Wednesday, December 26, 2012
FAC2-R L2-4 AET (A) Brentford Tuesday December 18, 2012. K.O. 7:45PM. #bcafc
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=358380&action=stats&lang=EN&wjb=
===========================
Final whistle - match report
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20710465
Brentford became the first side to beat Bradford in a cup game this season in their FA Cup second-round replay.
The Bantams, who were expelled then reinstated in the competition, were ahead when Kyel Reid smashed home, but Marcello Trotta's penalty levelled.
After no more goals in 90 minutes, Alan Connell put the visitors ahead from the spot in extra-time.
But Trotta, Clayton Donaldson and Harry Forrester scored as the Bees beat last week's conquerors of Arsenal.
After the original tie finished 1-1, Bradford were expelled from the competition for fielding an ineligible player in Curtis Good, before a successful appeal allowed them back into the Cup.
However, the Yorkshire side were on the back foot early on in the replay with both Stewart Dallas and Trotta forcing Bantams keeper Jon McLaughlin into fine saves, before Reid's opener put the visitors ahead against the run of play.
After Trotta levelled from the spot when he was fouled by Carl McHugh just before half-time, neither side could find a winner in the 90 minutes.
Early in the extra period, Shaleum Logan's foul on Blair Turgott allowed Connell to fire Bradford ahead from the spot against his former side.
But Trotta's strike, Donaldson's turn and shot and Forrester's low drive ensured that Brentford ended Bradford's unbeaten run in cup competitions this season, and set up a third-round trip to Southend.
Bradford boss Phil Parkinson told BBC Radio Leeds:
"I thought it was a gallant performance from the lads, given the team we had out tonight, I don't think we could have asked for much more.
"We didn't want to go to extra-time but there are a lot of benefits from the game.
"Kyel Reid has been out for 10 or 11 weeks, that's like an off-season and he needs a lot of work but it was great for him to get a goal and that will give him a lot of confidence.
"We decided with the board that we would leave some of our key players back in Bradford for the game because some of them really needed a rest."
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
===========================
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20782559
Brentford boss Uwe Rosler criticises FA over Bradford decision
Brentford manager Uwe Rosler has criticised the Football Association after beating Bradford City in their FA Cup second round replay.
The tie had to be re-arranged after the Bantams were expelled from the competition but then reinstated.
He told BBC London 94.9: "The FA put us in a very difficult situation but we overcame it. We didn't like it.
"We feel we are the club punished in the end by people who did not make careful decisions in the first place."
Bradford were thrown out of the Cup for fielding an ineligible player, on-loan Newcastle defender Curtis Good, in the original match between the two sides, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
However, the League Two side appealed against the decision and were let back into the competition.
Brentford chief executive Mark Devlin said the club were "a little perplexed" by the FA's U-turn but had to accept the decision.
"I respect the FA very highly and think it is a fantastic organisation with a long history and great people working there," Rosler continued.
"But I am employed by Brentford Football Club,
"I would have had no problem had Bradford stayed in the Cup in the first place.
"They throw them out, then reinstate them and only fine them £1,000. It makes no sense."
The replay, originally scheduled for last week, was re-arranged and played on Tuesday night, with Brentford winning 4-2 after extra time.
Rosler said the timing of the game ahead of a busy festive programme will do no favours for his side, who are currently chasing promotion from League One.
"We didn't want the game and I don't think [Bradford manager] Phil Parkinson really wanted the game," the German added,
"They are chasing promotion and we are trying to chase promotion and obviously the last thing we wanted was 120 minutes.
"But we had a very good outcome and it is very important for us to keep our run going."
Brentford will now face a trip to Southend United in the third round.
===========================
Full Villa ticket details
You thought playing Arsenal was exciting? Imagine the excitement over two legs against Premiership side Aston Villa in the Capital One Cup Semi-Final!
So how can you be part of this momentous occasion?
Tickets will go on sale from Thursday December 27 2012 at 9:00am.
The club's Season Ticket/FlexiCard holders can purchase both home and away tickets for an exclusive period until Friday 4 January at 5.00pm.
From Saturday 5 January 9:00am until 8 January 4.00pm – match tickets will go on general sale.
The club have held off selling match tickets for the forthcoming Villa ties because of the Christmas break and a busy Boxing Day game - Accrington Stanley at home, 3.00 pm kick-off.
Tickets will be available on the day for the Accrington match via the ticket office until 1.00pm. Cash turnstiles will also be in operation at both the Co-operative Main Stand and the Kop.
Season Ticket/FlexiCard tickets holders will be able to purchase two tickets per person for the home leg of the Villa tie and one ticket per person for the away leg of the tie - the club have been allocated 6375 for the Villa Park away leg.
Tickets can be bought either online or at the ticket office, although the club recommends that supporters, if possible, purchase their tickets online via the Bradford City website to beat the queues.
To gain access to the club's online ticketing website please click HERE.
http://www.bcfc.talent-sport.co.uk/PagesPublic/Home/home.aspx
For those people who choose attend the Bantams Ticket Office, please take your Season Ticket card or FlexiCard with you to make the transaction quicker.
The club would also suggest that over the next few days supporters log on and ensure that their details on the ticketing website are up to date.
All tickets are on a first come first served basis and are subject to availability. Please remember, however, there will be enough home match tickets for all Season Ticket/FlexiCard tickets holders to purchase two per person.
Following a discussion with Aston Villa, the club's only option is to seat their fans within the Northern Commercials Stand (Midland Road) stand - as per the Arsenal match.
With this in mind, it is not possible for the club to guarantee Season Ticket/FlexiCard holders their usual reserved seat due to the reconfiguration of the seating within the ground.
