NPower League Two
Bradford C (1) 1 Davies 43
Burton Alb. (0) 1 Palmer 85
Att: 9,744
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http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
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"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
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BBC highlights (uk only)
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City goal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sADrH148mAA&context=C3667090ADOEgsToPDskKR2OLQJZEnvvU-A82xy9zu
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
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Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Bradford C - Burton
Possession: 57 - 43%
Shots on target: 3 - 1
Shots off target: 7 - 4
Fouls: 16 - 14
Corners: 7 - 8
Ref: Lee Collins (Woking).
Yellow cards:
Bradford C: Ravenhill (29 min).
Burton: Parks (5 min), Stanton (8 min).
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 22. Lee Bullock, 38. Andrew
Davies, 36. Marcel Seip, 39. Craig Fagan, 14. Richard Ravenhill, 8. Ritchie
Jones, 26. Andy Haworth, 21. Nahki Wells (72), 9. James Hanson.
SUBS: 34. Matt Duke (GK), 10. Ross Hannah, 11. Deane Smalley (72), 15.
Charlie Taylor, 16. Chris Mitchell.
BURTON: 23. Ross Atkins, 2. Callum Driver, 4. Nathan Stanton, 15. Ryan
Austin, 16. Tom Parkes, 19. Jacques Maghoma, 26. Adam Bolder, 6. John
McGrath (78), 13. Cleveland Taylor (73), 9. Justin Richards (61), 10. Calvin
Zola.
SUBS: 1. Kevin Poole (GK), 8. Andrew Corbett, 11. Chris Palmer (73), 12. Adi
Yussuf (61), 21. Andres Gurrieri (78).
===========================
Saturday evening match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City slipped up to another late equaliser as two more home points
went begging against Burton.
The Bantams looked on course for their first win in 2012 after Andrew Davies
netted a superb free-kick.
But just like last week against Morecambe, there was a nasty sting in the
tail with the visitors levelling five minutes from the end.
Nahki Wells caused instant trouble for the Burton back four with two
defenders quickly booked for bringing him down.
It was a disjointed start to the game, which was not helped by a bobbly
surface. There were too many loose passes and the first shot after 15
minutes was high, wild and not particularly handsome from Burton winger
Cleveland Taylor.
Craig Fagan cleverly created City's first opening but his cross was a
fraction high for Ritchie Jones who headed over.
The frequent stoppages prevented any flow to proceedings but yet another
free-kick two minutes before half-time saw the deadlock broken in stunning
fashion.
Ryan Austin tugged James Hanson's shirt 25 yards out and Davies curled an
unstoppable set-piece over the wall and into the top corner of the net.
Swirling rain made conditions trickier after the restart and City were
almost caught out by a Justin Richards cross that flew untouched across the
goalmouth.
Ricky Ravenhill fired narrowly across goal at the other end before Davies
was denied a second by a fine save from Ross Atkins, who just managed to
claw his header from a corner on to the post.
Andy Haworth then got clear but his cross just beat Wells sliding in at the
far post.
City scorned the chance to put the game to bed with several promising breaks
not leading to anything.
And they paid the price after 85 minutes when Burton's subs combined for Adi
Yussuff to touch in Chris Palmer's cross.
Deane Smalley, on his debut, shot wide and Ricky Ravenhill half-volleyed
over in stoppage time as City finished frustrated again.
===========================
Monday morning match report
History repeats itself as Bradford City fail to kill off visitors at Valley Parade
8:00am Monday 23rd January 2012
By Simon Parker
Bradford City 1 Burton Albion 1
Ever watched one of those TV programmes when you suddenly remember the ending halfway through?
You think it's something new but then starts to look familiar and you see the punchline coming well before the finish.
For Burton on Saturday, read Morecambe the week before.
All right you didn't have the histrionics of Kevin Ellison gurning along the touchline but otherwise this was a repeat of the previous home game.
City ahead, City on top, City blowing chances to put the game to bed, City getting pegged back in the closing minutes.
Another Valley Parade draw which, in popular football vernacular, "feels like a defeat".
The final scoreline should come as no surprise for the statisticians. Five of the six games between the two sides since Burton rose from non-league have finished in draws.
But City should have been home and hosed by the time Burton stole their scruffy goal against an otherwise impeccable back four.
Andrew Davies, inevitably, was its heart and soul. And he was left scratching his head why his free-kick wonder strike just before half-time did not turn out the match-winner.
"It should have been 3-0 or 4-0 by the time they scored," he said. "It was a similar scenario to Morecambe but I felt we played better this time.
"We defended well as a whole and they didn't have any clear-cut chances. We were comfortable. But we always needed that second goal. You can't hang on to a 1-0 lead to the last five minutes."
Sadly City proved again that they can't. But the defence should not shoulder any of the blame for that.
With no Luke Oliver, Lee Bullock stood shoulder to shoulder with Davies in his first start since the opening day. Rob Kozluk, at right back, declared himself fit to play despite missing most of the week's training after his debut injury.
But you couldn't see the join. Burton's front two are as big a handful as you'll get in League Two but City resolutely kept them at arm's length.
Davies won his headers and went toe-to-toe with the imposing Zola. Bullock was the faithful sidekick, tidying up the loose balls and throwing himself into well-judged tackles.
Any niggling doubts Phil Parkinson might have had at the wisdom of letting Steve Williams head for Scotland were quickly blown away in the swirling rain.
Parkinson said: "Bully's a cool customer and he showed it. Andrew was a collosus and Bully played with great intelligence.
"It was difficult for him coming into a high-tempo game on a very heavy pitch against two very good strikers but I thought he was superb.
"It's credit to all the work he's done in his rehab to complete the whole 90 minutes."
At first it looked like Burton would be the defence creaking under the strain. Trying to nullify the pace of Nahki Wells earned early bookings for two of the back four and with first-year ref Lee Collins' reputation for flashing red cards, City should have made hay.
But the first-half onslaught never materialised. James Hanson, who worked his socks off again for little reward, had an unsuccessful shout for a penalty but there was little of note at either end until Davies broke the dreary deadlock in stunning style.
Inevitably the goal came from a foul – one of over 20 that Collins awarded before the break.
Paul Peschisolido argued that Ryan Austin's tug of Hanson's shirt was a case of "six of one and half a dozen of the other" but there was no disputing the quality of Davies' strike.
Lining up like Johnny Wilkinson preparing to slot over a penalty, the centre half seemed to shut himself off from the outside world before drilling the ball over the wall and into the top corner.
He said: "I just had that confidence that I'd hit the target and score.
"I scored a couple of free-kicks through my youth at Middlesbrough but never really taken any in league games. Hopefully now I can start practising them and get more goals."
Peschisolido was unhappy with the position of keeper Ross Atkins, who seemed to get caught flat-footed. But he was to make amends with a fine save to deny Davies a second midway through the second half.
The defender's header from a Craig Fagan corner was goal-bound until Atkins just managed to claw it against the post.
That was the closest City came to doubling their lead and guaranteeing a first win of the new year.
But there were plenty of other moments when they could and should have done better. Andy Haworth was the guiltiest party with some indifferent crosses from promising breaks but Fagan and Wells also scorned their opportunities.
With City failing to kill the game off, Peschisolido went for broke and threw on two more strikers for the final 20 minutes. Both had a part in the 85th-minute equaliser.
Holes had appeared in the middle of the park as the Bantams continued to flood forward for a second goal. Chris Palmer exploited one by pinging in an awkward cross from wide on the right.
It passed through several bodies before fellow sub Adi Yussuff nipped in front of Davies to apply the slightest of deflections past Jon McLaughlin.
Davies thought the pass had gone straight in but Yussuff was adamant he had made contact with the ball and celebrated accordingly. It wasn't the taunting gestures that Ellison riled the crowd with the previous Saturday but the home hurt fell just the same. The script was a familiar one.
===========================
Bradford City: Luke O'Brien in talks to join Exeter
7:10am Monday 23rd January 2012 in
Full article
http://bit.ly/zIVDwJ
Luke O'Brien heads to the west country today as he prepares to sever a 15-year tie with City by joining Exeter.
The League One side are ready to take over the left back's contract, which is due to run out at the end of the season.
City's former player of the year has been out of favour under Phil Parkinson and will meet the Grecians for talks with his manager's blessing.
Parkinson said: "We've had a couple of chats and OB feels he needs a fresh challenge in his career. I agree with him. He's been here a long time but he needs to get himself going again for various reasons.
"On the other side of it, we're bringing in players and the chairmen obviously want me to redress the balance.
===========================
Flynn back at training ground
Posted on: Mon 23 Jan 2012
City midfielder Michael Flynn made a welcome return to the Bantams' Apperley Bridge training ground this Monday as he continues on his road to recovery from his recent illness problems.
The popular Welshman has missed City's last six matches - and had to endure two spells in hospital - after picking up a nasty bout of gastroenteritis just before Christmas.
After coming out of hospital for a second time at the back end of last week though, Flynn is now able to eat regularly for the first time in nearly a month and appears to be finally over the stomach virus.
Flynn will now take part in his own training programme with City's physio team for the next week or so as he looks to build his fitness levels back up to normal.
And while there is no time scale in place just yet for a possible return for the midfielder, Flynn admits he is delighted to be back in the fold.
Flynn said: "It's great to see the boys again, they have all made me feel really welcome. The banter is already flying about!
"It's great to see some smiling faces and to be back in the dressing room. It's almost like I haven't been away.
"Thankfully, I've had no problems since coming out of hospital the second time. I have an idea in my head of when I want to be back (playing) but I know I have to take things as they come.
"It is now a case of me building up my strength and building my fitness levels back up and hopefully getting back out on that pitch sooner rather than later."
===========================
Reid almost ready to return
Posted on: Tue 24 Jan 2012
City winger Kyel Reid could be in line for a shock return to first team action after making good recent progress from his hamstring problem.
Reid was initially predicted to miss around six weeks of the campaign after suffering a partial grade two tear to his right hamstring in the second half of City's Boxing Day fixture with Crewe Alexandra.
But Reid, who took part in a section of the warm up before the Morecambe fixture just over a week ago, is now back in training ahead of this Saturday's Bristol Rovers fixture only a month after suffering the injury.
