CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Contract extension
Ross Hannah, to summer 2013
Nahki Wells, to summer 2013
Injuries
David Syers, James Hanson and Simon Ramsden are all back in training
Craig Fagan, hamstring, day to day.
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
===========================
Match report
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9573291.print/
Just as Bradford City look all set to end long-running hoodoo, up pops sub to cancel out Wells opener
6:30am Wednesday 7th March 2012
By Simon Parker
City 1, Accrington 1
So the Accrington Stanley curse continues beyond John Coleman.
With Coleman, so often their nemesis, no longer in the opposition dugout, City had hoped to put this longest running of jinxes to bed.
But an equaliser in added time made it five straight draws at Valley Parade for Phil Parkinson's side and the fourth successive 1-1 at home to
Accrington.
Paul Cook carried on where Coleman had left off by thwarting Bantams ambitions – and the game boiled over after their late leveller, with Jamie
Devitt and the Accrington coaching staff stirring up his old team and the fans.
Their reaction was completely over the top, jumping around and gesticulating wildly in front of the City bench before turning to taunt the
supporters in the main stand.
History was against the Bantams on a night that marked the 50th anniversary of the blackest episode in Accrington's past.
It was exactly half a century since the day when they were forced to resign from the Football League in financial ruin.
And even longer to find the last time City beat Accrington at home - October 1955.
Accrington had claimed two wins and three draws from Valley Parade visits under Coleman's command, the last three seasons all finishing in the
same deadlock. In fact, City had not won any of their last six meetings, either home or away.
Luke Oliver was the only City player who had started the defeat at the Crown Ground in August and there were just two Stanley survivors.
Craig Fagan's tight hamstring presented an unwelcome late selection poser for Parkinson, who opted to pair Deane Smalley with Nahki Wells in
attack. There was better injury news at the back, where Marcel Seip had recovered from his twisted ankle.
And the Dutchman had to be sharp on his toes to clear an early Accrington threat from Padraig Amond as the defence reacted slowly to a through
ball.
Wells won two free-kicks in promising positions for City but both were driven straight into the wall.
It was Accrington – and a familiar face – who had the night's first chance as Devitt reacted first to Kevin McIntyre's throw-in in the box but
lashed across goal.
Smalley nearly put Wells in but City had not managed to warm the crowd with any goal-mouth action in the opening quarter.
Accrington, though, threatened on the counter as Peter Murphy timed his run perfectly to take Craig Lindfield's pass in his stride as he burst
into the penalty area. But his touch was heavy and Jon McLaughlin was able to make the block.
City hit straight back with Smalley finding Wells at the near post but his shot on the turn deflected wide off Tote Nsiala.
The visitors were getting some joy on City's right and Devitt dispossessed Rob Kozluk too easily near the byline before Luke Joyce fired high and
wide. Then Lindfield's on-target drive was headed out by Andrew Davies.
Devitt was looking an influential figure against the club where he played nine times in the first half of the season and bypassed Kozluk again
before shooting wide.
City's right back got forward to skew an effort of his own off target and Smalley showed a good turn of pace to break but his final ball for
Wells was poor.
Smalley did get it right with a smart volley after Wells chested down to force the game's first save – and a decent one it was low to his right –
out of Lee Nicholls. Accrington then had the ball in the net but the flag was up for offside before Charlie Barnett hammered over McLaughlin.
But City's keeper made sure the ball stayed out when it mattered, showing superb reactions to deny McIntyre's inswinging free-kick. McLaughlin
must have seen it late when it was whipped in through a crowd of players but just managed to turn it round the post.
The game had finally found some life as half-time approached and Kyel Reid was twice denied his first home City goal. The winger's shot was well
blocked by Nicholls before centre half Michael Liddle threw his body in the way to keep out the rebound.
But City made the vital breakthrough five minutes into the second half. Reid began the move on halfway, dodging through three tackles to work the
ball from one side of the pitch to the other.
Lee Bullock clipped a pass over the top for Wells to use his pace and the Bermudian cut inside McIntyre before thumping a left-foot drive in off
the underside of the bar.
The relief around Valley Parade was evident, although hearts were quickly in mouths when Reid miskicked trying to clear from defence and then
tripped Lindfield, who had picked off the loose ball. The foul looked perilously close to being inside the area but referee Phil Gibbs gave the
free-kick rather than a penalty.
Ricky Ravenhill's pull on Devitt on the halfway line proved costly as the stand-in skipper was shown his tenth yellow card of the season. It
means he is now banned for the Oxford and Wimbledon games.
City almost forced a second goal as Davies got on the end of Kozluk's deep free-kick but his header was straight into the arms of Nicholls.
The home side attacked again as Reid teased right back Danny Coid before opting to shoot instead of cross and warming the keeper's hands at the
near post.
Cook made a double switch in an attempt to get Accrington going again – and Devitt's departure was greeted with ironic cheers from the City fans.
Smalley was forced wide as City broke again and Nicholls came out to meet him and smother the shot. The on-loan Oxford man had put in a good
shift as Fagan's understudy.
Accrington were furious when City played on while Kurtis Guthrie lay on the ground after a challenge with Luke Oliver. Reid and Wells linked well
on the halfway line to send the winger scampering away but the ball took a horrible bobble and his cross lofted into the Kop.
Stanley's frustration was clear in Liddle's ugly lunge on Ravenhill, which earned him a booking. But they were still in the game and Seip was at
full pelt to rob the pacy Micah Evans on the break.
Smalley boiled over after being caught late on the touchline by Nsiala, jumping straight up to grab the big defender before other players raced
over. Both players were carded.
It was Smalley's last involvement and he was replaced by Ross Hannah, going off to a well-deserved ovation after his best performance in a City
shirt.
Hannah thought he should have had a penalty straight away from Liddle's challenge but Gibbs was unmoved by the appeals.
But there was a twist to come in the four minutes of stoppage time. McIntyre whipped in a corner and substitute Will Hatfield volleyed in low
from ten yards out.
The equaliser sparked wild celebrations among the Accrington bench and they spilled on to the edge of the pitch, with Devitt in the thick of
things in front of the City dugout.
And City assistant boss Steve Parkin had to be restrained after something was said by one of the opposition.
Attendance: 9,379
===========================
Bradford City extend Hannah contract
1:34pm Thursday 8th March 2012
By Simon Parker
City are extending Ross Hannah's contract by another year.
The club have exercised an option to keep the former non-league striker, whose deal was due to run out in the summer.
Phil Parkinson said: "Ross has done very well in his first year at this level. He's improving all the time."
===========================
Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson buoyed by return of key trio
8:10am Thursday 8th March 2012
By Simon Parker
City have been handed a treble boost for Oxford's visit to Valley Parade on Saturday.
David Syers, James Hanson and Simon Ramsden are all back in training with the squad today.
And providing none suffer any adverse reaction, the fit-again trio could be in contention to face Chris Wilder's in-form side.
Syers has missed the last three games with a back problem and his return would be timely as Ricky Ravenhill begins his ban.
Hanson has been out for a month due to a torn adductor muscle and could be a straight swap for Deane Smalley, who is ruled out due to the terms
of his loan, while Ramsden's tight calf has kept him sidelined since the win at Torquay.
Phil Parkinson is optimistic that help is at hand as City's March marathon of matches continues at full pace.
He said: "We need them back and obviously Hanson and Syers are goalscorers.
"They all trained hard on Tuesday afternoon in preparation for today. We're putting on a session for them and if they get through that okay then
they'll all be considered for the weekend."
City are also hoping that Craig Fagan's hamstring will calm down after he had to pull out of the 1-1 draw with Accrington.
With such a heavy current workload, Parkinson would love to have a full complement of players to choose from.
"Any time we can get any cohesion, it's been disrupted by three or four changes," admitted his number two Steve Parkin.
"That's happened every game.
"You've got Hanson, Flynn, Syers and Fagan on the sideline. They are key members of the squad to be missing, especially in a month where there
are a load of games.
"It was a late call on Fages the other night but Deane came in and worked tirelessly. I thought the front two were a threat and worked hard for
their opportunities."
City have drawn five at home on the bounce, equalling a run under Colin Todd in February 2006. But Parkin believes the impending arrival of a
team beaten only once in their last 15 outings could be the spark needed.
He added: "It's a good game for us. Oxford are doing well and are obviously a good side. But you've seen we've done well against the top teams.
Torquay and Shrewsbury spring to mind where we've put in really good performances.
"We've just got to make sure the lads are rested and hopefully we'll have a few coming back from injury. We want to meet Oxford head on.
"There are going to be lots of ups and downs at this stage of the season and others are certainly getting dragged into it (at the bottom).
"It's a matter of staying strong and focused. Concentration is key, especially with two, three or four minutes to go.
"That slipped again on Tuesday so we've got to make sure we're right next time."
===========================
From the official BCFC website.
CITY TAKE UP WELLS OPTION
Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson has confirmed that the Bantams are to
extend Nahki Wells' contract to keep the striker at the Coral Windows
Stadium for next season.
Wells' contract was due to expire in the summer after joining the club last
July but City will now exercise the extra year option that was in place in
the Bermudian's original deal.
This encouraging piece of news for City supporters comes only a day after
the Bantams chose to also extend the contract of fellow striker Ross Hannah
in the same fashion.
The Bermudian international has become of the Bantams' main attacking
threats in recent months since breaking into the side towards the end of
last year.
Wells has scored seven goals this season so far - including five in his last
thirteen appearances - to leave him currently sitting second in City's
scoring charts.
"We have taken up the option on Nahki's deal following on from doing the
same with Ross yesterday," said Parkinson.
"Nahki is a player that is improving all the time and we are really pleasing
with his recent efforts.
"He knows that he must keep working hard to improve himself as a player but
he is an exciting young talent and we are enjoying working with him."
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
L2 L0-1 (A) Dag & Red, Saturday March 3, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM. // Season Ticket info
NPower League Two
Dag & Red (0) 1 Saunders 71
Bradford C (0) 0
Att: 3,041
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Dag & Red - Bradford C
Possession: 53 - 47%
Shots on target: 3 - 3
Shots off target: 2 - 2
Fouls: 9 - 20
Corners: 11 - 6
Ref: James Linington (Newport, Isle of Wight)
Yellow cards:
Dag & Red: Bond (85 min), Scott (90 min).
Bradford C: Fry (5 min).
DAG & RED: 1. Jonathan Bond, 4. Scott Doe, 41. Michael Spillane, 6. Mark
Arber, 3. Damien McCrory, 9. Jon Nurse, 19. Abu Ogogo, 15. Matthew Saunders
(72), 25. Ben Reeves (62), 12. Medy Elito, 10. Josh Scott.
SUBS: 30. Chris Lewington (GK), 5. Richard Rose, 23. Brian Woodall (62), 24.
Billy Bingham (72), 37. Dominic Green.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 38. Andrew Davies, 6. Luke
Oliver, 3. Matt Fry, 14. Richard Ravenhill, 22. Lee Bullock, 8. Ritchie
Jones (74), 11. Deane Smalley (60), 39. Craig Fagan (86), 32. Kyel Reid.
SUBS: 15. Jamie Annerson (GK), 16. Chris Mitchell, 21. Nahki Wells (74), 26.
Andy Haworth (86). 30. Will Atkinson (60).
===========================
Saturday evening match report
Report by Simon Parker (T&A)
City blew the chance to surge clear of the League Two basement after losing
a physical slog at Dagenham.
After demolishing Barnet on Tuesday, hopes were high of a third successive
away win.
Instead they lost a war of attrition at Victoria Road to a superb free-kick
from Matthew Saunders.
Lee Bullock got the nod to support Craig Fagan up front and was in the thick
of it during an early flurry.
City thought they should have had a fifth-minute penalty when Bullock
appeared to be shoved in the back. Then he was denied from close range from
their first corner.
Dagenham were getting the ball forward early as expected and playing for
set-pieces. Their second corner should have produced an opening goal but Jon
Nurse deflected wide from Mark Arber's shot.
Then Bullock should have been celebrating his first score since December
2009 but headed Kyel Reid's cross over the bar from close in.
Rob Kozluk took a whack on the nose from Nurse but referee James Linington
took no action - one of several decisions that frustrated the visitors.
Dagenham forced eight first-half corners and an unmarked Arber should have
done better when he got free from the last of them.
Andrew Davies and the back four had been busy throughout but the centre half
was only inches away from connecting with Reid's cross as City finished the
half back on the attack.
The second period became a real scrap and it was nearly halfway through
before Fagan's persistence forced the first shot on target at either end.
But Dagenham took a 71st-minute lead with a rare bit of quality. Ritchie
Jones fouled Josh Scott 25 yards out and Saunders bent the free-kick past
Jon McLaughlin - injuring himself in the process.