This means that all seating areas within the home sections of the ground for the home Villa tie will be open to Season Ticket/FlexiCard holders on a first come first serve basis. NO SEASON TICKET/FLEXICARD SEATS HAVE BEEN RESERVED FOR SUPPORTERS.
A reminder of the ticket prices:-
Home match 8 January 2013
Adults: £25
Concessions: £20 (Over 60s and full time students)
Junior Under 16s: £15
The away leg will be played at Villa Park on Tuesday 22 January 2013.
The prices for this match will be:
Adults: £29
Concessions: £25
Juniors: £15
Concessions at Villa Park consist of over 65s, full time students, under 21s and members of the Armed Forces with current ID.
Supporters will also be able to purchase online or via the ticket office suite upgrades to either the Bantams or Patrons bar. These upgraded tickets are available at an additional £15.00 per respective home match ticket price. Details of these selected seats will be issued shortly.
Our ticket office will be opening at additional times so please see below the revised opening hours:-
Ticket office opening times 22 December – 8 January inclusive
26 December 9.00am – 2.45pm - only normal match day tickets will be available to purchase
27 December 9.00am – 5.00pm
28 December 9.00am – 5.00pm
29 December 9.00am – 2.45pm – only normal match day tickets will be available to purchase
30 December 9.00am – 5.00pm
31 December 9.00am – 5.00pm
1 January Closed
The Bantams Ticket Office is then open every day (including Sunday 6 January) until 8 January 2013 9.00am to 5.00pm.
For those wishing to purchase banqueting and hospitality packages please contact our commercial team directly at commercial@the-bantams.co.uk
Please keep an eye on website for further updates on this historic Semi-Final tie.
===========================
McArdle is Bradford City's marathon man
7:20am Wednesday 26th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Rory McArdle will reach a remarkable endurance milestone for City against Accrington this afternoon as the busiest player in English football.
The ultra-consistent defender has arguably spent more time on the pitch than anyone throughout the domestic game this season.
When today's Valley Parade clash reaches the 58th minute, McArdle will have played 48 hours of football – or two full days on the pitch.
Back-four team-mate James Meredith is only 44 minutes behind as City continue their hectic progress through a memorable campaign.
Saturday's postponement at Wycombe offered an unexpected breather but McArdle is ready for the next rush.
The Northern Ireland international, in line for his 30th start, is happy to keep the games coming.
McArdle said: "Everyone knows the Christmas period is busy. We looked at it a few weeks ago and worked out it was going to be a big month.
"We also thought January would be calming down a bit but fortunately we've managed to get a bit of a scalp by beating Arsenal and now we've got another two games in the Capital One Cup as well as the JP Trophy.
"So we're playing Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday again – but that's not a bad thing. We know we've got a good squad and the injured boys are pretty much there."
Zavon Hines and Kyel Reid both returned from their lay-offs last week and Andrew Davies is getting nearer after being sidelined for two months with his knee injury.
McArdle said: "Only big Luke (Oliver) is not going to feature. Dava is a month or two away and he's in good spirits and getting stronger every day.
"And of course we've got Zav and Reidy available again. It does give us a lift to see more players coming back.
"It keeps everyone on their toes too because people know that if they aren't performing there are boys waiting to come in and take their places.
"But it's also not easy for those coming back. The boys have dug in and got results since they've been out.
"It was a massive test for us, particularly with the players we've lost. You look back to the start of the season and people like big Olly, Dava and Reidy were the heart of the team.
"I think the boys have more than handled it. Ideally we'd like to be sitting a bit higher in the league but it's only December.
"If we're still up there come the end of next month, we should have everyone back fit and firing."
Phil Parkinson has banned any mention of the forthcoming double-header with Aston Villa but City's incredible cup success has given them a reputation with the rest of League Two.
McArdle said: "We've become a bit of a scalp now and that increases the expectation. But we've got no problem with that.
"We put pressure on ourselves from the start of the season to get promoted and that hasn't changed.
"We can just enjoy the cup; that's the bonus for us. It's been good for the fans, especially with the draws we've had, but promotion is the key.
"This is a big period for us and we're expected to win in the league. But we can handle that."
===========================
Thursday, December 20, 2012
CFML Special - Villa game info / Ticket Office Feedback needed / Free Wycombe tickets available
Dates confirmed
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/villa-sky-553377.aspx
PUBLISHED 11:56 20th December 2012
The football club can now confirm that the dates for both legs of their forthcoming Capital One Cup Semi-Final with Aston Villa have now been finalised.
City will host Paul Lambert's Villa at the Coral Windows Stadium in the first leg on Tuesday 8 January 2013.
Phil Parkinson's men will then travel to Villa Park exactly two weeks later on Tuesday 22 January 2013 for the second leg.
Both ties will be broadcast live on Sky Sports television and will kick off at 7:45pm.
Ticket details for both legs will be announced in due course on www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk
=====
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/villa-tickets-553384.aspx
Villa online ticket feedback required
PUBLISHED 10:56 20th December 2012
Club statement
In preparation for our forthcoming Capital One Cup Semi-Final home leg against Aston Villa, the club would like to ask supporters who purchased their recent Arsenal tickets online to give us feedback regarding their ticketing experience.
The purpose of this request is to allow us to ensure we make it even easier for our supporters to purchase tickets for 8 January tie.
Some examples of where our system wasn't user friendly would be helpful. It could be trouble logging in, adding friends/ family or even knowing whether your transaction was successful.
Whatever your feedback, please let us know at micklamb@the-bantams.co.uk as we're striving to make purchasing online even simpler for you.
We'd also stress the importance of having your contact details up to date so we'd ask that you spend a few moments to log into the Bradford City ticketing system and make any necessary amendments.
We'd especially like to draw your attention to ensuring that your email address is up to date.