And with his flying winger now back in the fold, City boss Phil Parkinson has not ruled out the possibility of Reid making the trip to the Memorial Stadium at the weekend.
"Reidy is now back in training with us. He has a chance of being in the squad for the weekend, he's certainly in contention," revealed Parkinson.
"It would be obviously great to have him back if he was involved because he was a big player for us before he got injured.
"We'll have to see how he is later this week though."
Parkinson is also hopeful that Simon Ramsden can be given the green light to step us his own recovery from a broken toe when he visits his specialist this Thursday.
"Simon Ramsden is visiting his specialist on Thursday, so hopefully that will be more positive news, " Parkinson added.
"Hopefully he will get the all-clear and we can think about getting him back sooner rather than later."
===========================
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
L2 (H) D2-2 Morecambe, Saturday January 14, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
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Fixtures
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http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Jan 12 onwards
Andy Haworth, 1 month loan, Bury
Ricky Ravenhill, signed, two and a half years.
Deane Smalley, loan, Oxford United, end of season
Jan 18
Marcel Seip, extended for the rest of the season.
Injuries
Oliver, Hamstring, 10 days to one month
Rob Kozluk "50-50" for Burton game
Ricky Ravenhill, ankle, hoping to return to training on Thursday
===========================
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Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Bradford City: McLaughlin, Kozluk (Dean 76), Oliver (Taylor 58), Davies, Seip, Fagan, Ravenhill, Jones, Haworth (Stewart 69), Hanson, Wells.
Unused substitutes: Duke, Hannah.
Morecambe: Roche, Parrish, Fenton, McCready, Wilson, Carlton (Ellison 71), Hunter (Jevons 71), McDonald, Haining, Alessandra (Price 89),
Drummond. Unused substitutes:Routledge, McGee.
Referee: S Mathieson (Cheshire).
Man of the match: Ricky Ravenhill.
===========================
Saturday evening match report
From the YP
Bradford City 2 Morecambe 2: Parkinson bemoans lack of concentration as Bantams let it slip
Manager Phil Parkinson praised his team despite the disappointment at seeing Bradford City let two valuable points slip from their grasp in a
frenetic finish at Valley Parade, which saw three goals scored in five minutes.
City were leading 1-0 with four minutes of normal time left thanks to a 60th-minute strike from midfield player Ricky Ravenhill.
However, in a dramatic finale, Morecambe equalised when Bradford defender Andrew Davies turned a cross from Laurence Wilson into his own net in
the 86th minute.
Then, defender Marcel Seip restored City's lead two minutes later, firing into the net after James Hanson's shot was blocked only for former City
loanee, substitute Kevin Ellison, to earn a point for his team in the first minute of stoppage time, volleying home from fellow substitute Phil
Jevons's cross.
Parkinson said: "Obviously when you concede so late it feels like a defeat and their late equaliser was a blow to us, but I could not ask for
more from the players. It was a really good performance, but lack of concentration near the end cost us dearly.
"Marcel Seip's goal should have been the winner. We also had moments when we could have killed the game off at 1-0, but we didn't take them and
you always leave yourself open to the counter attacking type of goal. We are a little bit down, but we will bounce back."
The increasingly influential Ravenhill nearly did not play after hurting his ankle in the warm-up, but Parkinson explained: "We strapped it up
and gave it a go. He is an important player for us."
Ravenhill went on to score his first goal for the club as did Seip.
===========================
Monday morning match report
Player fans love to hate on as sub to score late goal that denies Bradford City victory
6:40am Monday 16th January 2012
By Simon Parker
City 2, Morecambe 2
James Hanson would have been advised to switch his phone off on Saturday night. The City striker was in for a long evening otherwise from a text
pest.
Kevin Ellison planned to give Hanson a hard time after netting Morecambe's dramatic second equaliser only hours earlier.
That took his former team-mate one goal ahead of City's top marksman; another little victory on a day when Ellison had the last defiant say on
every Valley Parade critic.
He is the original Marmite man of League Two; the winger who could stir up a fight in a phone box. Love him or loathe him, Ellison is hard to
ignore.
A stiff back restricted him to the last 20 minutes on his return to West Yorkshire but that was enough for a full repertoire of tricks.
There were the usual dark arts – throttling Craig Fagan and then an apparent clothes line on Ritchie Jones in the build-up to Morecambe's first
goal – and then the superb finish on his weaker right foot to level again in stoppage time.
All this against the backdrop of abuse that he carries like a badge of honour. No wonder Ellison milked it at the final whistle, lapping up the
moment as the cat calls continued to rain down.
He smiled: "I was getting stick from the first minute I warmed up but I expect that. But I gave a bit back and some people don't like that.
"Half of them must get bullied at home by the missus so they come to the game and have a shout at the big bald ugly one – and it's back-fired.
"They were mouthing off and shouting 'you're finished, you're this, you're that' and loads of stuff I can't repeat. So, yeah, it was good to
score.
"When Bradford scored the second time, I looked at the clock and it was as good as over. But we went straight up the other end.
"Bradford have been flying recently and it was good to keep big Hanson quiet and not on the scoresheet.
"There's a little personal battle between me and him. He's got nine goals in the league and now I've just sneaked above him up to ten, so I'll be
letting him know!"
It was a dramatic finale to an eventful afternoon. Encounters with Morecambe usually are.
Four months earlier, it was City celebrating the smash-and-grab point when Ross Hannah's late intervention earned a first point for Phil
Parkinson as manager.
So Jim Bentley's Shrimps will feel that Ellison settled a score on their behalf just as much as his own.
The old cliche that it felt like a defeat summed up the mood that engulfed Valley Parade afterwards. But the fans shouldn't get too downcast.
This was another uplifting display from their team despite the eventual stalemate. On the back of the Crewe and Shrewsbury games, there was again
plenty for the home crowd to cheer about.
The drama had begun before the game when Ricky Ravenhill went down during City's training routine.
The midfield battler had turned over his ankle and needed ten minutes of intensive treatment from physio Dave Hanson while those in the ground
looked on anxiously.
Ravenhill has quickly become such a key player in Parkinson's plans. To lose him on top of David Syers and Michael Flynn would have left a giant
hole in the team's engine room.
Chris Mitchell was being prepared for action behind the scenes as Hanson strapped up the injury and put the new signing through his paces.
Gingerly at first, Ravenhill did enough to assure everyone he was fit for battle.
He then proceeded to underline just why Parkinson was so chuffed to get him on a permanent deal for the next two and a half years.
As the manager said, Ravenhill sets the tone and tempo for the team. The high-energy, pressing efforts that are becoming a hallmark of
Parkinson's reign are typified by the fella at the heart of proceedings.
Ultimately his switch to right back, forced by the injuries to Luke Oliver and Rob Kozluk, cost City their balance. Both Morecambe goals
originated from that side.
But it would be harsh to point the finger at the emergency reshuffle. Ravenhill had already put in a real shift in his own position which should
have been enough to secure a third home win on the bounce.
The first half had been fairly mundane, with little indication of the drama that was to unfold. The pitch didn't help but City had adapted better
and tried to pass their way round Morecambe's rehashed system.
The visitors turned up with three centre halves but City adapted to that unexpected tactic and the Hanson and Nahki Wells attacking combo was
again making waves.
One Hanson knock-down just evaded the Bermudian and then Wells appeared to be tumbled by goalkeeper Barry Roche as he tried to reach another. But
the closest City came was a fizzing long-range effort from Jones which Roche fingered over the bar.
Home hopes took a knock with the worrying sight of Oliver limping away just before the hour mark. The standing ovation and chant that accompanied
his departure showed how much the lanky defender's fortunes have changed.
Once seen by fans as an unwanted legacy of the Peter Taylor era, Oliver's name is arguably now the first on the teamsheet. He will be sorely
missed while the hamstring heals.
But there was no immediate problem for City as Wells stretched Roche into a tumbling save – and the corner produced the breakthrough.
Andrew Davies hooked the ball back into the box where it was cleared as far as Ravenhill, who met it with a scorching strike from 20 yards.
City had the bit between their teeth now and substitute Mark Stewart slid a ball just out of reach of Hanson running in at the back post. Then
Wells was a bit too casual with a shot on the spin, ballooning over after good interplay with Kozluk.
But Ellison's arrival changed the dynamic. First he headed down for Lewis Alessandra to jab wide, before grabbing City skipper Fagan in a
confrontation on the halfway line.
With four minutes left, he knocked over Jones off the ball. But referee Scott Mathieson played on as Morecambe broke and Laurence Wilson's cross
was turned into his own net by the sliding Davies.
A sense of injustice simmered, only for Marcel Seip to restore City's advantage. Hanson's shot was blocked by a smothering defender and, while
his team shouted in vain for handball, the Dutchman coolly took a touch before picking his spot in the bottom corner.
Ravenhill, who had signed on Thursday, and Seip, due to put pen to paper today, had both shown their commitment to the City cause by scoring the
goals. It would have made a good story.
Unfortunately there was one last twist to follow. Morecambe again attacked the home side's weakened right flank, Jason Price set up Ellison and
the panto villain fired beyond the reach of Jon McLaughlin.
Attendance: 10,065
===========================
How did the game compare to the predictions?
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/preview/_/id/319717?cc=5739
Things are Kozluk-ing good for Bantams
Bradford's latest signing Rob Kozluk is expected to go straight into the starting line-up against Morecambe.
The 34-year-old former Sheffield United and Barnsley defender has signed a short-term contract until the end of the season as cover for skipper
Simon Ramsden, who will be sidelined for several weeks with a broken toe.
David Syers will sit out the second game of his three-match ban and fellow midfielders Kyel Reid (hamstring) and Michael Flynn (gastroenteritis)
are also unavailable.
Flynn, skipper in Ramsden's absence earlier this season, had a recent spell in hospital because of his illness and the armband has been passed on
to striker Craig Fagan.
The Bantams are bidding to bounce back from last week's FA Cup defeat at Watford. Phil Parkinson's side slipped up at Rotherham in their last
league game after three straight wins had lifted them up the table.
Morecambe boss Jim Bentley has no new injury worries.