Phil Parkinson threw on Nahki Wells to go two up front and Andrew Davies
soon joined them as Bullock dropped into covering midfield duties.
But McLaughlin denied Dagenham a second on the break, stretching out his
right leg to block from lively sub Brian Woodall.
McLaughlin saved from Woodhall again in stoppage time after Luke Oliver
misjudged a high ball.
But Dagenham had done enough to secure their second win in four days and
leave City still stuck on the fringes of the relegation battle.
===========================
Monday morning match report
Andrew Davies left frustrated as Daggers puncture Bradford City hopes
7:50am Monday 5th March 2012
By Simon Parker
Andrew Davies called on City to bank their survival points quickly as he cursed a missed opportunity at Dagenham.
The Bantams have no time to dwell on Saturday's loss as they prepare for this week's home double.
Having thumped Barnet, Davies felt they missed a trick to push further clear of the League Two relegation picture.
Now he wants City to put it right at Valley Parade against Accrington tomorrow and then Oxford.
Davies said: "We've got so many games coming up and the lads are going to be tired. That's why we need to get the results now.
"It's important we get the points in the bank because there are going to be a lot of jaded bodies later on.
"That's why I feel we slipped up against Dagenham. It's not all doom and gloom but I'm just frustrated.
"We were up against a team who'd lost 5-0 at home last time and are second bottom in the league. We're a better team and should have beaten them but the bottom line is we didn't."
A stunning free-kick from Matthew Saunders condemned City to their first defeat in five outings. They are still six points off the bottom two and Davies believes safety is round the corner.
The big defender said: "We are working hard, the manager is getting the best out of us and we've got to keep pulling in the right direction.
"You've got to give the lads credit for getting eight points from the four previous games. But we need to get the results sorted over the next two so we're in a strong position before going away again.
"Tomorrow and Saturday are massive and we've got to play like we did against Shrewsbury and Crewe. That goes for all over the team.
"But it would have been a lot easier if we'd got something at Dagenham. We came from a good result at Barnet and didn't capitalise on it.
"I don't think we deserved much. It was a good free-kick but we didn't create enough."
Lee Bullock, who got the nod over Will Atkinson to play the support role behind Craig Fagan, missed the best chance with a header over the target. City also felt he should have had an early penalty.
Phil Parkinson said: "I thought Bully was one of our best players. He's played that role in his career before and it's a system that's served us well on our travels.
"It was a scrappy game and we didn't get to the levels we've played of late. Dagenham deserve credit because they stop you playing.
"One moment of quality has won it but I thought we were a little bit flat to where we have been in recent games. But we've got to go again now."
===========================
Season Tickets announced!
*** PRICING GOOD UNTIL MAY 31 ***
Season tickets £199
City today unveil their latest cut-price season-ticket deal – with a twist to attract the floating fans.
Adults will pay £199, or the equivalent of £8.65 a game, with over-60s and students in full-time education £149.
There is also a new 50/50 flexi card offering reductions for supporters who watch around half the home games. For £50, those fans get a membership card and can reserve their seat for the season. They will then be entitled to 50 per cent off the admission price every game.
Joint-chairman Mark Lawn described it as a "futuristic twist" after the plans were drawn up with a working party of supporters.
Director of operations David Baldwin said: "We came very close to finishing with cheap season tickets because we've not achieved the 10,000 target. But we've seen a way that should suit everyone.
"People will still see £199 as good value for money and we've also found a middle band for those who can't get to that many games.
"If you're going to come to less than five games then buy a matchday ticket. Those prices won't change.
"If you come to more than five but less than 15 then use the flexi card option. That means paying £10 a time for an adult instead of £20.
Under-16s pay £99 for season-tickets with under-11s again free, subject to conditions.
The prices will remain until May 31 – when they are expected to jump by at least £100 in every category. Baldwin confirmed that the ticket money goes directly into Phil Parkinson's player fund.
"It isn't PR talk. What we bring in from ticket sales is the budget. Everything else, like the Football League grants, commercial and sponsorship money pays for the running of the operation.
"The budget has a massive impact on your success so we needed to consider an element of increase."
===========================
Dag & Red (0) 1 Saunders 71
Bradford C (0) 0
Att: 3,041
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Dag & Red - Bradford C
Possession: 53 - 47%
Shots on target: 3 - 3
Shots off target: 2 - 2
Fouls: 9 - 20
Corners: 11 - 6
Ref: James Linington (Newport, Isle of Wight)
Yellow cards:
Dag & Red: Bond (85 min), Scott (90 min).
Bradford C: Fry (5 min).
DAG & RED: 1. Jonathan Bond, 4. Scott Doe, 41. Michael Spillane, 6. Mark
Arber, 3. Damien McCrory, 9. Jon Nurse, 19. Abu Ogogo, 15. Matthew Saunders
(72), 25. Ben Reeves (62), 12. Medy Elito, 10. Josh Scott.
SUBS: 30. Chris Lewington (GK), 5. Richard Rose, 23. Brian Woodall (62), 24.
Billy Bingham (72), 37. Dominic Green.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 38. Andrew Davies, 6. Luke
Oliver, 3. Matt Fry, 14. Richard Ravenhill, 22. Lee Bullock, 8. Ritchie
Jones (74), 11. Deane Smalley (60), 39. Craig Fagan (86), 32. Kyel Reid.
SUBS: 15. Jamie Annerson (GK), 16. Chris Mitchell, 21. Nahki Wells (74), 26.
Andy Haworth (86). 30. Will Atkinson (60).
===========================
Saturday evening match report
Report by Simon Parker (T&A)
City blew the chance to surge clear of the League Two basement after losing
a physical slog at Dagenham.
After demolishing Barnet on Tuesday, hopes were high of a third successive
away win.
Instead they lost a war of attrition at Victoria Road to a superb free-kick
from Matthew Saunders.
Lee Bullock got the nod to support Craig Fagan up front and was in the thick
of it during an early flurry.
City thought they should have had a fifth-minute penalty when Bullock
appeared to be shoved in the back. Then he was denied from close range from
their first corner.
Dagenham were getting the ball forward early as expected and playing for
set-pieces. Their second corner should have produced an opening goal but Jon
Nurse deflected wide from Mark Arber's shot.
Then Bullock should have been celebrating his first score since December
2009 but headed Kyel Reid's cross over the bar from close in.
Rob Kozluk took a whack on the nose from Nurse but referee James Linington
took no action - one of several decisions that frustrated the visitors.
Dagenham forced eight first-half corners and an unmarked Arber should have
done better when he got free from the last of them.
Andrew Davies and the back four had been busy throughout but the centre half
was only inches away from connecting with Reid's cross as City finished the
half back on the attack.
The second period became a real scrap and it was nearly halfway through
before Fagan's persistence forced the first shot on target at either end.
But Dagenham took a 71st-minute lead with a rare bit of quality. Ritchie
Jones fouled Josh Scott 25 yards out and Saunders bent the free-kick past
Jon McLaughlin - injuring himself in the process.
Phil Parkinson threw on Nahki Wells to go two up front and Andrew Davies
soon joined them as Bullock dropped into covering midfield duties.
But McLaughlin denied Dagenham a second on the break, stretching out his
right leg to block from lively sub Brian Woodall.
McLaughlin saved from Woodhall again in stoppage time after Luke Oliver
misjudged a high ball.
But Dagenham had done enough to secure their second win in four days and
leave City still stuck on the fringes of the relegation battle.
===========================
Monday morning match report
Andrew Davies left frustrated as Daggers puncture Bradford City hopes
7:50am Monday 5th March 2012
By Simon Parker
Andrew Davies called on City to bank their survival points quickly as he cursed a missed opportunity at Dagenham.
The Bantams have no time to dwell on Saturday's loss as they prepare for this week's home double.
Having thumped Barnet, Davies felt they missed a trick to push further clear of the League Two relegation picture.
Now he wants City to put it right at Valley Parade against Accrington tomorrow and then Oxford.
Davies said: "We've got so many games coming up and the lads are going to be tired. That's why we need to get the results now.
"It's important we get the points in the bank because there are going to be a lot of jaded bodies later on.
"That's why I feel we slipped up against Dagenham. It's not all doom and gloom but I'm just frustrated.
"We were up against a team who'd lost 5-0 at home last time and are second bottom in the league. We're a better team and should have beaten them but the bottom line is we didn't."
A stunning free-kick from Matthew Saunders condemned City to their first defeat in five outings. They are still six points off the bottom two and Davies believes safety is round the corner.
The big defender said: "We are working hard, the manager is getting the best out of us and we've got to keep pulling in the right direction.
"You've got to give the lads credit for getting eight points from the four previous games. But we need to get the results sorted over the next two so we're in a strong position before going away again.
"Tomorrow and Saturday are massive and we've got to play like we did against Shrewsbury and Crewe. That goes for all over the team.
"But it would have been a lot easier if we'd got something at Dagenham. We came from a good result at Barnet and didn't capitalise on it.
"I don't think we deserved much. It was a good free-kick but we didn't create enough."
Lee Bullock, who got the nod over Will Atkinson to play the support role behind Craig Fagan, missed the best chance with a header over the target. City also felt he should have had an early penalty.
Phil Parkinson said: "I thought Bully was one of our best players. He's played that role in his career before and it's a system that's served us well on our travels.
"It was a scrappy game and we didn't get to the levels we've played of late. Dagenham deserve credit because they stop you playing.
"One moment of quality has won it but I thought we were a little bit flat to where we have been in recent games. But we've got to go again now."
===========================
Season Tickets announced!
*** PRICING GOOD UNTIL MAY 31 ***
Season tickets £199
City today unveil their latest cut-price season-ticket deal – with a twist to attract the floating fans.
Adults will pay £199, or the equivalent of £8.65 a game, with over-60s and students in full-time education £149.
There is also a new 50/50 flexi card offering reductions for supporters who watch around half the home games. For £50, those fans get a membership card and can reserve their seat for the season. They will then be entitled to 50 per cent off the admission price every game.
Joint-chairman Mark Lawn described it as a "futuristic twist" after the plans were drawn up with a working party of supporters.
Director of operations David Baldwin said: "We came very close to finishing with cheap season tickets because we've not achieved the 10,000 target. But we've seen a way that should suit everyone.
"People will still see £199 as good value for money and we've also found a middle band for those who can't get to that many games.
"If you're going to come to less than five games then buy a matchday ticket. Those prices won't change.
"If you come to more than five but less than 15 then use the flexi card option. That means paying £10 a time for an adult instead of £20.
Under-16s pay £99 for season-tickets with under-11s again free, subject to conditions.
The prices will remain until May 31 – when they are expected to jump by at least £100 in every category. Baldwin confirmed that the ticket money goes directly into Phil Parkinson's player fund.
"It isn't PR talk. What we bring in from ticket sales is the budget. Everything else, like the Football League grants, commercial and sponsorship money pays for the running of the operation.
"The budget has a massive impact on your success so we needed to consider an element of increase."
===========================
Thursday, March 01, 2012
L2 (H) Barnet, Saturday March 3, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
NPower League Two
Barnet (0) 0
Bradford C (2) 4 Fagan pen 17, Atkinson 37, Reid 58, Wells 88
Att: 1,509
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Michael Flynn, thigh, estimated 2 weeks (scan on Friday)
Syers, back, short term
Ramsden, hamstring, short term
All 3 to miss Dagenham game
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Barnet - Bradford C:
Possession: 55 - 45%
Shots on target: 3 - 9
Shots off target: 2 - 7
Fouls: 5 - 12
Corners: 5 - 4
Ref: Roger East (Wiltshire).
Red card: Dennehy (Barnet) 16 min.
Yellow cards:
Barnet: McLeod (90 min), Hector (90 min).
Bradford C: Ravenhill (45 min), Jones (49 min).
BARNET: 18. Liam O'Brien, 17. Michael Hector, 30. Paul Downing, 5. Darren
Dennehy, 19. Jack Saville (49), 21. Clovis Kamdjo, 4. Mark Hughes, 10. Sam
Deering, 11. Ricky Holmes (46), 23. Izale McLeod, 8. Mark Byrne.
SUBS: 1. Dean Brill (GK), 12. Jordan Mustoe (49), 24. Charlie Taylor (46),
25. Alassane N'Diaye, 37. Jordan Obita.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 38. Andrew Davies, 6. Luke
Oliver, 36. Marcel Seip, 11. Deane Smalley, 14. Richard Ravenhill, 8.
Ritchie Jones, 32. Kyel Reid (85), 4. Michael Flynn (24), 39. Craig Fagan
(75).
SUBS: 15. Jamie Annerson (GK), 3. Matt Fry, 21. Nahki Wells (75), 22. Lee
Bullock (85), 30. Will Atkinson (24).