Supporters can reach the club's online ticketing website by clicking HERE (http://www.bcfc.talent-sport.co.uk/PagesPublic/Home/home.aspx).
The club will announce over the next few days the ticketing and match details.
We once again thank you for your continued loyalty and support.
===========================
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20788986
Bradford City to face Aston Villa in Capital One Cup semi-final
Bradford's reward for knocking Arsenal out of the Capital One Cup is a semi-final against Aston Villa, while Chelsea will take on Swansea.
League Two Bradford will play the first leg of their semi-final at home against five-time winners Villa.
The first matches will be played in the week starting 7 January and the second legs a fortnight later.
The Bantams pulled off one of the biggest League Cup shocks by beating Premier League side Arsenal on penalties at Valley Parade last week.
Villa won 4-1 away at Norwich and are currently unbeaten in six matches in all competitions.
Capital One Cup semi-final draw:
Chelsea v Swansea
Bradford v Aston Villa
Ties to be played weeks commencing 7 & 21 and January
League Cup pedigree
Aston Villa won the last of their five League Cups in 1996
Chelsea have won it four times, including in 2005 and 2007
Bradford and Swansea have never won the competition
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/parkinson-villa-draw-553072.aspx
Parkinson pleased with Villa draw
PUBLISHED 10:20 20th December 2012
Bantams boss Phil Parkinson has declared himself pleased with the news that City have been pitted together with Premier League side Aston Villa for their forthcoming Capital One Cup Semi-Final.
For the club's first-ever appearance in the last four stage of this competition, Parkinson's men will host Villa on Tuesday 8 January 2013 in the first leg before travelling to Villa Park for the second leg exactly two weeks later.
Chelsea and Swansea City will battle it out for a place in the final in the other semi.
Following Chelsea's defeat of Leeds United in the final quarter-final tie last (Wednesday) night, City will be the Football League's sole representative in the competition.
Speaking after the draw was made, Parkinson said: "I think the draw is perfect for us as a team and for our supporters.
"Chelsea or Swansea would have been long trips for our supporters. It might have been very expensive and very difficult for them to get down to the away leg if we'd drawn either one of those teams.
"Villa will be a bit easier for our fans to get to in their numbers and both ties should be good for the club financially as well.
"Financially, the best draw probably would have been Chelsea, but Villa are still are huge club and it will be a great opportunity for everyone involved with the club.
"The lads will understandably be excited about the draw but we have five important league games to focus on before we can look forward to the first leg.
"We will have nothing to lose going into the two legs. They will be two occasions for the club to look forward to and really enjoy."
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/free-wycombe-tickets-549107.aspx
Free Wycombe tickets still available
PUBLISHED 09:23 20th December 2012
The football club would like to remind supporters that their FREE ticket offer for Saturday's (22 December 2012) npower League 2 fixture at Wycombe Wanderers is still available.
The club purchased as many as 2,000 tickets earlier this week for the match at Adams Park with the intention of giving them away to supporters as an early Christmas present.
Supporters can come to the Bantams Ticket Office NOW to collect their FREE Wycombe tickets.
Phil Parkinson commented: "This is a fantastic gesture from both Mark and Julian and would urge as many of our fans as possible to come and pick up your Christmas pressie"
Tickets can be picked up from the Bantams Ticket Office now during its opening hours (9:00am - 5:00pm).
Coach travel is no longer available for the match after the club sold its remaining travel spaces to supporters this Thursday.
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/villa-sky-553377.aspx
PUBLISHED 11:56 20th December 2012
The football club can now confirm that the dates for both legs of their forthcoming Capital One Cup Semi-Final with Aston Villa have now been finalised.
City will host Paul Lambert's Villa at the Coral Windows Stadium in the first leg on Tuesday 8 January 2013.
Phil Parkinson's men will then travel to Villa Park exactly two weeks later on Tuesday 22 January 2013 for the second leg.
Both ties will be broadcast live on Sky Sports television and will kick off at 7:45pm.
Ticket details for both legs will be announced in due course on www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk
=====
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/villa-tickets-553384.aspx
Villa online ticket feedback required
PUBLISHED 10:56 20th December 2012
Club statement
In preparation for our forthcoming Capital One Cup Semi-Final home leg against Aston Villa, the club would like to ask supporters who purchased their recent Arsenal tickets online to give us feedback regarding their ticketing experience.
The purpose of this request is to allow us to ensure we make it even easier for our supporters to purchase tickets for 8 January tie.
Some examples of where our system wasn't user friendly would be helpful. It could be trouble logging in, adding friends/ family or even knowing whether your transaction was successful.
Whatever your feedback, please let us know at micklamb@the-bantams.co.uk as we're striving to make purchasing online even simpler for you.
We'd also stress the importance of having your contact details up to date so we'd ask that you spend a few moments to log into the Bradford City ticketing system and make any necessary amendments.
We'd especially like to draw your attention to ensuring that your email address is up to date.
Supporters can reach the club's online ticketing website by clicking HERE (http://www.bcfc.talent-sport.co.uk/PagesPublic/Home/home.aspx).
The club will announce over the next few days the ticketing and match details.
We once again thank you for your continued loyalty and support.
===========================
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20788986
Bradford City to face Aston Villa in Capital One Cup semi-final
Bradford's reward for knocking Arsenal out of the Capital One Cup is a semi-final against Aston Villa, while Chelsea will take on Swansea.
League Two Bradford will play the first leg of their semi-final at home against five-time winners Villa.
The first matches will be played in the week starting 7 January and the second legs a fortnight later.
The Bantams pulled off one of the biggest League Cup shocks by beating Premier League side Arsenal on penalties at Valley Parade last week.
Villa won 4-1 away at Norwich and are currently unbeaten in six matches in all competitions.