Winger Izak Reid is still ruled out with a hernia problem that is set to sideline him for another three to four weeks.
Long-term injury victim Paul Scott has suffered another setback on his road to recovery from a knee ligament problem and is set for more time on
the absentee list having returned to light training recently.
Despite a relatively clean bill of health, the Shrimps are currently enduring a dismal run of one win in 10 matches, including defeat to lowly
Northampton last time out, and the slump is set to drive Bentley into the transfer market.
"We have spoken to a couple of players but money and location has been an issue,'' he told the Morecambe Visitor.
"We haven't got a massive budget and we have to make sure that whoever we bring in will make us stronger.''
===========================
City boss Phil Parkinson spoke to the Bantams' official website - www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk - this Monday afternoon to pass on the latest
information on some of the ill and injured players in his squad.
In an eventful afternoon at the Coral Windows Stadium, Parkinson saw the trio of Rob Kozluk, Ricky Ravenhill and Luke Oliver all picked up
injuries when Morecambe visited the Coral Windows Stadium last Saturday.
Ravenhill, who twisted his ankle in the warm up, managed to play on and score his first ever City goal in the 2-2 draw, but Kozluk (calf) and
Oliver (hamstring) had to be withdrawn in the second half of the Shrimps fixture.
Parkinson says none of the injuries appear to be too serious at present, but the Bantams should have better idea of things later this week.
"Rob Kozluk is 50-50 for the weekend, he's got a bit of tightness in his calf. It just looks like he's had a bit of a spasm in the muscle though,
" said Parkinson.
"We'll have to see how Ricky Ravenhill is later in the week, but we hope he can get back into full training by Thursday. He isn't in too much
pain with the ankle but it is a bit swollen.
"Luke Oliver will have a scan on his hamstring on Wednesday and we should obviously have a better idea on his situation then. At the moment
though, his injury doesn't seem too serious."
Parkinson also had an update on the fitness of absence skipper Michael Flynn.
The Welsh midfielder returned back into hospital last week for further tests after suffering with a form of stomach virus since before Christmas.
Parkinson added: "It has been the first day today that he has managed to keep his food down. He is still likely to be kept in hospital until the
end of this week, but hopefully things can get a bit better for Michael now.
"He's had various tests done on him to have a good look inside, and, thankfully, it looks like nothing sinister is going on. It just seems like
he has been suffering with a really bad case of gastroenteritis."
===========================
Dean Windass seeking help after failed 'suicide bid'
4:20pm Sunday 15th January 2012
By Simon Parker
Former City star Dean Windass plans to go into rehab to battle the depression that he claimed left him trying to take his own life.
The 42-year-old has admitted he needs help after plunging the depths following the end of his football career.
Windass said he had hit "rock bottom" after Helen, his wife of 18 years, left him. His father John also suddenly died following a heart attack.
Without football to fall back on, he felt there was nothing to live for. He currently plays non-league football for Scarborough Athletic, his
only source of income.
In an interview with a national Sunday newspaper, Windass revealed that he had twice even attempted suicide.
"I have cried every day for the last two years since retiring," he said.
"People outside football think we have it all. But I was in a hole that I honestly didn't know how to get out of.
"Just over a week ago I decided to end it all. I first took an overdose and, when that didn't work, tried to hang myself.
"I felt so alone and believed I had nothing to live for.
"People have this image of me as this big strong man who can take anything life throws at him. But I'm not ashamed to say I wanted to end it
after a string of setbacks.
"I need to sort myself out, which is why I'm speaking out now. It is part of the healing process."
Windass is the same age as former Leeds midfielder Gary Speed, who hanged himself in November.
He admits the attempt to sort his life out will be bigger than any battle he faced in a decent playing career that included two spells at Valley
Parade.
Windass said: "I felt like I had no purpose any more. I had nothing to get up for.
"I've hurt the people closest to me so I've come out now and admitted I need help. I'm trying to get better and get back on track. I don't want
to be miserable every day."
It is understood that Windass and Helen are now attempting to get back together again. But he hopes the football authorities will do more to
prevent other retired players from following the same slippery path.
He said: "The Professional Footballers' Association need to help us. I was quite a confident person and footballer who contributed to the game
for 20 years. Maybe I took it for granted I would get something at the end of it."
===========================
Bradford City: 'More help needed for players like Dean Windass'
4:21pm Monday 16th January 2012
By Simon Parker
Mark Lawn insists the Professional Footballers' Association must do more to help former players like Dean Windass cope with returning to "normal"
life.
Windass has claimed that he nearly took his own life because of depression.
City's joint-chairman said: "The PFA have a duty of care for their members. They should have some sort of facility to help these ex-players.
"It's akin to being in the army who put people on courses a year before they are due to leave to make sure they can handle civilian life.
"Football has been like a drug for players. Their bodies have been primed to get ready every Saturday since they were 16.
"There must be a hell of an adrenaline rush through their brain and suddenly you're coming off cold turkey. They must still crave that buzz but
it's not there any more."
===========================
From Jan 12
Bury winger Andy Haworth is joining City on a month's loan.
The 23-year-old former Blackburn trainee, who can operate on either side,
has played 52 games for the Shakers, half of them as a sub.
He spent a month on loan at Oxford earlier this season.
Meanwhile, Ricky Ravenhill will sign a contract tying him to the Bantams for
the next two and a half years.
Marcel Seip is also putting pen to paper on a new deal for the rest of the
season.
===========================
Collection at Burton fixture
Posted on: Tue 17 Jan 2012
Bradford City season ticket holder Rob Blamires will be holding a collection at this Saturday's Burton Albion match for a charity trek he is
embarking upon later this year.
Rob will be walking through the Grand Canyon in November to help raise funds for Marie Curie Hospice Bradford.
The trek will be over seven days and will entail walking of approximately 130km.
All the money raised is guaranteed to go directly to the local hospice and not get swallowed up by administration costs. More information on the
trek can be found HERE (http://bit.ly/yi7NEf) .
It costs the hospice £3.3 million per annum to carry on running, of which £1.4 million is provided to them by the government. The rest is made up
of purely donations.
Rob's wife Lisa Blamires was diagnosed with a brain tumour in May 2010 at the age of 25.
Sadly, the tumour was inoperable and after receiving radiotherapy and chemotherapy, Lisa passed away on April 18th 2011.
The hospice has been a great help to Lisa, Rob and their families during this time. From the little things, like Lisa being able to use the
facilities there for her hair doing to physiotherapy sessions, through to counselling being available for all the family.
Rob is eternally grateful to the hospice for all the help they have given and wants to be able to give something back to them.
You will see Rob himself and a lot of his friends around the Coral Windows Stadium ahead of the Burton fixture this Saturday (21st January).
Please give generously if you can. If you are not able to give today but would link to make a donation please go on line to:
http://www.justgiving.com/rob-blamires/
Many thanks for all your support.
===========================
Abbott a guest at Cleckheaton
Carlisle boss and former City midfielder Greg Abbott will be a special guest at Cleckheaton Sports Club on Thursday, January 26.
The 'evening with' event will also feature Radio Five Live commentator – and Bantams fan – Ian Dennis. Tickets are £10 on the night and it starts
at 7.45pm.
===========================
Marcel Seip has pledged his immediate future to the Bantams by signing a new contract extension.
Seip, who's original deal was due to expire this month, has put pen to paper on a contract that will keep him at the Coral Windows Stadium until the end of this season.
News of Seip's decision to remain at the Bantams will come as a welcome boost to City boss Phil Parkinson after making the Dutchman a vital part in his defensive plans in recent weeks.
Seip has featured in City's last thirteen League 2 fixtures - making seventeen appearances in total for the Bantams so far - and has featured in a number of positions along Parkinson's back four.
After making his City debut in central defence at Hereford United in October shortly after originally arriving at Valley Parade on a three month deal, Seip has since been asked to play at right back and left back due to other defensive injuries.
===========================
Smalley signs on loan
Posted on: Thu 19 Jan 2012
City boss Phil Parkinson has moved to bolster his attacking arsenal this Thursday by bringing in striker Deane Smalley on loan from Oxford United.
Smalley, 23, has put pen to paper on a deal until the end of this season and, subject to receiving the relevant clearances, will now be in contention to make his Bradford debut against Burton Albion this weekend.
Under the terms of City's agreement with Oxford for Smalley's services, the striker will not be able to play for the Bantams, however, when the U's travel to the Coral Windows Stadium on Saturday 10 March 2012.
The Manchester-born forward will wear squad number 11 during his stay at Valley Parade this season.
"I'm delighted to add Deane to our squad today. His arrival will increase competition for places up front, which can only be a good thing," said Parkinson.
"He did well in League 2 with Chesterfield last season and played a part in getting them promoted.
"It hasn't quite worked out for him at Oxford this season for one or two reasons, but we're pleased to have him on board with us."
Starting his professional career in League 1 in 2007 with Oldham Athletic, the 6' 0'' striker spent four years at Boundary Park before moving to Oxford last summer.
While at Oldham, Smalley most notably helped Chesterfield to the League 2 Championship last season while on loan at the b2net Stadium from the Latics.
Smalley featured in 29 matches of Chesterfield's title-winning campaign and managed to find the net on twelve seperate occasions, including the winning goal when the Spireities travelled to the Coral Windows Stadium last February.
As well as his successful period with Chesterfield, Smalley also played in League 1 on loan at Rochdale in the same 2010/2011 season.
Despite those two loan spells away from Boundary Park, Smalley still managed to rack up over a century of appearances for Oldham during his time as a Latic.
===========================
Monday, January 16, 2012
FAC3 L2-4 (A) Watford, Saturday January 7, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
FA CUP 3rd ROUND
Watford (2) 4 Deeney 3, Sordell 40, Forsyth 56, 59.
Bradford C (1) 2 Hanson 8, Wells 88.
Att: 8,935
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
(see article below)
SEIP & RAVENHILL EXPECTED TO SIGN
Rob Kozluk, to end of season, free transfer (Port Vale)
WILLIAMS ON LOAN TO INVERNESS
===========================
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Watford - Bradford C
Possession: 56 - 44%
Shots on target: 7 - 4
Shots off target: 3 - 3
Fouls: 13 - 14
Corners: 10 - 6
Ref: Gavin Ward (Surrey).