===========================
Tuesday evening match report
Report by Simon Parker (T&A)
City emphatically brushed aside ten-man Barnet with the most convincing of
away wins to take a major step towards safety.
Goals from the excellent Craig Fagan, Will Atkinson, Kyel Reid and Nahki
Wells destroyed the home side who had Darren Dennehy sent off early on.
And Barnet finished fighting among themselves as Izale McLeod, who was
anonymous up front, and Michael Hector had to be pulled apart.
Deane Smalley had an early effort saved by Liam O'Brien before Fagan struck
from the penalty spot after 17 minutes.
The striker, back in the side after recovering from a tight hamstring, had
twice been denied by Barnet defender Dennehy.
But Dennehy then brought Fagan down as he got behind him in the box and was
shown a straight red card.
Fagan sent another lob just wide but Barnet's ten men seemed to be coming
back into it.
Home hopes of a comeback were dashed, though, seven minutes before the break
when Atkinson turned in City's second from Reid's cross.
Marcel Seip nearly headed a third soon after the break but Reid made no
mistake with a glorious goal after bamboozling Paul Downing.
Wells completed the demolition job two minutes from the end finishing off
Rob Kozluk's long pass.
===========================
Wednesday morning match report
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9559039.print/
Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson jumping for joy
8:10am Wednesday 29th February 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson savoured City's biggest away league win for ten years and told his team: You were a joy to watch.
The Bantams crushed ten-man Barnet 4-0 at Underhill last night to leapfrog them into 18th.
Goals from Craig Fagan, Kyel Reid and subs Will Atkinson and Nahki Wells clinched a second road victory on the bounce.
It was their largest away win since beating Gilling-ham by the same score on Danny Cadamarteri's debut in February 2002.
City have also pulled seven points clear of Saturday's opponents Dagenham in the second relegation spot – and have games in hand on all the sides
around them and a much better goal difference.
Parkinson said: "We've still got a lot of hard work ahead of us and every game is a challenge but this really sets us up nicely for what is going
to be a tough one at Dagenham.
"We were terrific and I thought the experience and professionalism was a joy to watch."
Fagan, who missed the Hereford draw because of a tight hamstring, led the line superbly.
Barnet centre half Darren Dennehy was sent off early for a professional foul on him and he combined with Reid to give the home defence a torrid
night.
Parkinson added: "Fages looked like someone who has played at a higher level. He's got that football intelligence and gave their two young centre
halves a really difficult game."
City also claimed their first clean sheet since Boxing Day. Izale McLeod, League Two's leading scorer, hardly got involved – and ended up trying
to fight team-mate Michael Hector in frustration.
Parkinson said: "People talk about the goals we scored but, for me, the back four were excellent. We scored some good individual goals but the
solidness of the back four was really pleasing.
"We've conceded the first goal in quite a few games recently, even when we've started well, but I thought they did a really good job."
The only downer was an injury to skipper Michael Flynn, who lasted only 24 minutes before suffering a thigh strain. But Parkinson felt his
replacement Atkinson took his chance and chipped in with the first goal of his loan from Hull.
"We know that Will's a good player," said the City chief. "He's got that ability to get into those areas and nick important goals and he showed
that."
Barnet defender Hector later apologised for the last-minute scuffle with McLeod when both players had to be pulled apart.
He said on Twitter: "I should never have done what I did."
===========================
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9559038.Bradford_City_on_road_to_glory_as_they_motor_past_Barnet/r/?ref=rss
Bradford City on road to glory as they motor past Barnet
7:10am Wednesday 29th February 2012 in Sport By Simon Parker
Barnet 0 Bradford City 4
City will travel the equivalent of Bradford to Cairo – around 2,500 miles – for away games over the next month.
But the long periods on the motorway will fly by if they continue to perform like this on their travels.
The 17-hour round trip to Underhill which kicked off their marathon turned into a stroll in the park.
Barnet spent 74 minutes with a man down after Darren Dennehy's red card and the visitors took full advantage.
Craig Fagan, back in the side after missing Saturday, got the ball rolling with a penalty and was a huge figure up front. So too was Kyel Reid,
whose goal humiliated his marker.
The second scorer was sub Will Atkinson, who clearly revelled in the "hole" role after captain Michael Flynn limped off.
Barnet's tempers boiled over to the extent that team-mates Izale McLeod and Michael Hector had to be separated as they attempted their own
version of David Haye and Dereck Chisora.
Fagan and Luke Oliver had recovered from injury and both came straight back as Parkinson stuck closely to the line-up that performed so
impressively on their last away trip at Torquay.
The only difference from ten days earlier was Rob Kozluk at right back for Simon Ramsden, who continues to recover from a tight hamstring.
Saturday's goal hero David Syers was another absentee after his back problem flared up again and he did not travel down.
With Fagan back to lead the attack, there was a more physical edge to the visitors after the frustrating draw with Hereford.
City mounted the first effort on goal after eight minutes as Michael Flynn controlled Jon McLaughlin's long free-kick to pick out Deane Smalley.
His shot was well struck but Liam O'Brien beat it away at the near post.
Then Fagan – who was wearing gloves and short sleeves – received Reid's angled ball with a good first touch in the box but Dennehy made a
perfectly-timed tackle to intercept.
The same combo were involved in City's next attack and once again Dennehy foiled Fagan, blocking his shot behind for a corner.
But Fagan had his revenge in the 16th minute – and how. Getting the wrong side of the Barnet centre half, he was sent tumbling and Dennehy was
given his marching orders by referee Roger East.
Fagan picked himself up and coolly sent O'Brien the wrong way from the penalty spot.
Strangely, it was Barnet who initially reacted better to the goal and Mark Byrne's curling corner was anxiously ushered across the City goal.
City were forced into a change after 24 minutes when Flynn appeared to pull a muscle and went down. He came straight off as Atkinson took over
the role playing off Fagan.
Fagan was proving a real handful and latched on to a long ball from Luke Oliver to slip between two defenders. His lob beat the advancing O'Brien
but dropped a couple of yards wide of goal.
Barnet's ten men, though, were coming into it with several corners, although Jack Saville's tame header from one bounced straight into
McLaughlin.
But City took a firm grip on the game with a second goal seven minutes before the break. Reid crossed to the far post, where Atkinson turned the
ball past O'Brien.
It left the depleted home side with a mountain seemingly as steep as the infamous Underhill slope to climb.
Parkinson stormed on to the pitch to protest after Reid's run clear was called back for an offside call in City's favour. But the boss must have
been delighted at the way his side had seized control of proceedings.
The only blot in the closing stages of the half was a booking for Ricky Ravenhill. It was the stand-in skipper's ninth – and leaves him just one
shy of an automatic two-game ban.
Lawrie Sanchez changed strikers at the break, with Charlie Taylor replacing Ricky Holmes, who had done little. Neither had McLeod, the division's
leading hitman.
Ritchie Jones joined midfield partner Ravenhill in East's book before Barnet had to make a second switch as Jack Saville limped off.
City nearly had a third goal in the 54th minute but Marcel Seip's header from an inswinging free-kick from Reid took the faintest deflection wide
of the post with O'Brien helpless.
The visitors continued to threaten, first through Jones and then a mazy run from Reid which took him past Mustoe and Clovis Kamdjo before an ugly
shot cleared the roof of the stand.
City's third arrived just before the hour with a sublime finish from Reid. Taking Fagan's lay-off, Reid ran at Paul Downing and threw him off
balance with a sway of the hips before drilling the ball into the far corner.
Downing had been so embarrassed that he stood there with his shirt pulled over his head.
City were in complete command and Fagan almost had a fourth after good work on the touchline from Atkinson.
Parkinson wisely decided to withdraw him with 15 minutes left and the game won. Fagan departed to a well-earned ovation from the away fans – and
even some home supporters joined in to acknowledge a fine display.
But if Barnet thought life might get a bit easier, Reid had other ideas with another outrageous flick to keep the ball in play and find Atkinson
for a blocked effort.
Nothing had been seen of McLeod at the other end. And when he did finally manage a tame shot straight at McLaughlin, it provoked a sarcastic
cheer from the fans in the main stand.
Nahki Wells had taken over from Fagan and had the chance to stretch his legs but a heavy first touch took the ball down the slope and he blazed
wide.
Barnet won a free-kick level with the box but the opportunity of a late consolation was wasted as Mark Byrne put far too much on the cross for
McLeod's header.
And City increased the agony as Wells collected Kozluk's long pass and calmly walked round O'Brien to tap into the empty net.
The humiliation was too much for Barnet, and McLeod and Hector had to be pulled apart by East, who then booked them both.
===========================
Flynn hit with thigh injury
Posted on: Wed 29 Feb 2012
City boss Phil Parkinson believes that skipper Michael Flynn could be out for the next couple of weeks at least after picking up a thigh injury
during City's 4-0 win at Barnet on Tuesday night.
Flynn 's injury - the only minus on an otherwise highly successful night for the Bantams at Underhill - saw the Welshman forced off after only 25
minutes of Bradford's contest with the Bees.
"He's picked up a thigh strain but we don't think it's a serious one," said Parkinson.
"He couldn't carry on though so we might be looking at 2 or 3 weeks (out).
"It is a blow, especially as Dave (Syers) is still out at the moment as well.
"I'd like to see Dave in that role behind Craig because I think he'd give the team a real goal threat.
"Unfortunately his back spasmed up again yesterday, so we are going to have to get to the bottom of the problem because it keeps flaring up."
===========================
Dagenham Tickets
Full article
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2605469,00.html
Match tickets for this Saturday's (3 March 2012) trip to Dagenham & Redbridge remain on sale for City supporters.
Travelling fans can take advantage of a special pre-match ticket price currently being offered by Dagenham ahead of City's match at the London
Borough of Barking and Dagenham Stadium.
...
The Bantams Ticket Office will initially have 267 tickets on sale for this fixture.
Admission prices:
Adults: £9.99
Senior Citizens (over 65's): £4.99
Student with NUS card: £4.99
Juniors (under 18): £4.99
Disabled supporters: £4.99
Any disabled supporters requiring wheelchair spaces need to contact Dagenham's Ticket Office on 0208 592 1549 (extension 21).
Subject to availability, tickets will be on sale from Dagenham on the day but prices will be considerably higher.
Admission prices:
Adults: £22.00
Senior Citizens (over 65's): £15.00
Student with NUS card: £15.00
Juniors (under 18): £15.00
Disabled supporters: £15.00
===========================
Barnet (0) 0
Bradford C (2) 4 Fagan pen 17, Atkinson 37, Reid 58, Wells 88
Att: 1,509
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Michael Flynn, thigh, estimated 2 weeks (scan on Friday)
Syers, back, short term
Ramsden, hamstring, short term
All 3 to miss Dagenham game
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Barnet - Bradford C:
Possession: 55 - 45%
Shots on target: 3 - 9
Shots off target: 2 - 7
Fouls: 5 - 12
Corners: 5 - 4
Ref: Roger East (Wiltshire).
Red card: Dennehy (Barnet) 16 min.
Yellow cards:
Barnet: McLeod (90 min), Hector (90 min).
Bradford C: Ravenhill (45 min), Jones (49 min).
BARNET: 18. Liam O'Brien, 17. Michael Hector, 30. Paul Downing, 5. Darren
Dennehy, 19. Jack Saville (49), 21. Clovis Kamdjo, 4. Mark Hughes, 10. Sam
Deering, 11. Ricky Holmes (46), 23. Izale McLeod, 8. Mark Byrne.
SUBS: 1. Dean Brill (GK), 12. Jordan Mustoe (49), 24. Charlie Taylor (46),
25. Alassane N'Diaye, 37. Jordan Obita.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 38. Andrew Davies, 6. Luke
Oliver, 36. Marcel Seip, 11. Deane Smalley, 14. Richard Ravenhill, 8.
Ritchie Jones, 32. Kyel Reid (85), 4. Michael Flynn (24), 39. Craig Fagan
(75).
SUBS: 15. Jamie Annerson (GK), 3. Matt Fry, 21. Nahki Wells (75), 22. Lee
Bullock (85), 30. Will Atkinson (24).
===========================
Tuesday evening match report
Report by Simon Parker (T&A)
City emphatically brushed aside ten-man Barnet with the most convincing of
away wins to take a major step towards safety.
Goals from the excellent Craig Fagan, Will Atkinson, Kyel Reid and Nahki
Wells destroyed the home side who had Darren Dennehy sent off early on.
And Barnet finished fighting among themselves as Izale McLeod, who was
anonymous up front, and Michael Hector had to be pulled apart.
Deane Smalley had an early effort saved by Liam O'Brien before Fagan struck
from the penalty spot after 17 minutes.
The striker, back in the side after recovering from a tight hamstring, had
twice been denied by Barnet defender Dennehy.