Capital One Cup semi-final draw:
Chelsea v Swansea
Bradford v Aston Villa
Ties to be played weeks commencing 7 & 21 and January
League Cup pedigree
Aston Villa won the last of their five League Cups in 1996
Chelsea have won it four times, including in 2005 and 2007
Bradford and Swansea have never won the competition
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/parkinson-villa-draw-553072.aspx
Parkinson pleased with Villa draw
PUBLISHED 10:20 20th December 2012
Bantams boss Phil Parkinson has declared himself pleased with the news that City have been pitted together with Premier League side Aston Villa for their forthcoming Capital One Cup Semi-Final.
For the club's first-ever appearance in the last four stage of this competition, Parkinson's men will host Villa on Tuesday 8 January 2013 in the first leg before travelling to Villa Park for the second leg exactly two weeks later.
Chelsea and Swansea City will battle it out for a place in the final in the other semi.
Following Chelsea's defeat of Leeds United in the final quarter-final tie last (Wednesday) night, City will be the Football League's sole representative in the competition.
Speaking after the draw was made, Parkinson said: "I think the draw is perfect for us as a team and for our supporters.
"Chelsea or Swansea would have been long trips for our supporters. It might have been very expensive and very difficult for them to get down to the away leg if we'd drawn either one of those teams.
"Villa will be a bit easier for our fans to get to in their numbers and both ties should be good for the club financially as well.
"Financially, the best draw probably would have been Chelsea, but Villa are still are huge club and it will be a great opportunity for everyone involved with the club.
"The lads will understandably be excited about the draw but we have five important league games to focus on before we can look forward to the first leg.
"We will have nothing to lose going into the two legs. They will be two occasions for the club to look forward to and really enjoy."
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/free-wycombe-tickets-549107.aspx
Free Wycombe tickets still available
PUBLISHED 09:23 20th December 2012
The football club would like to remind supporters that their FREE ticket offer for Saturday's (22 December 2012) npower League 2 fixture at Wycombe Wanderers is still available.
The club purchased as many as 2,000 tickets earlier this week for the match at Adams Park with the intention of giving them away to supporters as an early Christmas present.
Supporters can come to the Bantams Ticket Office NOW to collect their FREE Wycombe tickets.
Phil Parkinson commented: "This is a fantastic gesture from both Mark and Julian and would urge as many of our fans as possible to come and pick up your Christmas pressie"
Tickets can be picked up from the Bantams Ticket Office now during its opening hours (9:00am - 5:00pm).
Coach travel is no longer available for the match after the club sold its remaining travel spaces to supporters this Thursday.
===========================
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
L2 D2-2 (a) Southend United Saturday December 15, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM. #bcafc
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Southend%20United
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=345236&action=stats&lang=EN&wjb=
Southend United: Smith; Clohesy, Cresswell, Prosser, Barker (Eastwood 87); Hurst, Mkandiwire (Corr 69), Laird, Timlin; Assombalonga, Tomlin.
Unused substitutes: Straker, Martin, Donnelly, Bentley, Leonard.
Bradford City: Duke; Darby, Meredith, McHugh, McArdle; G Jones, Doyle (Ravenhill 81), Atkinson, Thompson (Forsyth 57); Wells (Hines 70), Hanson.
Unused substitutes: McLaughlin, Connell, Turgott, Good.
Referee: S Martin (Staffs).
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Southend burst Bantams' bubble in dramatic end to a dramatic week
8:00am Monday 17th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Southend 2 Bradford City 2
Commonsense and realism have been in short supply at the end of a week that could have been written by Hans Christian Andersen.
Cloud nine does not have room for pragmatists.
But in the cold light of Monday morning, the weekend point from Roots Hall looks a precious one.
It didn't feel like that at the time. Still riding on the euphoria of a certain cup tie, it seemed that nothing could spoil City's mood.
Until Gavin Tomlin shrugged off Stephen Darby to unlock a shattered defence in stoppage time and rescue a draw that Southend probably deserved.
So the Bantams' feet were brought back down to earth, if not with a resounding thud then with enough of a bump to remind us all that League Two
cares little for giant-killing reputations.
But among the muted reaction of a weary squad boarding the team bus, Rory McArdle typically provided the voice of reason.
Having done more than anybody to repel numerous Southend attacks, McArdle put the afternoon after the night before in proper perspective.
He said: "We all saw the papers on Wednesday and it was all about Bradford beating Arsenal. It's been unbelievable really.
"But everybody was on a bit of a comedown after that. So we knew coming to Southend would be tough after the events of the week.
"It wasn't a pretty game because the pitch was heavy after all the bad weather but we've come out the right side.
"I don't think the boys changed their mentality. We'll enjoy the cup success but promotion is the key.
"There was no pressure on us at all last Tuesday but we know what's expected of us in the league.
"And if you'd said before the start of the week that we'd beat Arsenal and get a point at Southend, I'm pretty sure everyone would have taken
that."
Of course it could have been so much better. If Will Atkinson's curler had found the top corner, if somebody had got a toe on the cross from
Zavon Hines that was begging to be tapped home, if referee Stephen Martin had spotted the barge on Matt Duke which Phil Parkinson was so adamant
about before Southend's opener.
And if City had dealt with one last hopeful punt upfield in the first minute of added time.
It was a sloppy equaliser to concede as Paul Smith's clearance was allowed to bounce right through for Tomlin to net for the sixth time in seven
games.
But let's not be too harsh. The back four had been magnificent up to that point against a side as free-flowing and dangerous as anyone they have
encountered – Arsenal included.
As Parkinson had warned, Southend love to ping in crosses and make chances for fun. But for 80 minutes at least, City's defence stood strong.