Yellow cards:
Watford: None.
Bradford C: Ravenhill (33 min), Fagan (60), Bullock (68).
WATFORD: 30. Jonathan Bond, 12. Lloyd Doyley, 6. Adrian Mariappa, 33. Nyron
Nosworthy, 3. Carl Dickinson, 4. John Eustace, 7. Mark Yeates (85), 11.
Craig Forsyth, 32. Jonathan Hogg, 9. Troy Deeney (70), 20. Marvin Sordell
(70).
SUBS: 34. Jack Bonham (GK), 10. Chris Iwelumo (70), 14. Ross Jenkins, 19.
Prince Buaben, 25. Joe Garner (70), 29. Adam Thompson, 31. Tom James (85).
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 36. Marcel Seip, 6. Luke Oliver, 38. Andrew
Davies, 28. Robbie Threlfall, 8. Ritchie Jones (64), 14. Richard Ravenhill
(75), 15. Charlie Taylor, 39. Craig Fagan, 9. James Hanson (84), 21. Nahki
Wells.
SUBS: 34. Matt Duke (GK), 3. Luke O'Brien, 7. Mark Stewart, 10. Ross Hannah
(84), 16. Chris Mitchell, 18. Luke Dean (75), 22. Lee Bullock (64).
===========================
Saturday evening match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City's first trip to the FA Cup third round for eight years went
disappointingly with the form book today on a ground where they have never
won.
Watford's added Championship class proved too much for Phil Parkinson's men,
who were backed by over 1,200 travelling fans.
City matched them for the bulk of the first half but ultimately did not help
themselves with slack defending to blame for three of the home goals.
Their hopes of taking the sting out of the Hornets in the early stages were
blown away inside the opening three minutes.
Marvin Sordell crossed to the far post where Troy Deeney out-jumped Robbie
Threlfall to nod Watford into an immediate lead.
But, to their credit, City were level within five minutes. Ricky Ravenhill's
goal-bound drive was blocked by Carl Dickinson but James Hanson fired home
the rebound for his tenth goal of the campaign.
Watford skipper John Eustace tested Jon McLaughlin low down but City had
bounced back well from that early blow against a side 48 places higher up
the league ladder.
Mark Yeates cut the ball back from the byline to cause panic in a crowded
six-yard box. But Adrian Mariappa's attempted backheel was blocked by weight
of numbers.
But Hanson missed a good chance for his second when he headed over Robbie
Threlfall's corner, City's first of the game.
Watford made them pay by retaking the lead five minutes before the break.
Yeates passed between Threlfall and Ricky Ravenhill to give Sordell a clear
run inside the box. He cleverly dribbled round Andrew Davies before firing
under McLaughlin.
Nahki Wells got a first chance to show his pace soon after the re-start,
bursting past Nyron Nosworthy but Hanson could not get to his cutback first.
But two Craig Forsyth goals in the space of three minutes then put the tie
out of City's reach.
The left winger's first was a tap-in after McLaughlin had palmed away
Sordell's dangerous cross. Deeney and Yeates kept it alive in the danger
zone for Forsyth to finish.
His second just before the hour was a cracking first-time finish from
outside the box after City had been caught upfield by Eustace's counter
attack.
Forsyth was only back in the home side because Michael Kightly had gone back
to Wolves and had seized his opportunity.
City did pull one back two minutes from the end as Nahki Wells slipped
through a static defence to turn in Charlie Taylor's cross And sub Ross
Hannah thought he had made it 4-3 but his header was ruled out for offside.
At least City's cup adventure ended with a bit of a flourish as the focus
now returns to reaching calmer waters in League Two.
===========================
Monday morning match report
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9459286.print/
Disallowed Ross Hannah goal denies Bradford City grandstand finish but Championship quality proves decisive
6:20am Monday 9th January 2012
By Simon Parker
Watford 4, City 2
Mark Lawn may have lost his beard but City slipped out of the FA Cup with their credibility and confidence still in place.
It was no close shave like the joint-chairman enjoyed after the game – though it might have been had Ross Hannah's late header been allowed to
stand.
But there was no disgrace or hint of embarrassment about his club's third-round exit.
Watford were simply too good and too strong, as they ought to be for a side currently sitting 48 places higher up the league ladder.
They are also one of the Championship's form teams. Monday's defeat at Portsmouth was their first in nine games and they had not lost at Vicarage
Road since mid-October.
If it was hardly the most glamorous way to go in City's first third-round appearance in eight years, at least they made the favourites work for
their reward.
And you wonder how much closer it could have been if Phil Parkinson had been able to field the talents of David Syers, Simon Ramsden and Kyel
Reid.
Hornets boss Sean Dyche, unlike many contemporaries, respected the competition by naming his best possible line-up. Apart from the suspended
Scott Loach and a couple of loanees, City were pretty much up against the team that had put together that recent run.
The front two, Marvin Sordell and Troy Deeney, were unchanged from Fratton Park and were the liveliest pair the Bantams will face this season.
On Saturday's display, it's easy to see why England under-21 international Sordell is being eyed by several Premier League clubs.
His pace and movement kept City's back four on red alert throughout. Throw in Mark Yeates on the wing and every Watford attack hinted at danger.
The 1,200 Bantams fans must have feared the worst when the hosts struck within the first three minutes.
Andrew Davies had already blocked from Deeney when Sordell too easily eluded Marcel Seip on City's right. It was the start of a difficult
afternoon for both full backs.
With Seip out of the equation, Sordell could pick his spot with the cross and Deeney outjumped Robbie Threlfall to nod past Jon McLaughlin.
Parkinson was livid on the touchline; his frustration all the more audible because of the absence of any fans in the condemned stand that props
up the dugouts.
He said: "You have to be right on your mettle from minute one. If some people don't start right you'll get punished and we did.
"The cross came in too easily and we didn't defend the back stick. I was annoyed that we started so slowly."
The best City had managed in 11 previous visits to Watford were three draws. It was not an encouraging omen. But within five minutes, they were
right back in it beneath the noses of the travelling hordes.
Nyron Nosworthy cleared out a throw-in but Ricky Ravenhill was straight on to it. His blast from the edge of the box was blocked by Carl
Dickinson but the rebound fell for James Hanson to thrash his tenth goal into the roof of the net.
What a couple of weeks the big man has had – no wonder Parkinson sniffed at the suggestion of him being on anyone else's radar during this
transfer window.
For the rest of the half, City took on Watford as equals. McLaughlin was called upon a couple of times but his sure-handed approach showed there
were no lingering demons from the Don Valley.
But otherwise the League Two visitors were bridging the gulf in class. So much so that Hanson should have headed them in front when he climbed
free to meet their first corner from Threlfall.
Then another dozy moment at the wrong end again proved City's undoing. Threlfall and Ravenhill were drawn into no man's land by Yeates. His pass
from the touchline took both out of the play and Sordell was free in the box.
A neat piece of skill wrong-footed Davies before he fired beneath McLaughlin to send City into half-time chasing the game again.
Parkinson used the break to urge more from his front players, Nahki Wells in particular. The Bermudian had hardly got involved for 45 minutes.
His words struck home and Wells emerged once again the potent threat that has worried league defences in the last few games.
At last he got the chance to run at Watford's defence and a brief acceleration left Sunderland's on-loan Nosworthy floudering. The cut-back into
the six-yard box begged for a City finish but the ball was scrambled away.
That was as close as the Bantams were to get. Yeates shot wide from John Eustace's pass as Watford once more upped their game.
Sordell's cross was frantically palmed away by a stretching McLaughlin but Deeney was straight on to the loose ball. He turned it back into the
goal-mouth, Yeates touched on and Craig Forsyth converted from close range.
City had to throw more men forward and paid the price within four minutes. With so many caught upfield, Eustace had acres of room to counter-
attack. Craig Fagan tried to bring him down but failed and the Watford skipper was able to get his pass into the path of Forsyth.
The left winger, only back in because Michael Kightly had returned to Wolves, seized the chance with a lavish first-time blast that flew into the
top corner. The game was up.
Both sides made changes – Watford resting Yeates and both front two after a job professionally done and Parkinson to ensure that defeat would not
turn into humiliation.
He had no need to fear as City raised a late smile by pulling one back. Charlie Taylor produced the best moment of a quiet performance to cross
for Wells to nudge in the goal his second-half efforts had earned.
It looked too little too late – until substitute Hannah nodded beyond debutant keeper Jonathan Bond a minute later. But hopes of an unexpected
grandstand finish were instantly extinguished by the assistant's raised flag for a narrow offside.
Parkinson said: "I'm pleased we got that goal at the end because it wasn't a 4-1 scoreline. It shows the strength we've got in the team and the
good characters that stood strong.
"We had moments but that's the difference in quality with the Championship. You get punished and I thought their strikers were very good and
clinical.
"Every time they broke, you thought that it could end up in the back of the net because of that extra bit of quality.
"I'm obviously not happy with conceding goals and we need to get that clean-sheet mentality back for next week. But it was a good performance and
we certainly did ourselves proud."
===========================
SEIP & RAVENHILL EXPECTED TO SIGN, WILLIAMS ON LOAN TO INVERNESS
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City are confident that Marcel Seip and Ricky Ravenhill will both be signed
up by Saturday.
But Steve Williams is set to head for the Scottish Premier League to join
Inverness on loan.
The former non-league centre half, who has been out of favour under Phil
Parkinson, had a two-day trial with Terry Butcher's side last week and is
expected to return to the Highlands for the rest of the season.
Seip and Ravenhill have been key players in City's recent league revival and
Parkinson is keen to keep them on board.
Talks have been ongoing and it is likely that both will stay at Valley
Parade for the remainder of the campaign, with City hoping to make
Ravenhill's move from Notts County permanent.
Parkinson still hopes to add another couple of signings during the transfer
window.
He is chasing a striker after missing out on one – thought to be Chris
Dagnall – and is also in the market for another winger.
But despite gathering rumours on the internet, it is not going to be Jack
Compton. Rotherham are believed to be chasing him.