But Dennehy then brought Fagan down as he got behind him in the box and was
shown a straight red card.
Fagan sent another lob just wide but Barnet's ten men seemed to be coming
back into it.
Home hopes of a comeback were dashed, though, seven minutes before the break
when Atkinson turned in City's second from Reid's cross.
Marcel Seip nearly headed a third soon after the break but Reid made no
mistake with a glorious goal after bamboozling Paul Downing.
Wells completed the demolition job two minutes from the end finishing off
Rob Kozluk's long pass.
===========================
Wednesday morning match report
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9559039.print/
Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson jumping for joy
8:10am Wednesday 29th February 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson savoured City's biggest away league win for ten years and told his team: You were a joy to watch.
The Bantams crushed ten-man Barnet 4-0 at Underhill last night to leapfrog them into 18th.
Goals from Craig Fagan, Kyel Reid and subs Will Atkinson and Nahki Wells clinched a second road victory on the bounce.
It was their largest away win since beating Gilling-ham by the same score on Danny Cadamarteri's debut in February 2002.
City have also pulled seven points clear of Saturday's opponents Dagenham in the second relegation spot – and have games in hand on all the sides
around them and a much better goal difference.
Parkinson said: "We've still got a lot of hard work ahead of us and every game is a challenge but this really sets us up nicely for what is going
to be a tough one at Dagenham.
"We were terrific and I thought the experience and professionalism was a joy to watch."
Fagan, who missed the Hereford draw because of a tight hamstring, led the line superbly.
Barnet centre half Darren Dennehy was sent off early for a professional foul on him and he combined with Reid to give the home defence a torrid
night.
Parkinson added: "Fages looked like someone who has played at a higher level. He's got that football intelligence and gave their two young centre
halves a really difficult game."
City also claimed their first clean sheet since Boxing Day. Izale McLeod, League Two's leading scorer, hardly got involved – and ended up trying
to fight team-mate Michael Hector in frustration.
Parkinson said: "People talk about the goals we scored but, for me, the back four were excellent. We scored some good individual goals but the
solidness of the back four was really pleasing.
"We've conceded the first goal in quite a few games recently, even when we've started well, but I thought they did a really good job."
The only downer was an injury to skipper Michael Flynn, who lasted only 24 minutes before suffering a thigh strain. But Parkinson felt his
replacement Atkinson took his chance and chipped in with the first goal of his loan from Hull.
"We know that Will's a good player," said the City chief. "He's got that ability to get into those areas and nick important goals and he showed
that."
Barnet defender Hector later apologised for the last-minute scuffle with McLeod when both players had to be pulled apart.
He said on Twitter: "I should never have done what I did."
===========================
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/9559038.Bradford_City_on_road_to_glory_as_they_motor_past_Barnet/r/?ref=rss
Bradford City on road to glory as they motor past Barnet
7:10am Wednesday 29th February 2012 in Sport By Simon Parker
Barnet 0 Bradford City 4
City will travel the equivalent of Bradford to Cairo – around 2,500 miles – for away games over the next month.
But the long periods on the motorway will fly by if they continue to perform like this on their travels.
The 17-hour round trip to Underhill which kicked off their marathon turned into a stroll in the park.
Barnet spent 74 minutes with a man down after Darren Dennehy's red card and the visitors took full advantage.
Craig Fagan, back in the side after missing Saturday, got the ball rolling with a penalty and was a huge figure up front. So too was Kyel Reid,
whose goal humiliated his marker.
The second scorer was sub Will Atkinson, who clearly revelled in the "hole" role after captain Michael Flynn limped off.
Barnet's tempers boiled over to the extent that team-mates Izale McLeod and Michael Hector had to be separated as they attempted their own
version of David Haye and Dereck Chisora.
Fagan and Luke Oliver had recovered from injury and both came straight back as Parkinson stuck closely to the line-up that performed so
impressively on their last away trip at Torquay.
The only difference from ten days earlier was Rob Kozluk at right back for Simon Ramsden, who continues to recover from a tight hamstring.
Saturday's goal hero David Syers was another absentee after his back problem flared up again and he did not travel down.
With Fagan back to lead the attack, there was a more physical edge to the visitors after the frustrating draw with Hereford.
City mounted the first effort on goal after eight minutes as Michael Flynn controlled Jon McLaughlin's long free-kick to pick out Deane Smalley.
His shot was well struck but Liam O'Brien beat it away at the near post.
Then Fagan – who was wearing gloves and short sleeves – received Reid's angled ball with a good first touch in the box but Dennehy made a
perfectly-timed tackle to intercept.
The same combo were involved in City's next attack and once again Dennehy foiled Fagan, blocking his shot behind for a corner.
But Fagan had his revenge in the 16th minute – and how. Getting the wrong side of the Barnet centre half, he was sent tumbling and Dennehy was
given his marching orders by referee Roger East.
Fagan picked himself up and coolly sent O'Brien the wrong way from the penalty spot.
Strangely, it was Barnet who initially reacted better to the goal and Mark Byrne's curling corner was anxiously ushered across the City goal.
City were forced into a change after 24 minutes when Flynn appeared to pull a muscle and went down. He came straight off as Atkinson took over
the role playing off Fagan.
Fagan was proving a real handful and latched on to a long ball from Luke Oliver to slip between two defenders. His lob beat the advancing O'Brien
but dropped a couple of yards wide of goal.
Barnet's ten men, though, were coming into it with several corners, although Jack Saville's tame header from one bounced straight into
McLaughlin.
But City took a firm grip on the game with a second goal seven minutes before the break. Reid crossed to the far post, where Atkinson turned the
ball past O'Brien.
It left the depleted home side with a mountain seemingly as steep as the infamous Underhill slope to climb.
Parkinson stormed on to the pitch to protest after Reid's run clear was called back for an offside call in City's favour. But the boss must have
been delighted at the way his side had seized control of proceedings.
The only blot in the closing stages of the half was a booking for Ricky Ravenhill. It was the stand-in skipper's ninth – and leaves him just one
shy of an automatic two-game ban.
Lawrie Sanchez changed strikers at the break, with Charlie Taylor replacing Ricky Holmes, who had done little. Neither had McLeod, the division's
leading hitman.
Ritchie Jones joined midfield partner Ravenhill in East's book before Barnet had to make a second switch as Jack Saville limped off.
City nearly had a third goal in the 54th minute but Marcel Seip's header from an inswinging free-kick from Reid took the faintest deflection wide
of the post with O'Brien helpless.
The visitors continued to threaten, first through Jones and then a mazy run from Reid which took him past Mustoe and Clovis Kamdjo before an ugly
shot cleared the roof of the stand.
City's third arrived just before the hour with a sublime finish from Reid. Taking Fagan's lay-off, Reid ran at Paul Downing and threw him off
balance with a sway of the hips before drilling the ball into the far corner.
Downing had been so embarrassed that he stood there with his shirt pulled over his head.
City were in complete command and Fagan almost had a fourth after good work on the touchline from Atkinson.
Parkinson wisely decided to withdraw him with 15 minutes left and the game won. Fagan departed to a well-earned ovation from the away fans – and
even some home supporters joined in to acknowledge a fine display.
But if Barnet thought life might get a bit easier, Reid had other ideas with another outrageous flick to keep the ball in play and find Atkinson
for a blocked effort.
Nothing had been seen of McLeod at the other end. And when he did finally manage a tame shot straight at McLaughlin, it provoked a sarcastic
cheer from the fans in the main stand.
Nahki Wells had taken over from Fagan and had the chance to stretch his legs but a heavy first touch took the ball down the slope and he blazed
wide.
Barnet won a free-kick level with the box but the opportunity of a late consolation was wasted as Mark Byrne put far too much on the cross for
McLeod's header.
And City increased the agony as Wells collected Kozluk's long pass and calmly walked round O'Brien to tap into the empty net.
The humiliation was too much for Barnet, and McLeod and Hector had to be pulled apart by East, who then booked them both.
===========================
Flynn hit with thigh injury
Posted on: Wed 29 Feb 2012
City boss Phil Parkinson believes that skipper Michael Flynn could be out for the next couple of weeks at least after picking up a thigh injury
during City's 4-0 win at Barnet on Tuesday night.
Flynn 's injury - the only minus on an otherwise highly successful night for the Bantams at Underhill - saw the Welshman forced off after only 25
minutes of Bradford's contest with the Bees.
"He's picked up a thigh strain but we don't think it's a serious one," said Parkinson.
"He couldn't carry on though so we might be looking at 2 or 3 weeks (out).
"It is a blow, especially as Dave (Syers) is still out at the moment as well.
"I'd like to see Dave in that role behind Craig because I think he'd give the team a real goal threat.
"Unfortunately his back spasmed up again yesterday, so we are going to have to get to the bottom of the problem because it keeps flaring up."
===========================
Dagenham Tickets
Full article
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2605469,00.html
Match tickets for this Saturday's (3 March 2012) trip to Dagenham & Redbridge remain on sale for City supporters.
Travelling fans can take advantage of a special pre-match ticket price currently being offered by Dagenham ahead of City's match at the London
Borough of Barking and Dagenham Stadium.
...
The Bantams Ticket Office will initially have 267 tickets on sale for this fixture.
Admission prices:
Adults: £9.99
Senior Citizens (over 65's): £4.99
Student with NUS card: £4.99
Juniors (under 18): £4.99
Disabled supporters: £4.99
Any disabled supporters requiring wheelchair spaces need to contact Dagenham's Ticket Office on 0208 592 1549 (extension 21).
Subject to availability, tickets will be on sale from Dagenham on the day but prices will be considerably higher.
Admission prices:
Adults: £22.00
Senior Citizens (over 65's): £15.00
Student with NUS card: £15.00
Juniors (under 18): £15.00
Disabled supporters: £15.00
===========================
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
L2 D1-1 (H) Hereford, Saturday February 25, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
NPower League Two
Bradford C (0) 1 Syers 88
Hereford U (0) 1 Anthony 82
Att: 17,014
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2624682,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17170203?#asset
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Loans - In
Jamie Annerson, Rotherham, initial 28-day loan
===========================
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
City Goal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJU_ix862u0&feature=share
===========================
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Bradford C – Hereford
Possession: 62 - 38
Shots on target: 3 - 3
Shots off target: 5 - 1
Fouls: 12 - 8
Corners: 9 - 8
Ref: Andy Haines (Tyne and Wear).
Red card: Purkiss 90+1 (Hereford) 2nd yellow.
Yellow cards:
Bradford C: None.
Hereford: Purkiss (64 min), Colbeck (90+5).
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 38. Andrew Davies, 22. Lee
Bullock, 36. Marcel Seip, 11. Deane Smalley (81), 8. Ritchie Jones, 14.
Richard Ravenhill, 32. Kyel Reid, 4. Michael Flynn (65), 21. Nahki Wells
(89).
SUBS: 15. Jamie Annerson (GK), 3. Matt Fry, 10. Ross Hannah (89), 23. David
Syers (65), 30. Will Atkinson (81).
HEREFORD: 28. David Cornell, 12. Ben Purkiss, 22. Byron Anthony, 34. Will
Evans, 18. Simon Clist, 21. Tom Barkhuizen, 6. Robert Purdie, 11. Kenny Lunt
(88), 8. Nicky Featherstone, 19. Lyle Taylor (70), 10. Delroy Facey.
SUBS: 1. Adam Bartlett (GK), 4. Harry Pell (88), 9. Yoann Arquin, 17. Joe
Colbeck (70), 25. Nathan Elder.
===========================
Saturday evening match report
Report by Simon Parker (T&A)
David Syers came off the bench to rescue a valuable point for City in front
of League Two's biggest crowd of the season.
More than 17,000 took advantage of the £1 ticket offer but the Valley Parade
party looked to be going flat when Byron Anthony headed Hereford ahead with
seven minutes left.
But Syers equalised with a header of his own four minutes later as a dour
game finished in dramatic fashion.
The draw was City's fourth in a row at home but it stopped Hereford from
cutting the gap between the clubs to a point in the battle for survival.
Will Evans had threatened to puncture the mood in the first minute as he
forced an agile save from Jon McLaughlin.
But the crowd - and Phil Parkinson - were screaming for a penalty when Nahki
Wells appeared to have his legs taken away by Hereford skipper Rob Purdie.
Kyel Reid stretched David Cornell after an exciting burst with a
cross-cum-shot which the keeper palmed over the bar.
McLaughlin had to be alert at the other end to deny Nicky Featherstone
before City had another spot-kick call waved away for a handball.
But it was not a great spectacle for the bumper turn-out with too many long
balls being hopefully pumped forward.
City went close five minutes after the re-start when Andrew Davies headed
over Reid's cross. Lee Bullock, in for Luke Oliver at the back, fired over
from another set-piece.
