attacked me

Bradford City's joint-chairman, Mark Lawn, today revealed he
considered pulling out of the club after his car was attacked by fans.

The aerial on his Bentley was snapped off and the side panels kicked
as he tried to leave the car park at Accrington where the team lost
last week.

Mr Lawn will ban the culprits from Valley Parade for life if he can
identify them.

But he admits the incident left him shaken – and seriously
questioning his involvement at the club.

Mr Lawn said: "The general abuse shocked me and I won't stand for
it. It's more than out of order. I talked to Julian (Rhodes) the
following day and said that I felt like taking the loan back. Then
Bradford City would be in administration – it's as simple as that.

"We have all these wonderful fans but there are always some who want
me out. But what would they do then?

"If I took my £1 million loan back, what do they think is going to
happen to the football club?

"Never mind my share investment capital, without that loan the club
would not exist."

Mr Lawn had arrived late at the Crown Ground because he was looking at
houses for new boss Peter Taylor. He was parked in a spot blocking
other cars and was therefore asked to leave five minutes early.

But as he moved off, he was targeted by a group of angry City
supporters.

He added: "One of them broke the aerial and another was kicking the
side of the car. Then one started smashing on the window and screaming
abuse at me.

"They were obviously frustrated and I will never stop any fan from
voicing their opinion. But do it in a sensible and adult manner.

"I'm a fan like them and I've two million more reasons to be
frustrated. But I don't go round kicking cars – what is the thought
process of these people?

"If the louts who did this don't come to me and explain their
actions then I will ban them from the club. And they will be banned
for life.

"I also intend to prosecute for criminal damage. I won't stand for
this sort of behaviour."

Mr Lawn, currently away for a few days, said he was quite happy to
meet disgruntled supporters at the club and discuss any issues they
have.

He said: "We have a procedure in place. If they write a letter to me
I will ask if they want to come in and talk personally.

"Then they will be given a copy of the report from that meeting and
what we have agreed to. I've had two fans who have done that recently.

"I'm not bothered if people don't like me. But I won't put up
with the thuggish behaviour I suffered last week.

"I've calmed down since but I'm still very angry. I won't take
abusing me, my family or my car. What are they hoping to achieve by
trying to drive me out?

"It took Julian two and a half years to coax me into the club and
I'm claret and amber when you cut me in half.

"If they think there's anybody else out there willing to put money
in, they've got a long wait."

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Brandon? A saga in the making?

Quote "Has anyone else heard that Brandon's contract has been paid up and he has left the club?"

Reply from Mike harrison (City gent)

"This would not surprise me as the talk amongst the press box last Tuesday evening at Rochdale was that Lawn had

said to one of those present that he'll never play for City again.
 
I chatted again to Stuart (McCall) last Thursday about it and he told me about how it was Lawn who drew up

Brandon's contract whilst he was away on holiday and our joint chairman apparently scored a spectacular own goal by

all accounts. Perhaps if Brandon goes I might be free to divulge what Stuart told me, but whilst he is still at

City it wouldn't be right of me to do so. Stuart did say that he play him in his last few matches in order to try

and get another club to come in and take him on loan, but there were no takers.
 
I also heard from another source that Brandon was very down about his situation at City and was looking to get

away. So if the club has come to an agreement to pay up his contract early he's free to try and find another club

now rather than sit out the rest of the season in the reserves."



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