The late blows owed much to energy tanks and minds running on empty; entirely understandable in the context of a tumultuous few days. No wonder
Parky will shuffle as much as he can at Brentford tomorrow.
Unfortunately defence, the area which could most do with a breather, is the one where he can hardly tinker. Forrayah Bass could make his senior
debut but the unavailability of Tom Naylor and, of course, Curtis Good means the two centre halves could be forced to stay on duty.
McArdle and Carl McHugh had little time to relax on Saturday against the lively pairing of Tomlin and on-loan Watford frontman Britt
Assombalonga.
It was the same for the full backs, James Meredith and Stephen Darby, as Southend attacked with the vigour of a team unbeaten now in 12. But none
of the backline were found wanting.
"We've got defenders who always get in the right position," said their manager. "They are always filling holes at the right time and reading
situations."
There are confident individuals all through the team, none more so than Meredith, who continues to take the step up from non-league in his
effortless long strides.
The Australian is as equally at home in the opposition half as his own. It was his run that set up City's breakthrough for Nahki Wells in the
first half.
Meredith's forward forays also allow Atkinson to tuck inside, his favoured part of the pitch, and the pair dovetailed neatly before the left back
slipped Wells into the box.
Luke Prosser, who had an afternoon he will want to forget, slid across to block his shot. But the deflection merely succeeded in committing the
keeper and popped back in the path of City's striker to take his goal tally to 15.
That setback riled Southend, who spent the rest of the first half and the opening stages of the second camped in Bantam territory.
Assombalonga, Kevan Hurst and Prosser all went close to levelling.
With City penned in, it seemed only a matter of time before a Southend equaliser despite some magnificent resistance.
The visitors needed a break – and got it thanks to the luckless Prosser. Atkinson teased and tormented Chris Barker and whipped in a cross that
bobbled up ominously on the cut-up surface.
Prosser attempted to clear it first time but sliced instead and left his keeper rooted to the spot.
City had never won at Roots Hall until last year. Suddenly the prospect of back-to-back triumphs in deepest Essex loomed large.
Southend boss Paul Sturrock, determined to break the curse of being named manager of the month before the game, went for broke. He had four
strikers on the pitch for the last 20 minutes.
City had plenty more defending to do and were finally undone when Ryan Cresswell emerged strongest from a scrum of players on the end of Hurst's
corner. Parkinson's pleas alleging foul play on Duke fell on deaf ears.
The late momentum was all with the home side and McArdle produced the tackle of the match with a goal-saving intervention on Tomlin.
But just as the 210 travelling fans prepared to salute another huge result, City's weary troops did not react to Smith's booming kick. Tomlin
did, despite Darby's best efforts, to ensure the points were shared.
Parkinson admitted: "Their second goal was purely down to tiredness on our part but I'm not going to criticise.
"It was tough after the Arsenal game but we've got such an honest group of players that they just keep going.
"You could see in the dressing room before kick-off, they were saying themselves they knew the importance of this game. They knew we had to push
ourselves and go again.
"Of course you're down when you don't win after being two up. But this was a good point and I can't tell you how proud I am of these lads."
===========================
Brentford - FA Decision
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20696090
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10104538.Bradford_City_s_week_just_gets_better_and_better/?ref=rss
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10104538.Bradford_City_s_week_just_gets_better_and_better/?ref=rss
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20712896
===========================
Burns Unit Appeal
Ebay auction
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Bantams-Banter-T-Shirt-Signed-By-Alan-Davies-Bradford-City-Legends-/200864799711?
Auction ends 21 Dec, 2012 11:48:15 GMT
One of a kind Bantams Banter t-shirt.
Signed by Bradford City legends; Bobby Campbell, Dean Windass, John Hendrie, Ian Ormandroyd, Jamie Lawrence and Gordon Watson.
Also signed by Comedians Alan Davies and Keith Dover of TV and podcast fame.
All signatures added on THAT night, when Bradford City beat Arsenal!
T-shirt kindly donated by Bowler Clothing
100% of proceeds will go to Bradford Burns Unit Appeal.
===========================
Bradford City boss Parkinson to give youth a chance in FA Cup replay
7:20am Monday 17th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson may dip into City's youth ranks to face Brentford Tuesday after calling the FA Cup replay "a game we don't need".
The Bantams chief intends to rest as many of his regulars as possible ahead of the demanding League Two schedule over Christmas.
Saturday's 2-2 draw at Southend has left them in fifth.
Parkinson has been given the green light by the board to make mass changes for the trip to Griffin Park after stressing that the promotion bid
must not be affected.
City were reinstated in the FA Cup on appeal after they had been kicked out for fielding Curtis Good in the first game when he was not cleared to
play.
Parkinson agreed with the principle of City fighting their corner but he refuses to jeopardise the games coming up by using players who have
already spent more minutes on the pitch than any others in the country.
He said: "I told the chairmen they did that appeal to get justice for the club because it was a wrong decision. They did not do it to chase more
money in the FA Cup.
"And they said that if I want to play the whole youth team, then I can do that and give them experience in this game. I need to look after the
(senior) players.
"I totally understand why they appealed because it was a ridiculous decision to throw the club out. But it was a game we didn't need."
Parkinson will employ the likes of Ricky Ravenhill, Alan Connell, Ritchie Jones and Zavon Hines – who gave a lively cameo in the last 20 minutes
on Saturday. Kyel Reid also travelled with the squad to Essex and is set to be involved.
But other untried youngsters will beef up the squad.
Parkinson said: "The fans who travel down there should know that I will always put a team out who can do the club justice.
"However Curtis can't play, Tom Naylor can't play, Craig Forsyth can't play and Ross Hannah will be back with us next week but he can't play
because he wasn't registered in time before the first game.