Hereford won several corners without threatening and City's own attempts to
press for a breakthrough came to nothing.
And City were caught by a sucker punch seven minutes from time as Anthony
headed home from Delroy Facey's cross after the home side failed to clear a
throw-in.
Syers had a shot cleared off the line by Lunt - but the sub made no mistake
from the resulting corner, heading home Reid's kick.
With five minutes of added time, City sensed a winner and Marcel Seip had a
side-foot effort saved on the line after Ben Purkiss was sent off for a
second yellow.
===========================
Monday morning match report
Back to the drawing board for Bradford City
7:40am Monday 27th February 2012
By Simon Parker
Bradford City 1 Hereford United 1
The small knot of Hereford fans did not even make up one per cent of a crowd figure far and away the best in League Two this season.
But the 111 of an extraordinary 17,014 will probably argue that they still got their money's worth from paying the full whack.
While everyone else got in for a £1 – swelling the regular attendance by around 7,000 extras – the travelling supporters had coughed up the usual £20 admission.
For that they got the point that they would have settled for before leaving home early that morning.
For City, it was that familiar mix of exasperation and frustration. Possibly with a sprinkling of relief given the timing of their equaliser.
Valley Parade saw its fourth successive draw, thanks to a David Syers rescue act three minutes from the end.
That at least ensured that supporters departed on a more positive note after an uninspiring afternoon.
On the plus side, the four-point status quo with Hereford was maintained and Northampton's home defeat means City inched five clear of the drop zone.
But it was unsatisfying viewing for a crowd that was only 1,000 less than QPR's London derby with Fulham in the Premier League.
The hugely-impressive attendance was nearly 2,000 up on the same offer this time last year against Stockport. And once again a struggling visiting side were spurred on by the occasion.
Hereford boss Jamie Pitman, showing little sign of the pressure building up over his own position, said: "If you don't want to play in games like this with that crowd, then you've a problem.
"We're used to (crowds of) 2,500 people but this is what you're in football for. The lads showed really good character to come through because there was a really good atmosphere."
For a pound, you could have turned up at 4.30 and not really missed anything. All the excitement and drama was once again packed into the closing stages.
City have now scored ten league goals from the 85th minute onwards. Their staying power cannot be knocked.
Hereford had shared the Cedar Court hotel the night before with a cage-fighting competition. Their approach certainly packed plenty of grapple and grunt.
The Bulls came to kill the game and smother City with their five-man midfield. It was a job they did well.
Formation-wise, it was similar to Torquay and Parkinson lined up his men in the same way he had done at Plainmoor, with Michael Flynn playing just behind the one striker. But significantly there was no Craig Fagan to spearhead the attack as he rested a tight hamstring.
Nahki Wells got the nod in his place and proved an irritant for the Hereford back four before tiring. But his game is all about pace and running in behind the back four, not competing for high balls against taller, stronger markers.
With the Valley Parade pitch as unresponsive to proper play as ever, the tendency to knock it long was too often there and left the Bermudian with a series of mismatches.
When City did get the ball down for him, Wells weaved and wriggled to find holes. How different the afternoon might have been if referee Andy Haines had picked up on Rob Purdie's clear foul on him inside the box after six minutes.
Shaping to shoot, Wells had his legs taken from under him by the Hereford skipper. But the one man who mattered was the only one not to think penalty.
Parkinson went loco on the touchline with the fourth official – and was soon arguing again when Haines saw nothing when Ricky Ravenhill's shot appeared to be handled.
"I didn't think we got too much given our way seeing as we were the home side with 17,000 fans behind us," the manager said later.
Had City got an early break, Parkinson's approach would have been justified with Hereford forced to come out of their shell.
Instead the game swiftly turned into the uncompromising slog that he had warned the fans to expect.
Kyel Reid offered the one real attacking outlet as he carried over some of his form from the previous week. The highlight of a forgettable first half was provided by a jink through Tom Barkhuizen's challenge and drifting cross-turned-shot which David Cornell had to finger over the bar.
There was a buzz when the winger got the ball from fans desperate for something to get excited about. In the main, it was the stodgiest of fare, with Hereford happy to sit on the draw they had started with.
Deane Smalley was again played wide on the right, rather than in the centre forward's role he prefers, and carried a threat in the opening 45 minutes before marker Simon Clist eventually got to grips with him.
But Flynn was far less effective than the week before and it was no great shock when he made way for Syers soon after the hour.
By then, Andrew Davies had put a free header over the bar but generally chances remained at a premium.
The Stoke stopper demanded the ball again when he rumbled forward and teed up Wells. But, not for the first time, the striker wanted a touch too many and the door was quickly slammed shut.
Smalley lashed into the Kop before the deadlock was suddenly broken at the other end.
Hereford had racked up the corners without offering anything more than two first-half pops at Jon McLaughlin. But their goal, much to Parkinson's chagrin, came from a long throw-in.
Barkhuizen's missiles are an effective weapon for Hereford and Parkinson had worked with his defenders during the week to guard against them. But Davies failed to clear the danger and Delroy Facey crossed for Byron Anthony to float a header into the top corner.
Like the Port Vale game, City were seeking another late, late rescue act. Syers thought he had provided it after Cornell misjudged a cross but Kenny Lunt sliced off his line. Will Atkinson put the corner right on the spot for the sub to ram home.
With five minutes tacked on, City piled forward and Ben Purkiss was sent off for his second booking after fouling Reid a yard outside the box.
Then a loose ball dropped invitingly to Marcel Seip ten yards out but the Dutchman went for placement instead of power and Cornell was able to smother his tame side-foot on the line.
The Hereford fans, who had earlier cheekily chanted "we forgot that you were here", had got some reward from their day out. They will be back for more.
You wonder how many of the floating fans in the home stands will feel the same.
===========================
Barnet v Bradford City: Parkinson taking a gruelling route to survival
http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/bradford-city/barnet_v_bradford_city_parkinson_taking_a_gruelling_route_to_survival_1_4291914?
Published on Tuesday 28 February 2012 08:12
AS Bradford City prepare to eat up the miles in the coming weeks, Phil Parkinson has urged his side to put their foot down and secure League Two survival as quickly as possible.
Tonight's rearranged trip to Barnet kicks off a gruelling run of games that will see the squad travel 2,532 miles in just 32 days.
It is a marathon schedule that includes visits to Dagenham & Redbridge, AFC Wimbledon, Aldershot Town, Crewe Alexandra and Plymouth Argyle before the end of March.
Throw in four home games during the same period and it is clear Bradford are in for a hectic time and Parkinson is adamant his team must take advantage by racking up the points to go with the miles.
He said: "We still need to get wins on board as quickly as possible. We have a points total we are working towards and the next month being such a busy one gives us a chance to get there.
"It is all about staying out of trouble. The sooner we can secure our safety, the better for everyone as we can then plan properly for next season."
Saturday's draw at home to Hereford United means City have lost just twice in 11 games, a run that has lifted the club five points clear of the drop zone.
With only Northampton Town of the bottom seven sides not being in action, tonight's trip to Barnet is one where City are desperate to repeat the performance of their last away game when Torquay United were beaten 2-1 at Plainmoor on February 18.
Parkinson added: "There was a lot of good quality at Torquay and I was pleased with what I saw. The challenge now is to produce that week in, week out.
"There is no point doing it as a one-off and then that's it. To be fair to the players, their performances have been better lately."
Tonight's game should have taken place on January 7 but was postponed due to City still being in the FA Cup.
Parkinson added: "When a game is called off, I always want it to be played as soon as possible. What you don't want is a backlog of games.
"Games in hand are great but they don't necessarily mean points on the board.
"Barnet have done well. I saw them on Tuesday night (at Oxford United when they lost 2-1) and they looked a decent team. They have a good young squad and put in a good performance, but they were unfortunate not to be rewarded with all three points."
Last six games: Barnet WLDLLL, Bradford City DDLDWD.
Referee: R East (Wiltshire).
Last time: Barnet 0 Bradford City 2; October 9, 2010; League Two.
===========================
Bradford C (0) 1 Syers 88
Hereford U (0) 1 Anthony 82
Att: 17,014
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2624682,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17170203?#asset
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Loans - In
Jamie Annerson, Rotherham, initial 28-day loan
===========================
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
City Goal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJU_ix862u0&feature=share
===========================
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
Stats: Bradford C – Hereford
Possession: 62 - 38
Shots on target: 3 - 3
Shots off target: 5 - 1
Fouls: 12 - 8
Corners: 9 - 8
Ref: Andy Haines (Tyne and Wear).
Red card: Purkiss 90+1 (Hereford) 2nd yellow.
Yellow cards:
Bradford C: None.
Hereford: Purkiss (64 min), Colbeck (90+5).
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 38. Andrew Davies, 22. Lee
Bullock, 36. Marcel Seip, 11. Deane Smalley (81), 8. Ritchie Jones, 14.
Richard Ravenhill, 32. Kyel Reid, 4. Michael Flynn (65), 21. Nahki Wells
(89).
SUBS: 15. Jamie Annerson (GK), 3. Matt Fry, 10. Ross Hannah (89), 23. David
Syers (65), 30. Will Atkinson (81).
HEREFORD: 28. David Cornell, 12. Ben Purkiss, 22. Byron Anthony, 34. Will
Evans, 18. Simon Clist, 21. Tom Barkhuizen, 6. Robert Purdie, 11. Kenny Lunt
(88), 8. Nicky Featherstone, 19. Lyle Taylor (70), 10. Delroy Facey.
SUBS: 1. Adam Bartlett (GK), 4. Harry Pell (88), 9. Yoann Arquin, 17. Joe
Colbeck (70), 25. Nathan Elder.
===========================
Saturday evening match report
Report by Simon Parker (T&A)
David Syers came off the bench to rescue a valuable point for City in front
of League Two's biggest crowd of the season.
More than 17,000 took advantage of the £1 ticket offer but the Valley Parade
party looked to be going flat when Byron Anthony headed Hereford ahead with
seven minutes left.
But Syers equalised with a header of his own four minutes later as a dour
game finished in dramatic fashion.
The draw was City's fourth in a row at home but it stopped Hereford from
cutting the gap between the clubs to a point in the battle for survival.
Will Evans had threatened to puncture the mood in the first minute as he
forced an agile save from Jon McLaughlin.
But the crowd - and Phil Parkinson - were screaming for a penalty when Nahki
Wells appeared to have his legs taken away by Hereford skipper Rob Purdie.
Kyel Reid stretched David Cornell after an exciting burst with a
cross-cum-shot which the keeper palmed over the bar.
McLaughlin had to be alert at the other end to deny Nicky Featherstone
before City had another spot-kick call waved away for a handball.
But it was not a great spectacle for the bumper turn-out with too many long
balls being hopefully pumped forward.
City went close five minutes after the re-start when Andrew Davies headed
over Reid's cross. Lee Bullock, in for Luke Oliver at the back, fired over
from another set-piece.
Hereford won several corners without threatening and City's own attempts to
press for a breakthrough came to nothing.
And City were caught by a sucker punch seven minutes from time as Anthony
headed home from Delroy Facey's cross after the home side failed to clear a
throw-in.
Syers had a shot cleared off the line by Lunt - but the sub made no mistake
from the resulting corner, heading home Reid's kick.
With five minutes of added time, City sensed a winner and Marcel Seip had a
side-foot effort saved on the line after Ben Purkiss was sent off for a
second yellow.
===========================
Monday morning match report
Back to the drawing board for Bradford City
7:40am Monday 27th February 2012
By Simon Parker
Bradford City 1 Hereford United 1
The small knot of Hereford fans did not even make up one per cent of a crowd figure far and away the best in League Two this season.
But the 111 of an extraordinary 17,014 will probably argue that they still got their money's worth from paying the full whack.
While everyone else got in for a £1 – swelling the regular attendance by around 7,000 extras – the travelling supporters had coughed up the usual £20 admission.
For that they got the point that they would have settled for before leaving home early that morning.
For City, it was that familiar mix of exasperation and frustration. Possibly with a sprinkling of relief given the timing of their equaliser.
Valley Parade saw its fourth successive draw, thanks to a David Syers rescue act three minutes from the end.
That at least ensured that supporters departed on a more positive note after an uninspiring afternoon.
On the plus side, the four-point status quo with Hereford was maintained and Northampton's home defeat means City inched five clear of the drop zone.
But it was unsatisfying viewing for a crowd that was only 1,000 less than QPR's London derby with Fulham in the Premier League.
The hugely-impressive attendance was nearly 2,000 up on the same offer this time last year against Stockport. And once again a struggling visiting side were spurred on by the occasion.
Hereford boss Jamie Pitman, showing little sign of the pressure building up over his own position, said: "If you don't want to play in games like this with that crowd, then you've a problem.