Parkinson said: "We spoke to Jack about staying here. He wanted a long-term
commitment and financially we didn't think it added up - nothing more to
it."
City are hoping to shift some of the fringe players to help clear the decks
for Parkinson to continue rebuilding the squad.
He said: "We want to keep what we've got (in the starting side) but there
are other players who we would consider letting out if we get offers to take
them on loan.
"You expect more to happen as the window starts hotting up."
Some of those out of the picture will get a run-out for the reserves at
Scunthorpe this afternoon.
===========================
http://www.kentonline.co.uk
A football club is feeling flush after scooping £100,000 for having the worst toilets in England.
Ebbsfleet United have been crowned 'Best Loosers' and will receive the money to upgrade the loos at their Stonebridge Road stadium.
Fleet were announced as the winners with more than 6,000 votes beating former Premier League sides Sheffield United, Barnsley and Bradford City.
The competition was set up by Plumb Center and was open to all league clubs in the country.
===========================
DEFENDER KOZLUK OFFERED CITY CHANCE
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Former Sheffield United and Barnsley right back Rob Kozluk is appearing for
City's reserves this afternoon.
The 34-year-old, who recently played for Port Vale, faced Scunthorpe with a
view to being offered a deal until the end of the season.
Phil Parkinson sees him as experienced cover for the injured Simon Ramsden.
Result: Scunthorpe Res 0 - 2 City Reserves.
and...
Kozluk completes City move
Posted on: Wed 11 Jan 2012
City have today (Wednesday) completed the signing of highly experienced defender Rob Kozluk on a short-term deal.
The right back, who played 45 minutes in City's reserve win at Scunthorpe United on Tuesday afternoon, has signed a deal to keep him at the Coral
Windows Stadium until the end of the season.
Kozluk, 34, joins on a free transfer after leaving fellow League 2 side Port Vale last month.
Subject to receiving the relevant clearances, Kozluk will now go into contention for a place in City boss Phil Parkinson's match-day squad for
this Saturday's npower League 2 fixture with Morecambe at the Coral Windows Stadium.
With fellow right back Simon Ramsden still looking to be at least a few weeks away from a return due to a broken toe, Parkinson feels Kozluk will
be a perfect addition to his squad.
Article continues
Advertisement
"Simon has been to see the specialist recently and he was told to come back to see him again in two and a half weeks time," revealed Parkinson.
"He won't be able to do any running during this period so it means that it will still be some time before he is ready to return.
"With this in mind, I felt we obviously needed cover at the right back position and Rob fits the bill.
"He is a hugely experienced defender, who can play in a couple of positions along the back four, and I am looking forward to working with him."
The Mansfield-born defender will head to Valley Parade with over 330 first team appearances - mainly in the Championship with Sheffield United -
to his name .
He has also featured in all four English divisions, including the Premier League, during his career so far.
Kozluk actually enjoyed his time in the Premiership with the Blades after helping them to promotion into the top flight at the end of the 2005/06
season.
He spent around nine years in total at Bramall Lane over two seperate spells with the club and became a firm favourite with the United faithful
in the process due a series of committed displays.
Starting his career with Derby County, Kozluk also featured for the Blades' South Yorkshire neighbours Barnsley for three seasons between 2007
and 2010
===========================
Watford (2) 4 Deeney 3, Sordell 40, Forsyth 56, 59.
Bradford C (1) 2 Hanson 8, Wells 88.
Att: 8,935
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
(see article below)
SEIP & RAVENHILL EXPECTED TO SIGN
Rob Kozluk, to end of season, free transfer (Port Vale)
WILLIAMS ON LOAN TO INVERNESS
===========================
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Watford - Bradford C
Possession: 56 - 44%
Shots on target: 7 - 4
Shots off target: 3 - 3
Fouls: 13 - 14
Corners: 10 - 6
Ref: Gavin Ward (Surrey).
Yellow cards:
Watford: None.
Bradford C: Ravenhill (33 min), Fagan (60), Bullock (68).
WATFORD: 30. Jonathan Bond, 12. Lloyd Doyley, 6. Adrian Mariappa, 33. Nyron
Nosworthy, 3. Carl Dickinson, 4. John Eustace, 7. Mark Yeates (85), 11.
Craig Forsyth, 32. Jonathan Hogg, 9. Troy Deeney (70), 20. Marvin Sordell
(70).
SUBS: 34. Jack Bonham (GK), 10. Chris Iwelumo (70), 14. Ross Jenkins, 19.
Prince Buaben, 25. Joe Garner (70), 29. Adam Thompson, 31. Tom James (85).
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 36. Marcel Seip, 6. Luke Oliver, 38. Andrew
Davies, 28. Robbie Threlfall, 8. Ritchie Jones (64), 14. Richard Ravenhill
(75), 15. Charlie Taylor, 39. Craig Fagan, 9. James Hanson (84), 21. Nahki
Wells.
SUBS: 34. Matt Duke (GK), 3. Luke O'Brien, 7. Mark Stewart, 10. Ross Hannah
(84), 16. Chris Mitchell, 18. Luke Dean (75), 22. Lee Bullock (64).
===========================
Saturday evening match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City's first trip to the FA Cup third round for eight years went
disappointingly with the form book today on a ground where they have never
won.
Watford's added Championship class proved too much for Phil Parkinson's men,
who were backed by over 1,200 travelling fans.
City matched them for the bulk of the first half but ultimately did not help
themselves with slack defending to blame for three of the home goals.
Their hopes of taking the sting out of the Hornets in the early stages were
blown away inside the opening three minutes.
Marvin Sordell crossed to the far post where Troy Deeney out-jumped Robbie
Threlfall to nod Watford into an immediate lead.
But, to their credit, City were level within five minutes. Ricky Ravenhill's
goal-bound drive was blocked by Carl Dickinson but James Hanson fired home
the rebound for his tenth goal of the campaign.
Watford skipper John Eustace tested Jon McLaughlin low down but City had
bounced back well from that early blow against a side 48 places higher up
the league ladder.
Mark Yeates cut the ball back from the byline to cause panic in a crowded
six-yard box. But Adrian Mariappa's attempted backheel was blocked by weight
of numbers.
But Hanson missed a good chance for his second when he headed over Robbie
Threlfall's corner, City's first of the game.
Watford made them pay by retaking the lead five minutes before the break.
Yeates passed between Threlfall and Ricky Ravenhill to give Sordell a clear
run inside the box. He cleverly dribbled round Andrew Davies before firing
under McLaughlin.
Nahki Wells got a first chance to show his pace soon after the re-start,
bursting past Nyron Nosworthy but Hanson could not get to his cutback first.
But two Craig Forsyth goals in the space of three minutes then put the tie
out of City's reach.
The left winger's first was a tap-in after McLaughlin had palmed away
Sordell's dangerous cross. Deeney and Yeates kept it alive in the danger
zone for Forsyth to finish.
His second just before the hour was a cracking first-time finish from
outside the box after City had been caught upfield by Eustace's counter
attack.
Forsyth was only back in the home side because Michael Kightly had gone back
to Wolves and had seized his opportunity.
City did pull one back two minutes from the end as Nahki Wells slipped
through a static defence to turn in Charlie Taylor's cross And sub Ross
Hannah thought he had made it 4-3 but his header was ruled out for offside.
At least City's cup adventure ended with a bit of a flourish as the focus
now returns to reaching calmer waters in League Two.
===========================
Monday morning match report
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9459286.print/
Disallowed Ross Hannah goal denies Bradford City grandstand finish but Championship quality proves decisive
6:20am Monday 9th January 2012
By Simon Parker
Watford 4, City 2
Mark Lawn may have lost his beard but City slipped out of the FA Cup with their credibility and confidence still in place.
It was no close shave like the joint-chairman enjoyed after the game – though it might have been had Ross Hannah's late header been allowed to
stand.
But there was no disgrace or hint of embarrassment about his club's third-round exit.
Watford were simply too good and too strong, as they ought to be for a side currently sitting 48 places higher up the league ladder.
They are also one of the Championship's form teams. Monday's defeat at Portsmouth was their first in nine games and they had not lost at Vicarage
Road since mid-October.
If it was hardly the most glamorous way to go in City's first third-round appearance in eight years, at least they made the favourites work for
their reward.
And you wonder how much closer it could have been if Phil Parkinson had been able to field the talents of David Syers, Simon Ramsden and Kyel
Reid.
Hornets boss Sean Dyche, unlike many contemporaries, respected the competition by naming his best possible line-up. Apart from the suspended
Scott Loach and a couple of loanees, City were pretty much up against the team that had put together that recent run.
The front two, Marvin Sordell and Troy Deeney, were unchanged from Fratton Park and were the liveliest pair the Bantams will face this season.
On Saturday's display, it's easy to see why England under-21 international Sordell is being eyed by several Premier League clubs.
His pace and movement kept City's back four on red alert throughout. Throw in Mark Yeates on the wing and every Watford attack hinted at danger.
The 1,200 Bantams fans must have feared the worst when the hosts struck within the first three minutes.
Andrew Davies had already blocked from Deeney when Sordell too easily eluded Marcel Seip on City's right. It was the start of a difficult
afternoon for both full backs.
With Seip out of the equation, Sordell could pick his spot with the cross and Deeney outjumped Robbie Threlfall to nod past Jon McLaughlin.
Parkinson was livid on the touchline; his frustration all the more audible because of the absence of any fans in the condemned stand that props
up the dugouts.
He said: "You have to be right on your mettle from minute one. If some people don't start right you'll get punished and we did.
"The cross came in too easily and we didn't defend the back stick. I was annoyed that we started so slowly."
The best City had managed in 11 previous visits to Watford were three draws. It was not an encouraging omen. But within five minutes, they were
right back in it beneath the noses of the travelling hordes.
Nyron Nosworthy cleared out a throw-in but Ricky Ravenhill was straight on to it. His blast from the edge of the box was blocked by Carl
Dickinson but the rebound fell for James Hanson to thrash his tenth goal into the roof of the net.
What a couple of weeks the big man has had – no wonder Parkinson sniffed at the suggestion of him being on anyone else's radar during this
transfer window.