"All the players who need a game will play and I'll try my best to give everybody else a rest. The chairmen are more than happy with that.
"We'll give everyone we can a game and some of the youth team."
Hannah plays the final game of his three-month loan at Grimsby on Friday. The striker has netted eight times for the promotion-chasing Blue
Square Bet side and is likely to be a permanent target when the transfer window opens next month.
Parkinson was chuffed with City's display at Southend, despite seeing them blow a two-goal lead in the last ten minutes.
Nahki Wells put City ahead with his 15th of the season before Luke Prosser's own goal seemed to have clinched a fourth away win. But Southend hit
back through Ryan Cresswell and Gavin Tomlin's injury-time leveller.
Parkinson said: "Of course we're disappointed not to win it but I can't be critical of anyone. It's a great point for us against a good side. I
can't praise the lads enough."
===========================
Help rename the Kop!
Bradford City Football Club is pleased to announce the launch of a new stand partnership.
A number of local businesses have joined together with the Bantams in a joint sponsorship proposition to take over what was formally known as the
Carlsberg Stand at the Coral Windows Stadium.
These organisations have chosen to support the club in a three year deal, in addition to this they have all agreed to allow the fans to rename
the stand.
So a huge thank you from Bradford City to the following organisations for there commitment and support...
Complete IT Systems
Multi Point Locks
Autoelectro
CMI Logistics
Petherbridge Bassra
Mittons
Mittons Aftercare
Robert Watts Estate Agents
If you'd like to get involved and rename your stand, please vote below. The closing date is December 22nd, and anyone who registers will go into
a draw to win a 2012/13 season ticket worth £199 - so get involved today!
Please click HERE to make your choice!
http://www.pulse.co.uk/on-air/pulse-sport/rename-the-kop-and-win-a-season-ticket/
===========================
Early Christmas present
Christmas is just around the corner, and Bradford City have decided to give its supporters an early present!
The club have purchased as many as 2,000 tickets for this Saturday's (22 December 2012) npower League 2 match at Wycombe Wanderers and plan to give them out as presents to fans as a thank you for their superb support this season.
Each ticket will be FREE of charge.
Tickets will be limited to two per person and can be picked up from the Bantams Ticket Office now during its opening hours (9:00am - 5:00pm).
As well as this amazing match ticket deal, City supporters will also be able to secure coach travel to Adams Park for only £10.00 per person.
Again, this will be available from the Bantams Ticket Office.
It is not compulsory, however, for supporters to buy coach tickets to enable them to qualify for free match tickets.
Subject to availability, coach tickets and match tickets will be available from the Bantams Ticket Office until this Friday (21 December 2012).
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Southend%20United
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=345236&action=stats&lang=EN&wjb=
Southend United: Smith; Clohesy, Cresswell, Prosser, Barker (Eastwood 87); Hurst, Mkandiwire (Corr 69), Laird, Timlin; Assombalonga, Tomlin.
Unused substitutes: Straker, Martin, Donnelly, Bentley, Leonard.
Bradford City: Duke; Darby, Meredith, McHugh, McArdle; G Jones, Doyle (Ravenhill 81), Atkinson, Thompson (Forsyth 57); Wells (Hines 70), Hanson.
Unused substitutes: McLaughlin, Connell, Turgott, Good.
Referee: S Martin (Staffs).
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Southend burst Bantams' bubble in dramatic end to a dramatic week
8:00am Monday 17th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Southend 2 Bradford City 2
Commonsense and realism have been in short supply at the end of a week that could have been written by Hans Christian Andersen.
Cloud nine does not have room for pragmatists.
But in the cold light of Monday morning, the weekend point from Roots Hall looks a precious one.
It didn't feel like that at the time. Still riding on the euphoria of a certain cup tie, it seemed that nothing could spoil City's mood.
Until Gavin Tomlin shrugged off Stephen Darby to unlock a shattered defence in stoppage time and rescue a draw that Southend probably deserved.
So the Bantams' feet were brought back down to earth, if not with a resounding thud then with enough of a bump to remind us all that League Two
cares little for giant-killing reputations.
But among the muted reaction of a weary squad boarding the team bus, Rory McArdle typically provided the voice of reason.
Having done more than anybody to repel numerous Southend attacks, McArdle put the afternoon after the night before in proper perspective.
He said: "We all saw the papers on Wednesday and it was all about Bradford beating Arsenal. It's been unbelievable really.
"But everybody was on a bit of a comedown after that. So we knew coming to Southend would be tough after the events of the week.
"It wasn't a pretty game because the pitch was heavy after all the bad weather but we've come out the right side.
"I don't think the boys changed their mentality. We'll enjoy the cup success but promotion is the key.
"There was no pressure on us at all last Tuesday but we know what's expected of us in the league.
"And if you'd said before the start of the week that we'd beat Arsenal and get a point at Southend, I'm pretty sure everyone would have taken
that."
Of course it could have been so much better. If Will Atkinson's curler had found the top corner, if somebody had got a toe on the cross from
Zavon Hines that was begging to be tapped home, if referee Stephen Martin had spotted the barge on Matt Duke which Phil Parkinson was so adamant
about before Southend's opener.
And if City had dealt with one last hopeful punt upfield in the first minute of added time.
It was a sloppy equaliser to concede as Paul Smith's clearance was allowed to bounce right through for Tomlin to net for the sixth time in seven
games.
But let's not be too harsh. The back four had been magnificent up to that point against a side as free-flowing and dangerous as anyone they have
encountered – Arsenal included.
As Parkinson had warned, Southend love to ping in crosses and make chances for fun. But for 80 minutes at least, City's defence stood strong.
The late blows owed much to energy tanks and minds running on empty; entirely understandable in the context of a tumultuous few days. No wonder
Parky will shuffle as much as he can at Brentford tomorrow.