"We're used to (crowds of) 2,500 people but this is what you're in football for. The lads showed really good character to come through because there was a really good atmosphere."
For a pound, you could have turned up at 4.30 and not really missed anything. All the excitement and drama was once again packed into the closing stages.
City have now scored ten league goals from the 85th minute onwards. Their staying power cannot be knocked.
Hereford had shared the Cedar Court hotel the night before with a cage-fighting competition. Their approach certainly packed plenty of grapple and grunt.
The Bulls came to kill the game and smother City with their five-man midfield. It was a job they did well.
Formation-wise, it was similar to Torquay and Parkinson lined up his men in the same way he had done at Plainmoor, with Michael Flynn playing just behind the one striker. But significantly there was no Craig Fagan to spearhead the attack as he rested a tight hamstring.
Nahki Wells got the nod in his place and proved an irritant for the Hereford back four before tiring. But his game is all about pace and running in behind the back four, not competing for high balls against taller, stronger markers.
With the Valley Parade pitch as unresponsive to proper play as ever, the tendency to knock it long was too often there and left the Bermudian with a series of mismatches.
When City did get the ball down for him, Wells weaved and wriggled to find holes. How different the afternoon might have been if referee Andy Haines had picked up on Rob Purdie's clear foul on him inside the box after six minutes.
Shaping to shoot, Wells had his legs taken from under him by the Hereford skipper. But the one man who mattered was the only one not to think penalty.
Parkinson went loco on the touchline with the fourth official – and was soon arguing again when Haines saw nothing when Ricky Ravenhill's shot appeared to be handled.
"I didn't think we got too much given our way seeing as we were the home side with 17,000 fans behind us," the manager said later.
Had City got an early break, Parkinson's approach would have been justified with Hereford forced to come out of their shell.
Instead the game swiftly turned into the uncompromising slog that he had warned the fans to expect.
Kyel Reid offered the one real attacking outlet as he carried over some of his form from the previous week. The highlight of a forgettable first half was provided by a jink through Tom Barkhuizen's challenge and drifting cross-turned-shot which David Cornell had to finger over the bar.
There was a buzz when the winger got the ball from fans desperate for something to get excited about. In the main, it was the stodgiest of fare, with Hereford happy to sit on the draw they had started with.
Deane Smalley was again played wide on the right, rather than in the centre forward's role he prefers, and carried a threat in the opening 45 minutes before marker Simon Clist eventually got to grips with him.
But Flynn was far less effective than the week before and it was no great shock when he made way for Syers soon after the hour.
By then, Andrew Davies had put a free header over the bar but generally chances remained at a premium.
The Stoke stopper demanded the ball again when he rumbled forward and teed up Wells. But, not for the first time, the striker wanted a touch too many and the door was quickly slammed shut.
Smalley lashed into the Kop before the deadlock was suddenly broken at the other end.
Hereford had racked up the corners without offering anything more than two first-half pops at Jon McLaughlin. But their goal, much to Parkinson's chagrin, came from a long throw-in.
Barkhuizen's missiles are an effective weapon for Hereford and Parkinson had worked with his defenders during the week to guard against them. But Davies failed to clear the danger and Delroy Facey crossed for Byron Anthony to float a header into the top corner.
Like the Port Vale game, City were seeking another late, late rescue act. Syers thought he had provided it after Cornell misjudged a cross but Kenny Lunt sliced off his line. Will Atkinson put the corner right on the spot for the sub to ram home.
With five minutes tacked on, City piled forward and Ben Purkiss was sent off for his second booking after fouling Reid a yard outside the box.
Then a loose ball dropped invitingly to Marcel Seip ten yards out but the Dutchman went for placement instead of power and Cornell was able to smother his tame side-foot on the line.
The Hereford fans, who had earlier cheekily chanted "we forgot that you were here", had got some reward from their day out. They will be back for more.
You wonder how many of the floating fans in the home stands will feel the same.
===========================
Barnet v Bradford City: Parkinson taking a gruelling route to survival
http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/bradford-city/barnet_v_bradford_city_parkinson_taking_a_gruelling_route_to_survival_1_4291914?
Published on Tuesday 28 February 2012 08:12
AS Bradford City prepare to eat up the miles in the coming weeks, Phil Parkinson has urged his side to put their foot down and secure League Two survival as quickly as possible.
Tonight's rearranged trip to Barnet kicks off a gruelling run of games that will see the squad travel 2,532 miles in just 32 days.
It is a marathon schedule that includes visits to Dagenham & Redbridge, AFC Wimbledon, Aldershot Town, Crewe Alexandra and Plymouth Argyle before the end of March.
Throw in four home games during the same period and it is clear Bradford are in for a hectic time and Parkinson is adamant his team must take advantage by racking up the points to go with the miles.
He said: "We still need to get wins on board as quickly as possible. We have a points total we are working towards and the next month being such a busy one gives us a chance to get there.
"It is all about staying out of trouble. The sooner we can secure our safety, the better for everyone as we can then plan properly for next season."
Saturday's draw at home to Hereford United means City have lost just twice in 11 games, a run that has lifted the club five points clear of the drop zone.
With only Northampton Town of the bottom seven sides not being in action, tonight's trip to Barnet is one where City are desperate to repeat the performance of their last away game when Torquay United were beaten 2-1 at Plainmoor on February 18.
Parkinson added: "There was a lot of good quality at Torquay and I was pleased with what I saw. The challenge now is to produce that week in, week out.
"There is no point doing it as a one-off and then that's it. To be fair to the players, their performances have been better lately."
Tonight's game should have taken place on January 7 but was postponed due to City still being in the FA Cup.
Parkinson added: "When a game is called off, I always want it to be played as soon as possible. What you don't want is a backlog of games.
"Games in hand are great but they don't necessarily mean points on the board.
"Barnet have done well. I saw them on Tuesday night (at Oxford United when they lost 2-1) and they looked a decent team. They have a good young squad and put in a good performance, but they were unfortunate not to be rewarded with all three points."
Last six games: Barnet WLDLLL, Bradford City DDLDWD.
Referee: R East (Wiltshire).
Last time: Barnet 0 Bradford City 2; October 9, 2010; League Two.
===========================
Monday, February 20, 2012
L2 W2-1 (A) Torquay, Saturday February 18, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
http://ow.ly/i/sZlM Our view of the pitch (Courtesy: City Gent)
http://ow.ly/i/sZIG Players warming up before the game (Courtesy: City Gent)
http://ow.ly/i/sZPl Players take to the field in the worst of the weather (Courtesy: City Gent)
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17092136?#asset
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Hanson, Injured, end of March
Loans - Out
Matt Duke (goalkeeper ) to Northampton Town until the end of the season.
===========================
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
Torquay United: Olejnik; Oastler, Saah, Ellis, Nicholson; Morris; McPhee (Yeoman 77), Mansell, O'Kane, Stevens; Atieno (Howe 59).
Unused substitutes: Duke, Kozluk.
Bradford City: McLaughlin, Ramsden, Oliver, Davies, Seip; Flynn, Jones, Ravenhill; Smalley (Syers 76), Reid (Atkinson 90), Fagan (Wells 85). Unused substitutes: Rowe-Turner, MacDonald.
Referee: P Miller (Beds).
Torquay Bradford
10(5) Shots (on Goal) 10(2)
8 Fouls 10
4 Corner Kicks 6
1 Offsides 4
51% Time of Poss. 49%
0 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0
3 Saves 8
===========================
Monday morning match report
Craig Fagan and Kyel Reid pull Bradford City trigger as Phil Parkinson's plan is executed to perfection
6:50am Monday 20th February 2012
By Simon Parker
Torquay United 1, City 2
The signs all over Torquay seafront warn against feeding the gulls. "They may look harmless but can be very dangerous," goes the message to unsuspecting holiday makers. But it could equally apply to visiting football teams.
The unheralded Gulls of Torquay United have feasted on all and sundry over the last three months. And since the turn of the year, their form had been ravenous with seven wins on the bounce.
A team with the second-worst travelling record in the division should have been easy prey.
Phil Parkinson knew Torquay's threat, having watched a DVD of their latest triumph during the monster coach trek to the south west. But he was equally confident that his team, without a win since December, could upset the odds.
That conviction was built on the strong personalities that had made the trip. Glancing round at the likes of skipper Michael Flynn, Simon Ramsden and Craig Fagan – not to mention Andrew Davies, Marcel Seip and Ricky Ravenhill – filled him with belief.
Flynn had not kicked a ball since being rushed into hospital just before Christmas with a stomach virus. Ramsden, the man who never loses, had not started since breaking a toe in City's last win on New Year's Eve.
And Fagan had not featured at all in the midweek draw with Port Vale after being dropped completely.
But Parkinson realised they were exactly the characters needed to swat away those pesky Gulls.
With no James Hanson, he devised a game plan to use Fagan as the attacking fulcrum supported by Kyel Reid on one flank and using Deane Smalley's height against the smaller left back on the other. Flynn would act as the go-between linking Fagan with the midfield.
It worked an absolute treat. Reid was in the mood to take on all-comers, while Smalley won all the headers from long clearances that are normally aimed at Hanson.
And in between them, Fagan took full advantage of some improved service and made sure the ball stuck.
With a goal and an assist, he made his point to Parkinson – just as the boss had hoped.
Parkinson revealed there is a "possibility" of summoning more loan cover for the crocked Hanson and has made a few exploratory calls. But on Saturday's showing, Fagan made it plain that he is the man for the job.
Parkinson said: "Craig was outstanding but that's the type of player he is.
"It's a blow losing Hans and we will miss him. He was almost unplayable in that period around the time we didn't get Paul Benson.
"He was outstanding in those games at Southend and Gillingham and in the FA Cup against Wimbledon. He's important to us.
"But we spoke about it in training and said we've got to get more quality into the front man's feet. We did that with Craig and it stuck.
"He was disappointed to be left out last week. He could have sulked and let his head go down.
"But it's one thing footballers being disappointed, they've still got to work hard in training. Do that so when you get your chance again, you're ready to take it. Craig took that opportunity and his performance was first class."
The sea air clearly agrees with the Bantams, given their only previous away win had been just as unexpected but equally deserved at Southend on the Essex coast.
If nothing else it bodes well for the trip to Plymouth which will bring down the curtain on the manic March schedule.
They gave Torquay an early morsel when Danny Stevens netted through a scrum of players from the home side's first shot.
It could have been game over at that point. Torquay had not conceded at home for three months – and won 16 of the 17 games when they had previously scored first.
But City, who had begun well, refused to be knock out of their stride. Fagan swished at Smalley's accurate cross, Reid's shot was blocked, Ravenhill got it straight back to him and the winger teed up Fagan for a simple tap-in.
It was incredibly the first goal scored against Torquay at Plainmoor for 569 minutes – and City needed only three more to get another one.
The second was also a bit special. Reid was confronted with two defenders on the edge of the box so he chipped a pass at Fagan, who cushioned perfectly as his team-mate span around the back to take the return pass and lash past a stunned Bobby Olejnik in goal.
Reid doesn't score many – this was only his third for City – but they are always tasty.
Torquay were stunned, not just by the quality of the go-ahead goal but the stern resistance from a team whose lowly league position had suggested anything but.
They couldn't cope with Reid and were losing the physical battle against Smalley and Fagan.
City should have increased their lead by the break but Ricky Ravenhill missed the target from a promising position after more destructive work from Reid.
Torquay got a half-time rollicking from Martin Ling and found an edge after the break. But still City went close as Flynn curled narrowly wide.
The visitors got a big break when Mark Ellis was left unmarked from a free-kick – the only defensive lapse of the day – but he headed against the post.
Fagan should have settled matters after Ravenhill sent him clear on goal but his clip over Olejnik carried too much power and cleared the bar.
No matter. City defended like demons under frenzied late pressure; wherever Torquay put the ball there was a head in the way or a long leg to clear.
These Gulls would have to go hungry. The visitors were making their long journey home with all the spoils in the bag.
===========================
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/9541681.Former_Bradford_City_striker_Devitt_dies__aged_74/
Former Bradford City player Malcolm Devitt has died aged 74 after a fall in Cyprus.
he fell from a ladder while doing some maintenance work to one of their holiday lets and never recovered from the resultant brain injury.
Besides his widow and daughter, he also leaves a son Andrew and several grand- children.
Full article http://bit.ly/wBp343
===========================
Northampton Town have signed Bradford goalkeeper Matt Duke on loan until
the end of the season.
The 34-year-old played in the Premier League with Hull and has made 13
appearances for the Bantams in the current campaign.
Manager Aidy Boothroyd told BBC Radio
Northampton:
"He's worked with [coach] Tim Flowers before, who speaks highly of him.
He's exactly what we need.
"I'm extremely happy to have a player of his calibre and character join us."