For the rest of the half, City took on Watford as equals. McLaughlin was called upon a couple of times but his sure-handed approach showed there
were no lingering demons from the Don Valley.
But otherwise the League Two visitors were bridging the gulf in class. So much so that Hanson should have headed them in front when he climbed
free to meet their first corner from Threlfall.
Then another dozy moment at the wrong end again proved City's undoing. Threlfall and Ravenhill were drawn into no man's land by Yeates. His pass
from the touchline took both out of the play and Sordell was free in the box.
A neat piece of skill wrong-footed Davies before he fired beneath McLaughlin to send City into half-time chasing the game again.
Parkinson used the break to urge more from his front players, Nahki Wells in particular. The Bermudian had hardly got involved for 45 minutes.
His words struck home and Wells emerged once again the potent threat that has worried league defences in the last few games.
At last he got the chance to run at Watford's defence and a brief acceleration left Sunderland's on-loan Nosworthy floudering. The cut-back into
the six-yard box begged for a City finish but the ball was scrambled away.
That was as close as the Bantams were to get. Yeates shot wide from John Eustace's pass as Watford once more upped their game.
Sordell's cross was frantically palmed away by a stretching McLaughlin but Deeney was straight on to the loose ball. He turned it back into the
goal-mouth, Yeates touched on and Craig Forsyth converted from close range.
City had to throw more men forward and paid the price within four minutes. With so many caught upfield, Eustace had acres of room to counter-
attack. Craig Fagan tried to bring him down but failed and the Watford skipper was able to get his pass into the path of Forsyth.
The left winger, only back in because Michael Kightly had returned to Wolves, seized the chance with a lavish first-time blast that flew into the
top corner. The game was up.
Both sides made changes – Watford resting Yeates and both front two after a job professionally done and Parkinson to ensure that defeat would not
turn into humiliation.
He had no need to fear as City raised a late smile by pulling one back. Charlie Taylor produced the best moment of a quiet performance to cross
for Wells to nudge in the goal his second-half efforts had earned.
It looked too little too late – until substitute Hannah nodded beyond debutant keeper Jonathan Bond a minute later. But hopes of an unexpected
grandstand finish were instantly extinguished by the assistant's raised flag for a narrow offside.
Parkinson said: "I'm pleased we got that goal at the end because it wasn't a 4-1 scoreline. It shows the strength we've got in the team and the
good characters that stood strong.
"We had moments but that's the difference in quality with the Championship. You get punished and I thought their strikers were very good and
clinical.
"Every time they broke, you thought that it could end up in the back of the net because of that extra bit of quality.
"I'm obviously not happy with conceding goals and we need to get that clean-sheet mentality back for next week. But it was a good performance and
we certainly did ourselves proud."
===========================
SEIP & RAVENHILL EXPECTED TO SIGN, WILLIAMS ON LOAN TO INVERNESS
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City are confident that Marcel Seip and Ricky Ravenhill will both be signed
up by Saturday.
But Steve Williams is set to head for the Scottish Premier League to join
Inverness on loan.
The former non-league centre half, who has been out of favour under Phil
Parkinson, had a two-day trial with Terry Butcher's side last week and is
expected to return to the Highlands for the rest of the season.
Seip and Ravenhill have been key players in City's recent league revival and
Parkinson is keen to keep them on board.
Talks have been ongoing and it is likely that both will stay at Valley
Parade for the remainder of the campaign, with City hoping to make
Ravenhill's move from Notts County permanent.
Parkinson still hopes to add another couple of signings during the transfer
window.
He is chasing a striker after missing out on one – thought to be Chris
Dagnall – and is also in the market for another winger.
But despite gathering rumours on the internet, it is not going to be Jack
Compton. Rotherham are believed to be chasing him.
Parkinson said: "We spoke to Jack about staying here. He wanted a long-term
commitment and financially we didn't think it added up - nothing more to
it."
City are hoping to shift some of the fringe players to help clear the decks
for Parkinson to continue rebuilding the squad.
He said: "We want to keep what we've got (in the starting side) but there
are other players who we would consider letting out if we get offers to take
them on loan.
"You expect more to happen as the window starts hotting up."
Some of those out of the picture will get a run-out for the reserves at
Scunthorpe this afternoon.
===========================
http://www.kentonline.co.uk
A football club is feeling flush after scooping £100,000 for having the worst toilets in England.
Ebbsfleet United have been crowned 'Best Loosers' and will receive the money to upgrade the loos at their Stonebridge Road stadium.
Fleet were announced as the winners with more than 6,000 votes beating former Premier League sides Sheffield United, Barnsley and Bradford City.
The competition was set up by Plumb Center and was open to all league clubs in the country.
===========================
DEFENDER KOZLUK OFFERED CITY CHANCE
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Former Sheffield United and Barnsley right back Rob Kozluk is appearing for
City's reserves this afternoon.
The 34-year-old, who recently played for Port Vale, faced Scunthorpe with a
view to being offered a deal until the end of the season.
Phil Parkinson sees him as experienced cover for the injured Simon Ramsden.
Result: Scunthorpe Res 0 - 2 City Reserves.
and...
Kozluk completes City move
Posted on: Wed 11 Jan 2012
City have today (Wednesday) completed the signing of highly experienced defender Rob Kozluk on a short-term deal.
The right back, who played 45 minutes in City's reserve win at Scunthorpe United on Tuesday afternoon, has signed a deal to keep him at the Coral
Windows Stadium until the end of the season.
Kozluk, 34, joins on a free transfer after leaving fellow League 2 side Port Vale last month.
Subject to receiving the relevant clearances, Kozluk will now go into contention for a place in City boss Phil Parkinson's match-day squad for
this Saturday's npower League 2 fixture with Morecambe at the Coral Windows Stadium.
With fellow right back Simon Ramsden still looking to be at least a few weeks away from a return due to a broken toe, Parkinson feels Kozluk will
be a perfect addition to his squad.
Article continues
Advertisement
"Simon has been to see the specialist recently and he was told to come back to see him again in two and a half weeks time," revealed Parkinson.
"He won't be able to do any running during this period so it means that it will still be some time before he is ready to return.
"With this in mind, I felt we obviously needed cover at the right back position and Rob fits the bill.
"He is a hugely experienced defender, who can play in a couple of positions along the back four, and I am looking forward to working with him."
The Mansfield-born defender will head to Valley Parade with over 330 first team appearances - mainly in the Championship with Sheffield United -
to his name .
He has also featured in all four English divisions, including the Premier League, during his career so far.
Kozluk actually enjoyed his time in the Premiership with the Blades after helping them to promotion into the top flight at the end of the 2005/06
season.
He spent around nine years in total at Bramall Lane over two seperate spells with the club and became a firm favourite with the United faithful
in the process due a series of committed displays.
Starting his career with Derby County, Kozluk also featured for the Blades' South Yorkshire neighbours Barnsley for three seasons between 2007
and 2010
===========================
Friday, January 06, 2012
CFML special : Parkinson wins League 2 Manager Of The Month
City boss Phil Parkinson has been named as npower League 2 Manager of the Month for December this Friday morning.
Parkinson has beaten off competition from Accrington Stanley boss John Coleman, Cheltenham Town's Mark Yates and Port Vale's Micky Adams to win the monthly managerial gong.
The award for the City chief is reward for the Bantams' superb form throughout the final month of 2011 - a month which saw Parkinson's men drop only two points from their four league matches.
Highlights from December's fixtures for City included impressive wins over promotion-chasing Southend United and Shrewsbury Town, while City scored eight goals and conceded only two throughout the month.
Parkinson said: "I am obviously delighted to pick up this award but I feel I am collecting it on behalf of the whole team.
"This is a reward for all the hard work put in by the staff and players recently and hopefully something we can build on."
The honour for Parkinson is the first time a City manager has won such an award since October 2004 when the then-Bantams boss Colin Todd won the equivalent prize for League 1.
Unfortunately the Bantams' consistent defender Luke Oliver was unable to add to City's celebrations after he lost out in the vote for December's League 2 Player of the Month.
Oliver was nominated for the award but the judging panel went for Accrington Stanley's Bryan Hughes instead.
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
L2: L0-3 (A) Rotherham, Monday January 2, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
NPower League Two
Rotherham ( 0) 3 Grabban 63, pen 68, Williams 74
Bradford C (0) 0
Att: 5,368
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Ramsden, broken toe (v Shrewsbury), out 3-6 weeks
To City, On Loan
Charlie Taylor, Left wing, Leeds United (28 days)
Returned to City
Nialle Rodney (1 month @ mansfield)
Returned to parent clubs
Jack Compton (falkirk)
Michael Bryan (watford)
Jamie Devitt (Hull)
Liam Moore (leicester)
===========================
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Rotherham - Bradford C:
Possession: 55 - 45%
Shots on target: 4 - 1
Shots off target: 4 - 2
Fouls: 9 - 12
Corners: 6 - 3
Ref: Robert Madley (Ossett, West Yorkshire).
Yellow cards:
Rotherham: Schofield (90+2 min).
Bradford C: Davies (81 min).
ROTHERHAM: 1. Rhys Taylor, 2. Dale Tonge, 24. Michael Raynes, 17. Johnny
Mullins, 26. Sam Wood, 20. Chris Holroyd (71), 4. Danny Harrison (46), 9.
Alex Revell, 11. Danny Schofield, 8. Jason Taylor, 23. Lewis Grabban.
SUBS: 21. Andy Warrington (GK), 10. Brett Williams (71), 15. Mark Bradley,
22. Troy Brown, 25. Jon Harley (46).
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 36. Marcel Seip, 38. Andrew Davies, 6. Luke
Oliver, 28. Robbie Threlfall, 39. Craig Fagan, 23. David Syers (77), 14.
Richard Ravenhill, 15. Charlie Taylor (78), 9. James Hanson, 21. Nahki Wells
(59).
SUBS: 34. Matt Duke (GK), 7. Mark Stewart (78), 10. Ross Hannah (59), 16.
Chris Mitchell, 22. Lee Bullock (77).
===========================
Monday evening match report
By Simon Parker
Bradford City let in three goals in nine minutes to crash to defeat against
Rotherham this afternoon.