Unfortunately defence, the area which could most do with a breather, is the one where he can hardly tinker. Forrayah Bass could make his senior
debut but the unavailability of Tom Naylor and, of course, Curtis Good means the two centre halves could be forced to stay on duty.
McArdle and Carl McHugh had little time to relax on Saturday against the lively pairing of Tomlin and on-loan Watford frontman Britt
Assombalonga.
It was the same for the full backs, James Meredith and Stephen Darby, as Southend attacked with the vigour of a team unbeaten now in 12. But none
of the backline were found wanting.
"We've got defenders who always get in the right position," said their manager. "They are always filling holes at the right time and reading
situations."
There are confident individuals all through the team, none more so than Meredith, who continues to take the step up from non-league in his
effortless long strides.
The Australian is as equally at home in the opposition half as his own. It was his run that set up City's breakthrough for Nahki Wells in the
first half.
Meredith's forward forays also allow Atkinson to tuck inside, his favoured part of the pitch, and the pair dovetailed neatly before the left back
slipped Wells into the box.
Luke Prosser, who had an afternoon he will want to forget, slid across to block his shot. But the deflection merely succeeded in committing the
keeper and popped back in the path of City's striker to take his goal tally to 15.
That setback riled Southend, who spent the rest of the first half and the opening stages of the second camped in Bantam territory.
Assombalonga, Kevan Hurst and Prosser all went close to levelling.
With City penned in, it seemed only a matter of time before a Southend equaliser despite some magnificent resistance.
The visitors needed a break – and got it thanks to the luckless Prosser. Atkinson teased and tormented Chris Barker and whipped in a cross that
bobbled up ominously on the cut-up surface.
Prosser attempted to clear it first time but sliced instead and left his keeper rooted to the spot.
City had never won at Roots Hall until last year. Suddenly the prospect of back-to-back triumphs in deepest Essex loomed large.
Southend boss Paul Sturrock, determined to break the curse of being named manager of the month before the game, went for broke. He had four
strikers on the pitch for the last 20 minutes.
City had plenty more defending to do and were finally undone when Ryan Cresswell emerged strongest from a scrum of players on the end of Hurst's
corner. Parkinson's pleas alleging foul play on Duke fell on deaf ears.
The late momentum was all with the home side and McArdle produced the tackle of the match with a goal-saving intervention on Tomlin.
But just as the 210 travelling fans prepared to salute another huge result, City's weary troops did not react to Smith's booming kick. Tomlin
did, despite Darby's best efforts, to ensure the points were shared.
Parkinson admitted: "Their second goal was purely down to tiredness on our part but I'm not going to criticise.
"It was tough after the Arsenal game but we've got such an honest group of players that they just keep going.
"You could see in the dressing room before kick-off, they were saying themselves they knew the importance of this game. They knew we had to push
ourselves and go again.
"Of course you're down when you don't win after being two up. But this was a good point and I can't tell you how proud I am of these lads."
===========================
Brentford - FA Decision
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20696090
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10104538.Bradford_City_s_week_just_gets_better_and_better/?ref=rss
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10104538.Bradford_City_s_week_just_gets_better_and_better/?ref=rss
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20712896
===========================
Burns Unit Appeal
Ebay auction
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Bantams-Banter-T-Shirt-Signed-By-Alan-Davies-Bradford-City-Legends-/200864799711?
Auction ends 21 Dec, 2012 11:48:15 GMT
One of a kind Bantams Banter t-shirt.
Signed by Bradford City legends; Bobby Campbell, Dean Windass, John Hendrie, Ian Ormandroyd, Jamie Lawrence and Gordon Watson.
Also signed by Comedians Alan Davies and Keith Dover of TV and podcast fame.
All signatures added on THAT night, when Bradford City beat Arsenal!
T-shirt kindly donated by Bowler Clothing
100% of proceeds will go to Bradford Burns Unit Appeal.
===========================
Bradford City boss Parkinson to give youth a chance in FA Cup replay
7:20am Monday 17th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Phil Parkinson may dip into City's youth ranks to face Brentford Tuesday after calling the FA Cup replay "a game we don't need".
The Bantams chief intends to rest as many of his regulars as possible ahead of the demanding League Two schedule over Christmas.
Saturday's 2-2 draw at Southend has left them in fifth.
Parkinson has been given the green light by the board to make mass changes for the trip to Griffin Park after stressing that the promotion bid
must not be affected.
City were reinstated in the FA Cup on appeal after they had been kicked out for fielding Curtis Good in the first game when he was not cleared to
play.
Parkinson agreed with the principle of City fighting their corner but he refuses to jeopardise the games coming up by using players who have
already spent more minutes on the pitch than any others in the country.
He said: "I told the chairmen they did that appeal to get justice for the club because it was a wrong decision. They did not do it to chase more
money in the FA Cup.
"And they said that if I want to play the whole youth team, then I can do that and give them experience in this game. I need to look after the
(senior) players.
"I totally understand why they appealed because it was a ridiculous decision to throw the club out. But it was a game we didn't need."
Parkinson will employ the likes of Ricky Ravenhill, Alan Connell, Ritchie Jones and Zavon Hines – who gave a lively cameo in the last 20 minutes
on Saturday. Kyel Reid also travelled with the squad to Essex and is set to be involved.
But other untried youngsters will beef up the squad.
Parkinson said: "The fans who travel down there should know that I will always put a team out who can do the club justice.
"However Curtis can't play, Tom Naylor can't play, Craig Forsyth can't play and Ross Hannah will be back with us next week but he can't play
because he wasn't registered in time before the first game.
"All the players who need a game will play and I'll try my best to give everybody else a rest. The chairmen are more than happy with that.