Duke made 59 appearances in seven years for Hull prior to his move to
Bradford last summer.
He also counts Derby County, Wycombe Wanderers, Stockport and Burton
amongst his former clubs.
"In terms of character, it's one of the most important positions on the
pitch," added Boothroyd.
"Particularly when a team is under pressure, you need to have a strong man,
somebody who will lead by example and can boss one or two others about.
"He brings all those things to the team."
The Cobblers saw previous loan keeper Chris Weale leave the field with a
knee injury in the 1-0 win over AFC
Wimbledon ,
and he subsequentlyreturned to parent club Leicester City.
Their first choice custodian, Shane Higgs, sustained an Achilles injury in
January.
===========================
Newcastle striker given trial by Bradford City
City are taking a look at Newcastle striker Dan Taylor.
The 18-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer, is having a trial to impress Phil Parkinson.
He will play in the closed-doors reserve game at Chesterfield tomorrow (tuesday 21st).
http://www.nufc.co.uk/page/Teams/AcademyPlayerProfile/0,,10278~1892053,00.html
===========================
Thursday, February 16, 2012
(H) D1-1 Port Vale Tuesday February 14, 2012. K.O. 7:45PM.
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2611817,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16921741
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Andy Haworth, extension to April 14 2012
===========================
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Summary of articles / Re-arranged games / Be a city player
===========================
BRADFORD CITY SIGN FRY
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Bradford City have signed left back Matt Fry on a short-term contract for
the rest of the season.
Fry, 21, was a free agent after leaving West Ham at the end of last month
and has been training with the club. The six foot defender previously played
under Phil Parkinson during two loan spells with Charlton.
Fry takes over Luke O'Brien's number three shirt
===========================
City's postponed home game with Crawley has been rearranged for Tuesday, March 27.
The Valley Parade clash will be the fifth Tuesday night game in the next seven weeks for Phil Parkinson's side.
---
City's postponed match at AFC Wimbledon has been rearranged for Tuesday, March 13 (7.45pm).
It means the Bantams face a congested period in March, which will see them play nine games in 29 days.
===========================
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/9526713.print/
Lawn promises to keep it cheap as Bradford City prepare to reveal new season-ticket offer
7:20am Monday 13th February 2012
By Simon Parker
City will finally launch their new season-ticket scheme next month – with the promise of another "futuristic" twist.
The club have held back making an announcement because of concerns over their league safety.
They are still too close to the drop zone for comfort but are confident of pulling well away during the hectic run of fixtures coming up.
City have consulted with a fans' representative group to agree on prices for next term. And they guarantee supporters will still be paying less than at any other club.
Joint-chairman Mark Lawn said: "With the social economics of the Bradford district, we need to offer people good value for money. We're going to try to keep that.
"There will be a two-pronged approach with a season-ticket and also another, I think futuristic offer for supporters.
"I think the fans have got to realise they'll get the club that they pay for. That's part of it.
"We can only subsidise it for so long and we've done that for five years. We have to be a little bit more realistic.
"Having said that, we'll still be the cheapest season-ticket in the Football League by far. And the secondary offer that comes with it will be an absolute bargain."
Lawn insisted that City have listened to the fans, with several meetings having taken place with the supporter group set up to gauge public feeling.
He added: "There are ten or 12 on the panel of various ages and wealth. They cover all aspects from the unemployed to one who is a company director.
"We've asked them for their views and how they felt we should go forward. I think the supporters have come up with a good idea and we're going to go with that.
"We're hoping to be in position to launch it at the beginning of March."
City were left kicking their heels again at the weekend after suffering a second successive postponement. But tomorrow's night clash with Port Vale at Valley Parade kicks off a frantic run of games as they look to clear the backlog.
Lawn remains positive about Phil Parkinson's command and can see solid steps already being taken towards next season.
"We've got a good manager with Phil now and hopefully we'll be pushing next year. I really think that.
"You can see the sort of player he wants and the type he's bringing in. He's looking like getting his squad together.
"We won't have a wholesale dismantling of the team in the summer like we have done in the past few years. He's got his nucleus in place, with the likes of Ricky Ravenhill, and he's brought in a few that will definitely be here next season.
"There are some out of contract and it's up to the manager who he keeps. But while we had a wholesale change last year of eight, nine or ten coming in, we may only get as many as three or four."
===========================
Become a Bradford City player for a day
6:50am Monday 13th February 2012
By Simon Parker
City fans have the chance to follow in the footsteps of their heroes at Valley Parade – and boost the coffers for the club's youngsters.
The club's youth development fund will benefit from an end-of-season match involving supporters.
Wayne Jacobs and Ian Ormondroyd will manage two squads of fans for the game on Saturday, May 12.
And the participants will get the full match-day treatment as if they were playing for the first team.
Organiser Billy Bingham said: "We were looking at different ways to raise money for the development departments.
"The Soul nights have gone well but were getting a bit tedious and people wanted something different.
"We've called this Play it like a Pro and it's exactly that. We're after 32 fans to pay £150 to play in the game and they will be treated just like the professionals.
"They will wear City kit and if time will allow it get their names on the back of the shirts. The scoreboard will be up and running and the players will come out to music – it will be like a typical Saturday afternoon match.
"Wayne and Ian are going to be the two managers and we're also looking to involve the likes of John Hendrie, Dean Windass and David Wetherall for guest appearances."
Afterwards, the two squads will have a meal in the 1911 Club and there will be an awards ceremony to present the trophy to the winning team and name the man of the match.
Jacobs and Ormondroyd will then take part in a question-and-answer session.
Bingham added: "We think it's a fantastic opportunity if you're a supporter. You can live the dream by playing at Valley Parade like you were in the City team."
Places are on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked on 01274-706836. Alternatively contact the club and ask for Sandra Oram.
===========================
Fifa emergency loan ban: End of football's borrowers?
http://tgr.ph/x5GjTM
full link
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/news/8969167/Football-League-clubs-dealt-huge-blow-after-Fifa-decides-emergency-loans-contravene-its-
rules.html
It is fair to say Carlisle United manager Greg Abbott is not a fan of Fifa's
plans to scrap the emergency loan window in 2014
Under Abbott's tenure the Cumbrians have made good use of the system,
bringing in players from Premier League clubs including Manchester City,
Manchester United and Sunderland to bolster the squad.
In addition players such as Adam Clayton, James Chester and Chris Chantler
all found permanent moves away from the top flight following their loan
stints at Brunton Park.
Yet in two years time such deals will no longer be allowed.
"It's an absolute outrage," Abbott told BBC Late Kick
Off.
"For us it would be a disaster and it would crucify us financially. We know
at the start of the season the revenue is not going to be there so we have
to gamble.
"We either go with a small squad, or overload the squad with players and
financially we cause the club a problem.
"[Emergency loans are] not compatible with general principles of the Fifa
regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players"
Read the full article online
http://tgr.ph/x5GjTM
===========================
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
L2 L1-2 (A) Bristol Rovers, Saturday January 28, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
NPower League Two
Bristol Rovers (1) 2 Brown 6, Richards 55.
Bradford City (0) 1 Davies 72.
Att: 6,164
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16664030.stm
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Sold
Luke O'Brien to Exeter City
Loans
Will Atkinson, Hull, end of season
Return to sender
Nialle Rodney contract cancelled by mutual consent. [Signed for Lincoln]
Charlie Taylor, Leeds, end of 1 month loan
Patrick Lacey contract cancelled by mutual consent.
===========================
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: Bristol R - Bradford C
Possession: 51 - 49%
Shots on target: 7 - 5
Shots off target: 4 - 7
Fouls: 11 - 13
Corners: 8 - 6
Ref: Christopher Sarginson (Staffordshire).
Red card:
Bradford C: Kozluk - 2nd yellow (65 min).
Yellow cards:
Bristol R: Zebroski (29 min).
Bradford C: Kozluk (29 min,65 min), Ravenhill (84 min).
BRISTOL ROVERS: 20. Michael Poke, 4. Dan Woodards (14), 33. Aaron Downes, 5.
Cian Bolger, 14. Lee Brown, 2. Michael Smith,6. Craig Stanley, 34. Andy
Dorman, 8. Mathew Gill, 26. Chris Zebroski, 18. Eliot Richards.
SUBS: 25. Lance Cronin (GK), 10. Scott McGleish (14), 15. Byron Anthony, 23.
Ben Swallow, 27. Kayne McLaggon.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 22. Lee Bullock (87), 38.
Andrew Davies, 36. Marcel Seip, 23. David Syers, 30. Will Atkinson (60), 14.
Richard Ravenhill, 39. Craig Fagan, 21. Nahki Wells (60), 9. James Hanson.
SUBS: 34. Matt Duke (GK), 8. Ritchie Jones, 11. Deane Smalley (60), 15.
Charlie Taylor (87), 32. Kyel Reid (60).
===========================
Saturday evening match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Ten-man City suffered a self-inflicted defeat at Bristol Rovers - but left
frustrated that they were not given a late chance to grab a point from the
penalty spot.
The Bantams were trailing to two poor goals and then had Rob Kozluk sent
off, their fifth player to see red this season.
But Andrew Davies pulled one back with his second goal in successive games
to set up a stirring finish.
And the depleted visitors thought they had clinched a comeback when sub Kyel
Reid appeared to be tripped by Chris Zebroski. But nothing was given and
City were left empty-handed.
New Rovers boss McGhee was handed a dream start in his first home game when
his side struck after six minutes from the opening corner.
City had three chances to clear but the ball eventually skimmed off Lee
Bullock and fell to Lee Brown who had loads of space to fire into the bottom
corner.
There were half-hearted appeals for offside but it was a sloppy goal that
should have been avoided.
New boy Will Atkinson showed great control to bring down a long clearance
and set up Craig Fagan. But the skipper's first-time drive flew wide.
Fagan hooked another chance over and Marcel Seip blazed off target while
Chris Zebroski shot tamely at Jon McLaughlin for the home side.
Nahki Wells was City's busiest player and delivered a dangerous cross which
Michael Poke just managed to flick away from the incoming James Hanson.
Rovers thought they should have had a penalty just before the break after
Eliot Richards went down from Fagan's challenge. It looked a strong claim
and there was relief in the City ranks when Chris Sarginson waved the
appeals away.
McLaughlin looked uncomfortable dealing with Andy Dorman's cross-shot and
Matt Gill fired wide as the home side finished the half strongly.
City's hopes of hitting back in the second half suffered another blow ten
minutes in after an uncharacteristic error from Davies.
The centre half got caught in possession midway inside the City half and
Richards nicked the ball away before beating McLaughlin.
And City's problems grew when Kozluk was shown his second yellow card after
65 minutes after catching Richards late.
But the ten men, now playing three at the back, climbed off the canvas seven
minutes later. Sub Deane Smalley headed into the mix and Davies bravely
forced it home while taking a whack for his troubles.
McLaughlin kept the hopes alive by denying Richards, who then hit the post
through a crowd of players from the resulting corner.
City were giving it a go to rescue a point and almost had it with a Davies
header which Poke clawed round the post.
McLaughlin spread himself well to thwart Richards once more as City piled
forward.
And like Rovers in the first half, they were fuming at Sarginson for turning
down a late claim for a spot-kick after Chris Zebroski's challenge on Kyel
Reid. It looked nailed on but the referee remained unmoved.
Phil Parkinson and the coaching staff spilled on to the edge of the pitch in
their frustration and the Bantams boss raced over to confront the referee at
the final whistle.
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
DALEY UP FOR GOAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Former Bantam Omar Daley is in the running for the Mitre Goal of the Year
after his stunner for City against Bury last January was included in the ten
hottest strikes of 2011 from Football League competitions.
The Jamaican attacker, who now plays for Stuart McCall's Motherwell, proved
to be City's match-winner in their first home game of last year when he
crashed a stunning volley past Shakers 'keeper Cameron Belford following Tom
Adeyemi's far post cross.
The top ten goals were revealed on Sky's Saturday morning football show,
Soccer AM this weekend and Bantams fans can help secure Daley the accolade
by voting via the Soccer AM website.
Click the link below to view goals and vote:
http://www.socceram.com/goaloftheyear?v=1
The top ten goals of 2011:
Sean McConville (Accrington Stanley) vs Hereford United
OMAR DALEY (BRADFORD CITY) vs Bury
Peter Whittingham (Cardiff City) vs Barnsley
Darren Ambrose (Crystal Palace) vs Manchester United
Billy Sharp (Doncaster Rovers) vs Middlesbrough
Peter Leven (Oxford United) vs Port Vale
Karl Arnason (Plymouth Argyle) vs Milton Keynes Dons
Paul Coutts (Preston North End) vs Colchester United
Will Grigg (Walsall) vs Scunthorpe United
Lewis Grabban (Rotherham United) vs Shrewsbury Town
The winner will be decided at the glittering Awards ceremony at The Brewery,
London on Sunday 11 March 2012.