They conceded more in a dreadful second-half spell than in the previous five
league games as the unbeaten run came to an abrupt end.
The first half was almost devoid of incident.
City looked comfortable and James Hanson and Nahki Wells looked a handful
without seriously troubling Rotherham's on-loan keeper Rhys Taylor.
Hanson had the only on-target effort of 45 dour minutes with a shot straight
at him after latching on to a long ball from Luke Oliver.
Simon Ramsden's broken toe meant a shuffle at the back and Robbie Threlfall
returned for his first start since injury.
But the backline, so impressive in recent weeks, had a pretty easy run of
it. It took Rotherham 40 minutes before they created a proper chance, Lewis
Grabban setting up Danny Schofield for a cross-shot wide.
Schofield forced Jon McLaughlin into his first proper save just before the
hour with a powerful drive which the keeper turned away.
Rotherham had looked livelier since half-time and made the breakthrough
after 63 minutes, Grabban turning in the loose ball after City failed to
deal with a free-kick.
Within four minutes it was 2-0. McLaughlin caught Sam Wood as he burst into
the box and Grabban sent him the wrong way with the penalty.
The game was then put firmly beyond them by a speculative strike from sub
Brett Williams which deceived McLaughlin, who fumbled it into the net.
Substitute Mark Stewart headed against the post but City were left to rue a
second half to forget.
===========================
Three-goal Rotherham blitz sends Bradford City crashing to defeat
8:10am Tuesday 3rd January 2012
By Simon Parker
Rotherham 3 Bradford City 0
How fitting that Olympic year should kick off at an athletics stadium.
But the only similarity with the Don Valley and London 2012 is the running track.
With its 1970s East German clock looming over the vast swathe of empty seating, there cannot be a less inviting arena to watch sport. It's got a good view of the hills surrounding Sheffield but that's about it.
No wonder Rotherham cannot get out quick enough.
Forget the countdown to the summer games, the Millers are ticking off the hours until they can pitch up in New York – their new home which is due to open for next season.
But until yesterday, the Don Valley had been a happy hunting ground for the Bantams. Trips to this wide-open bowl had usually been worth the trouble.
That all changed in 11 nightmarish minutes midway through the second half.
For just over an hour, City seemed to be cruising towards a second successive goalless away draw with Rotherham to go with two earlier wins.
Then, like a runner suddenly hitting the wall, Phil Parkinson's men were brushed aside as a quickfire treble blast put paid to the unbeaten run.
Parkinson had been forced to break up the back four that had done such an impressive recent job after Simon Ramsden broke a toe courtesy of the late lunge by Shrewsbury full back Joe Jacobson on Saturday.
Marcel Seip switched sides and Robbie Threlfall returned for his first start since getting injured at Macclesfield in October.
Leeds loan signing Charlie Taylor also came straight in for Jack Compton and Ricky Ravenhill was back from suspension. Alongside him, David Syers kept his place ahead of the club's appeal over his hotly-disputed Shrewsbury red card.
For a Yorkshire derby, the game started off in a very flat atmosphere – in Olympic terms, more the first qualifying round of the archery than the 100 metres final.
You sense Man United and Man City would have struggled to generate much better at a venue that is so far removed from the crowd it feels like playing on the moon.
But City were once again backed in good numbers, making up a third of the 5,368 crowd, and all confident of seeing their recent good form continue.
The visitors looked comfortable in the opening exchanges, enjoying plenty of the ball, although little was happening.
James Hanson, trying to extend his hot streak, was the first to offer a shot in anger as he warmed the hands of Rhys Taylor after chasing Luke Oliver's clearance.
The Rotherham keeper, one of three Taylors in action, had only joined hours earlier on loan from Chelsea.
It was stop-start stuff, with the ball spending a fair chunk of the time out of play. A lack of ball boys just added to the delays.
As the game struggled to find a rhythm, Ravenhill needed treatment after a clash of heads with Danny Harrison. The break briefly roused the home side and Jason Taylor found room for a shot over the bar.
Hanson and Nahki Wells were asking questions of the Rotherham back four without creating anything. Charlie Taylor had a good chance to cross for Hanson but lingered in possession and the opportunity was lost.
After a tepid half hour, the away fans tried to rouse proceedings by upping the volume. There was no noise from the home supporters in their soulless environment – the day they move into a ground they can call their own cannot come soon enough.
An ugly long-range drive from Harrison drew an ironic cheer as it bounced across the running track behind Jon McLaughlin's goal.
City had a sniff after 36 minutes from their second corner. Craig Fagan's deep kick picked out the flying Hanson but the striker could not get a decent contact on the ball.
There wasn't the snap in the passes from Saturday and it looked like a second game in three days. But City had not been remotely troubled as half-time approached.
Syers won another corner and the keeper got in trouble as he came for it through a ruck of players. The ball bobbled around invitingly before referee Robert Madley dug Rotherham out of the hole by giving a free-kick for a push.
But City had a scare just before the break when they failed to close down Lewis Grabban outside the penalty area. He slid a pass through to Danny Schofield, whose cross-shot did not miss the far post by much as McLaughlin looked on anxiously.
At least it did trigger a little flurry of action in the two added minutes.
Wells tried to burrow his way into the Rotherham box but the ball wouldn't come down for him. Rotherham went straight up the other end to win a corner but Andrew Davies blocked the header and then cleared out any danger.
City were attacking towards the corner segment of their fans for the second half. But Rotherham had the first chance when Oliver leaned all over Chris Holroyd, Sam Wood wasting the free-kick from 25 yards out.
Syers had been quieter than Saturday but a bursting run into the box almost set up Wells, who just failed to control the ball in his stride. Rotherham responded with a corner but Johnny Mullins nodded off course.
The City keeper was called upon after a loose pass from Oliver was picked off on the halfway line. Wood found Schofield, whose well-struck drive was palmed away – McLaughlin's first save of the afternoon.
Parkinson introduced Ross Hannah's fresh legs on the hour for Wells as he looked to liven things up. But Rotherham had shown more conviction since the break – and made the breakthrough in the 63rd minute.
Oliver was again punished for a foul and City failed to deal with the free-kick when it was hoisted into the mix. McLaughlin tried to claim in the scrum but the ball popped up loose and Grabban forced home as the visitors claimed in vain for a push on the keeper.
It got worse for McLaughlin four minutes later as Wood burst clear to his left. The City keeper went to challenge with his feet and claimed he played the ball onto the full back as he tumbled, but instead of awarding a goal-kick, referee Madley pointed to the spot.
Protests once again fell on deaf ears and Grabban sent McLaughlin the wrong way to double Rotherham's advantage.
City had paid a heavy price for not coming out of the traps for the second half – just as they had done at Valley Parade in November.
For McLaughlin, the agony was not finished. Brett Williams had only been on for three minutes when he chanced his arm with an outrageous attempt from the touchline 25 yards out.
The keeper was left back-pedalling as he tried to deal with the flying effort but the momentum took him into the net with the ball.
Parkinson opted to rest Syers by bringing on Lee Bullock and Mark Stewart also got a run-out, nearly pulling one back with a header that bounced off the post.
But the contest was finished and the majority of travelling supporters had headed for the exit long before the final whistle.
===========================
Fans form with PP
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2564898,00.html?
City supporters will have the opportunity to pick the brains of the Bantams boss Phil Parkinson and his assistant Steve Parkin in a special fans forum to be held at the Coral Windows Stadium next Tuesday (10 January 2012).
The evening, which has been organised by City kit man Graham Duckworth's charity Bantams Trek, will take place in the 1911 Club at Valley Parade.
Tickets for the evening are priced at £10.00 per person, with the admission cost also entitling supporters to a pie and pea supper.
As with all Bantams Trek events, a proportion of the profits from the evening will go towards City's chosen charity, the Bradford Burns Unit.
Events will start from 8:00pm next Tuesday.
Supporters can purchase their tickets now by ringing the football club on 0871 978 1911. Tickets are also on sale from the Bantams Ticket Office at the Coral Windows Stadium.
===========================
From the radio...
On radio Sheffield Andy Scott the Rotherham manager was full of praise for his team's second half performance as you might expect but interestingly he stated that he'd been to see us Play Shrewsbury on Saturday and thought that City turned in the best display of any team he had seen this season.
===========================
News of ex-Bantams
As I am currently struggling to find time to update
www.antipodeanbantams.com I thought I would pass on a couple of bits of news
on former Bantams, Australia duo Gareth Edds and Paul Reid.
Edds has retired at the age of 30 and is now running the Gareth Edds Soccer
Academy in Townsville.
Reid is currently without a club after a stint with Iranian Premier League
side Mes Sar ... which reportedly lasted five days!
Oh, Bobby Petta is now running a company called Bobby Petta Fitness in
Glasgow while Jonathan Gould, who was mentioned on this list recently, is
now goalkeeping coach at A-League side Perth Glory.
Cheers,
Mark
===========================
Jan 4th
City Lose Syers Red Card Appeal
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City this afternoon failed to get David Syers' red card overturned.
An FA panel upheld referee Dean Mohareb's decision to send him off against
Shrewsbury.
The midfielder will now miss the next three games, starting with Saturday's
FA Cup tie at Watford.
===========================
Rotherham ( 0) 3 Grabban 63, pen 68, Williams 74
Bradford C (0) 0
Att: 5,368
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Ramsden, broken toe (v Shrewsbury), out 3-6 weeks
To City, On Loan
Charlie Taylor, Left wing, Leeds United (28 days)
Returned to City
Nialle Rodney (1 month @ mansfield)
Returned to parent clubs
Jack Compton (falkirk)
Michael Bryan (watford)
Jamie Devitt (Hull)
Liam Moore (leicester)
===========================
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Rotherham - Bradford C:
Possession: 55 - 45%
Shots on target: 4 - 1
Shots off target: 4 - 2
Fouls: 9 - 12
Corners: 6 - 3
Ref: Robert Madley (Ossett, West Yorkshire).
Yellow cards:
Rotherham: Schofield (90+2 min).
Bradford C: Davies (81 min).