To find out more about The Football League Awards please
visit www.FLAwards.com.
===========================
Late Kick Off looks at the role of the kitman
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16808114.stm?
In past times, it was the kitman's job to make sure the players got the right shirts.
Like everything else in football these days though, that role has changed and got a whole lot more complicated.
Yorkshire & Lincolnshire Late Kick Off goes behind the scenes with Bradford City kitman Graham Duckworth.
Late Kick Off is shown on BBC One on a Monday evening (2305 GMT).
You can also watch the programme again on the BBC iplayer via the Late Kick Off website.
This video is for UK users only.
===========================
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16742635.stm
Bradford City bring in Hull City's Will Atkinson on loan
Bradford City have signed Hull City midfielder Will Atkinson on loan until the end of the season with a view to making the deal permanent.
The 23-year-old spent the first half of the season on loan at fellow League Two side Plymouth Argyle, scoring four goals in 25 games.
Atkinson has scored one league goal in six appearances for the Tigers.
As well as Argyle, he has also spent time with Port Vale, Mansfield, Rochdale and Rotherham.
===========================
Exeter City sign Bradford City full-back Luke O'Brien
Page last updated at 12:59 GMT, Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Exeter City have signed Bradford City full-back Luke O'Brien for an undisclosed fee.
City have taken over the contract of the 23-year-old, whose deal at Bradford was due to run out in the summer.
He is a direct replacement for Scott Golbourne, who left Exeter for Barnsley on Monday.
O'Brien is a product of the Bradford's youth programme and has made more than 120 appearances for the Bantams since making his debut in September
2007.
He has made 13 appearances for Bradford this season, with more than half them coming as a substitute.
===========================
Blast from the past
http://foreverwestham.com/2012/01/blog-topics/the-game-that-made-me-a-hammer?
===========================
Transfer Window Closes...
Bradford City have cancelled the contract of striker Nialle Rodney by mutual
consent. Rodney, 20, joined the Bantams in the summer and struck four goals in
pre-season but failed to find the net in the league.
[Update: Rodney has been signed by Lincoln City]
---
Leeds United teenager Charlie Taylor has returned to his parent club
following the expiry of his one-month loan spell at Bradford City.
---
LACEY DEPARTS CITY
The football club can confirm that midfielder Patrick Lacey has left the
Bantams after his Bradford City contract was cancelled by mutual consent.
Lacey, 18, leaves the Coral Windows Stadium after nearly eight months at the
club following his summer move to City back in July. Lacey impressed the then-City boss Peter Jackson enough to
warrant a one year contract.
Partly down to injuries, including a serious knee problem that required an
operation at the back end of last year, the Liverpudlian failed to make a
single first team appearance during his time as a Bantam.
Lacey did enjoy loan spells at Vauxhall Motors - where he picked up his serious knee
injury - and at Southport.
The football club would like to thank Patrick for his efforts during his
time with Bradford and wish him all the very best in his future career.
---
===========================
Bristol Rovers (1) 2 Brown 6, Richards 55.
Bradford City (0) 1 Davies 72.
Att: 6,164
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16664030.stm
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Sold
Luke O'Brien to Exeter City
Loans
Will Atkinson, Hull, end of season
Return to sender
Nialle Rodney contract cancelled by mutual consent. [Signed for Lincoln]
Charlie Taylor, Leeds, end of 1 month loan
Patrick Lacey contract cancelled by mutual consent.
===========================
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: Bristol R - Bradford C
Possession: 51 - 49%
Shots on target: 7 - 5
Shots off target: 4 - 7
Fouls: 11 - 13
Corners: 8 - 6
Ref: Christopher Sarginson (Staffordshire).
Red card:
Bradford C: Kozluk - 2nd yellow (65 min).
Yellow cards:
Bristol R: Zebroski (29 min).
Bradford C: Kozluk (29 min,65 min), Ravenhill (84 min).
BRISTOL ROVERS: 20. Michael Poke, 4. Dan Woodards (14), 33. Aaron Downes, 5.
Cian Bolger, 14. Lee Brown, 2. Michael Smith,6. Craig Stanley, 34. Andy
Dorman, 8. Mathew Gill, 26. Chris Zebroski, 18. Eliot Richards.
SUBS: 25. Lance Cronin (GK), 10. Scott McGleish (14), 15. Byron Anthony, 23.
Ben Swallow, 27. Kayne McLaggon.
BRADFORD C: 1. Jon McLaughlin, 24. Rob Kozluk, 22. Lee Bullock (87), 38.
Andrew Davies, 36. Marcel Seip, 23. David Syers, 30. Will Atkinson (60), 14.
Richard Ravenhill, 39. Craig Fagan, 21. Nahki Wells (60), 9. James Hanson.
SUBS: 34. Matt Duke (GK), 8. Ritchie Jones, 11. Deane Smalley (60), 15.
Charlie Taylor (87), 32. Kyel Reid (60).
===========================
Saturday evening match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Ten-man City suffered a self-inflicted defeat at Bristol Rovers - but left
frustrated that they were not given a late chance to grab a point from the
penalty spot.
The Bantams were trailing to two poor goals and then had Rob Kozluk sent
off, their fifth player to see red this season.
But Andrew Davies pulled one back with his second goal in successive games
to set up a stirring finish.
And the depleted visitors thought they had clinched a comeback when sub Kyel
Reid appeared to be tripped by Chris Zebroski. But nothing was given and
City were left empty-handed.
New Rovers boss McGhee was handed a dream start in his first home game when
his side struck after six minutes from the opening corner.
City had three chances to clear but the ball eventually skimmed off Lee
Bullock and fell to Lee Brown who had loads of space to fire into the bottom
corner.
There were half-hearted appeals for offside but it was a sloppy goal that
should have been avoided.
New boy Will Atkinson showed great control to bring down a long clearance
and set up Craig Fagan. But the skipper's first-time drive flew wide.
Fagan hooked another chance over and Marcel Seip blazed off target while
Chris Zebroski shot tamely at Jon McLaughlin for the home side.
Nahki Wells was City's busiest player and delivered a dangerous cross which
Michael Poke just managed to flick away from the incoming James Hanson.
Rovers thought they should have had a penalty just before the break after
Eliot Richards went down from Fagan's challenge. It looked a strong claim
and there was relief in the City ranks when Chris Sarginson waved the
appeals away.
McLaughlin looked uncomfortable dealing with Andy Dorman's cross-shot and
Matt Gill fired wide as the home side finished the half strongly.
City's hopes of hitting back in the second half suffered another blow ten
minutes in after an uncharacteristic error from Davies.
The centre half got caught in possession midway inside the City half and
Richards nicked the ball away before beating McLaughlin.
And City's problems grew when Kozluk was shown his second yellow card after
65 minutes after catching Richards late.
But the ten men, now playing three at the back, climbed off the canvas seven
minutes later. Sub Deane Smalley headed into the mix and Davies bravely
forced it home while taking a whack for his troubles.
McLaughlin kept the hopes alive by denying Richards, who then hit the post
through a crowd of players from the resulting corner.
City were giving it a go to rescue a point and almost had it with a Davies
header which Poke clawed round the post.
McLaughlin spread himself well to thwart Richards once more as City piled
forward.
And like Rovers in the first half, they were fuming at Sarginson for turning
down a late claim for a spot-kick after Chris Zebroski's challenge on Kyel
Reid. It looked nailed on but the referee remained unmoved.
Phil Parkinson and the coaching staff spilled on to the edge of the pitch in
their frustration and the Bantams boss raced over to confront the referee at
the final whistle.
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website…
DALEY UP FOR GOAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Former Bantam Omar Daley is in the running for the Mitre Goal of the Year
after his stunner for City against Bury last January was included in the ten
hottest strikes of 2011 from Football League competitions.
The Jamaican attacker, who now plays for Stuart McCall's Motherwell, proved
to be City's match-winner in their first home game of last year when he
crashed a stunning volley past Shakers 'keeper Cameron Belford following Tom
Adeyemi's far post cross.
The top ten goals were revealed on Sky's Saturday morning football show,
Soccer AM this weekend and Bantams fans can help secure Daley the accolade
by voting via the Soccer AM website.
Click the link below to view goals and vote:
http://www.socceram.com/goaloftheyear?v=1
The top ten goals of 2011:
Sean McConville (Accrington Stanley) vs Hereford United
OMAR DALEY (BRADFORD CITY) vs Bury
Peter Whittingham (Cardiff City) vs Barnsley
Darren Ambrose (Crystal Palace) vs Manchester United
Billy Sharp (Doncaster Rovers) vs Middlesbrough
Peter Leven (Oxford United) vs Port Vale
Karl Arnason (Plymouth Argyle) vs Milton Keynes Dons
Paul Coutts (Preston North End) vs Colchester United
Will Grigg (Walsall) vs Scunthorpe United
Lewis Grabban (Rotherham United) vs Shrewsbury Town
The winner will be decided at the glittering Awards ceremony at The Brewery,
London on Sunday 11 March 2012.
To find out more about The Football League Awards please
visit www.FLAwards.com.
===========================
Late Kick Off looks at the role of the kitman
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16808114.stm?
In past times, it was the kitman's job to make sure the players got the right shirts.
Like everything else in football these days though, that role has changed and got a whole lot more complicated.
Yorkshire & Lincolnshire Late Kick Off goes behind the scenes with Bradford City kitman Graham Duckworth.
Late Kick Off is shown on BBC One on a Monday evening (2305 GMT).
You can also watch the programme again on the BBC iplayer via the Late Kick Off website.
This video is for UK users only.
===========================
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/16742635.stm
Bradford City bring in Hull City's Will Atkinson on loan
Bradford City have signed Hull City midfielder Will Atkinson on loan until the end of the season with a view to making the deal permanent.
The 23-year-old spent the first half of the season on loan at fellow League Two side Plymouth Argyle, scoring four goals in 25 games.
Atkinson has scored one league goal in six appearances for the Tigers.
As well as Argyle, he has also spent time with Port Vale, Mansfield, Rochdale and Rotherham.
===========================
Exeter City sign Bradford City full-back Luke O'Brien
Page last updated at 12:59 GMT, Tuesday, 31 January 2012
Exeter City have signed Bradford City full-back Luke O'Brien for an undisclosed fee.
City have taken over the contract of the 23-year-old, whose deal at Bradford was due to run out in the summer.
He is a direct replacement for Scott Golbourne, who left Exeter for Barnsley on Monday.
O'Brien is a product of the Bradford's youth programme and has made more than 120 appearances for the Bantams since making his debut in September
2007.
He has made 13 appearances for Bradford this season, with more than half them coming as a substitute.
===========================
Blast from the past
http://foreverwestham.com/2012/01/blog-topics/the-game-that-made-me-a-hammer?
===========================
Transfer Window Closes...
Bradford City have cancelled the contract of striker Nialle Rodney by mutual
consent. Rodney, 20, joined the Bantams in the summer and struck four goals in
pre-season but failed to find the net in the league.
[Update: Rodney has been signed by Lincoln City]
---
Leeds United teenager Charlie Taylor has returned to his parent club
following the expiry of his one-month loan spell at Bradford City.
---
LACEY DEPARTS CITY
The football club can confirm that midfielder Patrick Lacey has left the
Bantams after his Bradford City contract was cancelled by mutual consent.
Lacey, 18, leaves the Coral Windows Stadium after nearly eight months at the
club following his summer move to City back in July. Lacey impressed the then-City boss Peter Jackson enough to
warrant a one year contract.
Partly down to injuries, including a serious knee problem that required an
operation at the back end of last year, the Liverpudlian failed to make a
single first team appearance during his time as a Bantam.
Lacey did enjoy loan spells at Vauxhall Motors - where he picked up his serious knee
injury - and at Southport.
The football club would like to thank Patrick for his efforts during his
time with Bradford and wish him all the very best in his future career.
---
===========================
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
L2 (H) D2-2 Burton Albion, Saturday January 21, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM.
NPower League Two
Bradford C (1) 1 Davies 43
Burton Alb. (0) 1 Palmer 85
Att: 9,744
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2584827,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/16672712.stm?
City goal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sADrH148mAA&context=C3667090ADOEgsToPDskKR2OLQJZEnvvU-A82xy9zu
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
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: 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."
===========================
Bradford C (1) 1 Davies 43
Burton Alb. (0) 1 Palmer 85
Att: 9,744
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
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2011/
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2584827,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
BBC highlights (uk only)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/16672712.stm?
City goal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sADrH148mAA&context=C3667090ADOEgsToPDskKR2OLQJZEnvvU-A82xy9zu
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
===========================
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: 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."
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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."
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