ROTHERHAM: 1. Rhys Taylor, 2. Dale Tonge, 24. Michael Raynes, 17. Johnny
Mullins, 26. Sam Wood, 20. Chris Holroyd (71), 4. Danny Harrison (46), 9.
Alex Revell, 11. Danny Schofield, 8. Jason Taylor, 23. Lewis Grabban.
SUBS: 21. Andy Warrington (GK), 10. Brett Williams (71), 15. Mark Bradley,
22. Troy Brown, 25. Jon Harley (46).
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 36. Marcel Seip, 38. Andrew Davies, 6. Luke
Oliver, 28. Robbie Threlfall, 39. Craig Fagan, 23. David Syers (77), 14.
Richard Ravenhill, 15. Charlie Taylor (78), 9. James Hanson, 21. Nahki Wells
(59).
SUBS: 34. Matt Duke (GK), 7. Mark Stewart (78), 10. Ross Hannah (59), 16.
Chris Mitchell, 22. Lee Bullock (77).
===========================
Monday evening match report
By Simon Parker
Bradford City let in three goals in nine minutes to crash to defeat against
Rotherham this afternoon.
They conceded more in a dreadful second-half spell than in the previous five
league games as the unbeaten run came to an abrupt end.
The first half was almost devoid of incident.
City looked comfortable and James Hanson and Nahki Wells looked a handful
without seriously troubling Rotherham's on-loan keeper Rhys Taylor.
Hanson had the only on-target effort of 45 dour minutes with a shot straight
at him after latching on to a long ball from Luke Oliver.
Simon Ramsden's broken toe meant a shuffle at the back and Robbie Threlfall
returned for his first start since injury.
But the backline, so impressive in recent weeks, had a pretty easy run of
it. It took Rotherham 40 minutes before they created a proper chance, Lewis
Grabban setting up Danny Schofield for a cross-shot wide.
Schofield forced Jon McLaughlin into his first proper save just before the
hour with a powerful drive which the keeper turned away.
Rotherham had looked livelier since half-time and made the breakthrough
after 63 minutes, Grabban turning in the loose ball after City failed to
deal with a free-kick.
Within four minutes it was 2-0. McLaughlin caught Sam Wood as he burst into
the box and Grabban sent him the wrong way with the penalty.
The game was then put firmly beyond them by a speculative strike from sub
Brett Williams which deceived McLaughlin, who fumbled it into the net.
Substitute Mark Stewart headed against the post but City were left to rue a
second half to forget.
===========================
Three-goal Rotherham blitz sends Bradford City crashing to defeat
8:10am Tuesday 3rd January 2012
By Simon Parker
Rotherham 3 Bradford City 0
How fitting that Olympic year should kick off at an athletics stadium.
But the only similarity with the Don Valley and London 2012 is the running track.
With its 1970s East German clock looming over the vast swathe of empty seating, there cannot be a less inviting arena to watch sport. It's got a good view of the hills surrounding Sheffield but that's about it.
No wonder Rotherham cannot get out quick enough.
Forget the countdown to the summer games, the Millers are ticking off the hours until they can pitch up in New York – their new home which is due to open for next season.
But until yesterday, the Don Valley had been a happy hunting ground for the Bantams. Trips to this wide-open bowl had usually been worth the trouble.
That all changed in 11 nightmarish minutes midway through the second half.
For just over an hour, City seemed to be cruising towards a second successive goalless away draw with Rotherham to go with two earlier wins.
Then, like a runner suddenly hitting the wall, Phil Parkinson's men were brushed aside as a quickfire treble blast put paid to the unbeaten run.
Parkinson had been forced to break up the back four that had done such an impressive recent job after Simon Ramsden broke a toe courtesy of the late lunge by Shrewsbury full back Joe Jacobson on Saturday.
Marcel Seip switched sides and Robbie Threlfall returned for his first start since getting injured at Macclesfield in October.
Leeds loan signing Charlie Taylor also came straight in for Jack Compton and Ricky Ravenhill was back from suspension. Alongside him, David Syers kept his place ahead of the club's appeal over his hotly-disputed Shrewsbury red card.
For a Yorkshire derby, the game started off in a very flat atmosphere – in Olympic terms, more the first qualifying round of the archery than the 100 metres final.
You sense Man United and Man City would have struggled to generate much better at a venue that is so far removed from the crowd it feels like playing on the moon.
But City were once again backed in good numbers, making up a third of the 5,368 crowd, and all confident of seeing their recent good form continue.
The visitors looked comfortable in the opening exchanges, enjoying plenty of the ball, although little was happening.
James Hanson, trying to extend his hot streak, was the first to offer a shot in anger as he warmed the hands of Rhys Taylor after chasing Luke Oliver's clearance.
The Rotherham keeper, one of three Taylors in action, had only joined hours earlier on loan from Chelsea.
It was stop-start stuff, with the ball spending a fair chunk of the time out of play. A lack of ball boys just added to the delays.
As the game struggled to find a rhythm, Ravenhill needed treatment after a clash of heads with Danny Harrison. The break briefly roused the home side and Jason Taylor found room for a shot over the bar.
Hanson and Nahki Wells were asking questions of the Rotherham back four without creating anything. Charlie Taylor had a good chance to cross for Hanson but lingered in possession and the opportunity was lost.
After a tepid half hour, the away fans tried to rouse proceedings by upping the volume. There was no noise from the home supporters in their soulless environment – the day they move into a ground they can call their own cannot come soon enough.
An ugly long-range drive from Harrison drew an ironic cheer as it bounced across the running track behind Jon McLaughlin's goal.
City had a sniff after 36 minutes from their second corner. Craig Fagan's deep kick picked out the flying Hanson but the striker could not get a decent contact on the ball.
There wasn't the snap in the passes from Saturday and it looked like a second game in three days. But City had not been remotely troubled as half-time approached.
Syers won another corner and the keeper got in trouble as he came for it through a ruck of players. The ball bobbled around invitingly before referee Robert Madley dug Rotherham out of the hole by giving a free-kick for a push.
But City had a scare just before the break when they failed to close down Lewis Grabban outside the penalty area. He slid a pass through to Danny Schofield, whose cross-shot did not miss the far post by much as McLaughlin looked on anxiously.
At least it did trigger a little flurry of action in the two added minutes.
Wells tried to burrow his way into the Rotherham box but the ball wouldn't come down for him. Rotherham went straight up the other end to win a corner but Andrew Davies blocked the header and then cleared out any danger.
City were attacking towards the corner segment of their fans for the second half. But Rotherham had the first chance when Oliver leaned all over Chris Holroyd, Sam Wood wasting the free-kick from 25 yards out.
Syers had been quieter than Saturday but a bursting run into the box almost set up Wells, who just failed to control the ball in his stride. Rotherham responded with a corner but Johnny Mullins nodded off course.
The City keeper was called upon after a loose pass from Oliver was picked off on the halfway line. Wood found Schofield, whose well-struck drive was palmed away – McLaughlin's first save of the afternoon.
Parkinson introduced Ross Hannah's fresh legs on the hour for Wells as he looked to liven things up. But Rotherham had shown more conviction since the break – and made the breakthrough in the 63rd minute.
Oliver was again punished for a foul and City failed to deal with the free-kick when it was hoisted into the mix. McLaughlin tried to claim in the scrum but the ball popped up loose and Grabban forced home as the visitors claimed in vain for a push on the keeper.
It got worse for McLaughlin four minutes later as Wood burst clear to his left. The City keeper went to challenge with his feet and claimed he played the ball onto the full back as he tumbled, but instead of awarding a goal-kick, referee Madley pointed to the spot.
Protests once again fell on deaf ears and Grabban sent McLaughlin the wrong way to double Rotherham's advantage.
City had paid a heavy price for not coming out of the traps for the second half – just as they had done at Valley Parade in November.
For McLaughlin, the agony was not finished. Brett Williams had only been on for three minutes when he chanced his arm with an outrageous attempt from the touchline 25 yards out.
The keeper was left back-pedalling as he tried to deal with the flying effort but the momentum took him into the net with the ball.
Parkinson opted to rest Syers by bringing on Lee Bullock and Mark Stewart also got a run-out, nearly pulling one back with a header that bounced off the post.
But the contest was finished and the majority of travelling supporters had headed for the exit long before the final whistle.
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Fans form with PP
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2564898,00.html?
City supporters will have the opportunity to pick the brains of the Bantams boss Phil Parkinson and his assistant Steve Parkin in a special fans forum to be held at the Coral Windows Stadium next Tuesday (10 January 2012).
The evening, which has been organised by City kit man Graham Duckworth's charity Bantams Trek, will take place in the 1911 Club at Valley Parade.
Tickets for the evening are priced at £10.00 per person, with the admission cost also entitling supporters to a pie and pea supper.
As with all Bantams Trek events, a proportion of the profits from the evening will go towards City's chosen charity, the Bradford Burns Unit.
Events will start from 8:00pm next Tuesday.
Supporters can purchase their tickets now by ringing the football club on 0871 978 1911. Tickets are also on sale from the Bantams Ticket Office at the Coral Windows Stadium.
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From the radio...
On radio Sheffield Andy Scott the Rotherham manager was full of praise for his team's second half performance as you might expect but interestingly he stated that he'd been to see us Play Shrewsbury on Saturday and thought that City turned in the best display of any team he had seen this season.
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News of ex-Bantams
As I am currently struggling to find time to update
www.antipodeanbantams.com I thought I would pass on a couple of bits of news
on former Bantams, Australia duo Gareth Edds and Paul Reid.
Edds has retired at the age of 30 and is now running the Gareth Edds Soccer
Academy in Townsville.
Reid is currently without a club after a stint with Iranian Premier League
side Mes Sar ... which reportedly lasted five days!
Oh, Bobby Petta is now running a company called Bobby Petta Fitness in
Glasgow while Jonathan Gould, who was mentioned on this list recently, is
now goalkeeping coach at A-League side Perth Glory.
Cheers,
Mark
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Jan 4th
City Lose Syers Red Card Appeal
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City this afternoon failed to get David Syers' red card overturned.
An FA panel upheld referee Dean Mohareb's decision to send him off against
Shrewsbury.
The midfielder will now miss the next three games, starting with Saturday's
FA Cup tie at Watford.
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