"We'll give everyone we can a game and some of the youth team."
Hannah plays the final game of his three-month loan at Grimsby on Friday. The striker has netted eight times for the promotion-chasing Blue
Square Bet side and is likely to be a permanent target when the transfer window opens next month.
Parkinson was chuffed with City's display at Southend, despite seeing them blow a two-goal lead in the last ten minutes.
Nahki Wells put City ahead with his 15th of the season before Luke Prosser's own goal seemed to have clinched a fourth away win. But Southend hit
back through Ryan Cresswell and Gavin Tomlin's injury-time leveller.
Parkinson said: "Of course we're disappointed not to win it but I can't be critical of anyone. It's a great point for us against a good side. I
can't praise the lads enough."
===========================
Help rename the Kop!
Bradford City Football Club is pleased to announce the launch of a new stand partnership.
A number of local businesses have joined together with the Bantams in a joint sponsorship proposition to take over what was formally known as the
Carlsberg Stand at the Coral Windows Stadium.
These organisations have chosen to support the club in a three year deal, in addition to this they have all agreed to allow the fans to rename
the stand.
So a huge thank you from Bradford City to the following organisations for there commitment and support...
Complete IT Systems
Multi Point Locks
Autoelectro
CMI Logistics
Petherbridge Bassra
Mittons
Mittons Aftercare
Robert Watts Estate Agents
If you'd like to get involved and rename your stand, please vote below. The closing date is December 22nd, and anyone who registers will go into
a draw to win a 2012/13 season ticket worth £199 - so get involved today!
Please click HERE to make your choice!
http://www.pulse.co.uk/on-air/pulse-sport/rename-the-kop-and-win-a-season-ticket/
===========================
Early Christmas present
Christmas is just around the corner, and Bradford City have decided to give its supporters an early present!
The club have purchased as many as 2,000 tickets for this Saturday's (22 December 2012) npower League 2 match at Wycombe Wanderers and plan to give them out as presents to fans as a thank you for their superb support this season.
Each ticket will be FREE of charge.
Tickets will be limited to two per person and can be picked up from the Bantams Ticket Office now during its opening hours (9:00am - 5:00pm).
As well as this amazing match ticket deal, City supporters will also be able to secure coach travel to Adams Park for only £10.00 per person.
Again, this will be available from the Bantams Ticket Office.
It is not compulsory, however, for supporters to buy coach tickets to enable them to qualify for free match tickets.
Subject to availability, coach tickets and match tickets will be available from the Bantams Ticket Office until this Friday (21 December 2012).
Friday, December 14, 2012
CC-QF W1-1 (3-2pens) aet (H) Arsenal Tuesday December 11, 2012. K.O. 7:45PM. #bcafc
Bradford 1 Arsenal 1
Thompson 16′ Vermaelen 88′
Bradford win 3-2 on penalties
Att: 23,971
The draw for the Semi finals of the Capital One Cup will be on 19th December.
City reinstated into the FA Cup. The Brentford replay will be Tuesday December 18th ko 7.45pm and the winners will be away to Southend in the third round.
Unoffical highlights
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtdjKbpOmZ4
(audio is out of sync for some reason)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3q8D2zlA9WM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzWPwztGqrQ
The team
Bradford City: Duke; Darby, McArdle, McHugh, Meredith; Thompson (R Jones 72), Doyle, G Jones, Atkinson (Turgott 93); Hanson, Wells (Connell 74).
Unused substitutes: McLaughlin, Ravenhill, Hines, Good.
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
Doubtful for Southend
Wells, jarred knee
Atkinson, hip flexor problem.
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Arsenal
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/arsenal-images-539083.aspx
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
a
http://theoriginalwinger.com/2012-12-11-video-bradford-city-v-arsenal-highlights-goals-penalties-capitol-one-cup
Audio & Video (assume possible black out if outside the uk)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20692707#asset
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20688052#asset
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/9738900/Bradford-City-v-Arsenal-Gervinhos-horror-miss-a-low-point-for-Arsene-Wengers-
side-at-Valley-Parade.html
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=357329&action=stats&lang=EN
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20590500
Commentary
http://m.guardiannews.com/football/2012/dec/11/bradford-city-arsenal-live-mbm
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10101284.Live_Blog__Bantams_v_Arsenal/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20590500
HT 1-0
FT 90 +5
ET 30 +2
Bradford City: Duke; Darby, McArdle, McHugh, Meredith; Thompson (R Jones 72), Doyle, G Jones, Atkinson (Turgott 93); Hanson, Wells (Connell 74).
Unused substitutes: McLaughlin, Ravenhill, Hines, Good.
Arsenal: Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Gibbs; Cazorla, Wilshere, Ramsey (Rosicky 69), Coquelin (Chamakh 60); Gervinho, Podolski
(Oxlade-Chamberlain 69). Unused substitutes: Mannone, Arteta, Squillaci, Jenkinson.
Referee: M Dean (Wirral).
Att: 23,971
===========================
Final whistle - match report
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/parkinson-hails-history-makers-539055.aspx
PUBLISHED 02:58 12th December 2012
Parkinson hails history-makers
A beaming Phil Parkinson was bursting with pride after his City side pulled off one of the biggest cup shocks in recent years by defeating
Premiership giants Arsenal on penalties to reach the final four of the Capital One Cup in front of a bumper Coral Windows Stadium crowd.
Nearly 24,000 packed into Valley Parade to see Parkinson's men unbelievably overcome a star-studded Arsenal line up, including the likes of Jack
Wilshere, Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podolski, 3-2 in a dramatic shoot-out.
The truly memorable result fires City into the Capital One Cup Semi-Finals for the first time ever in the club's history - making them the first
fourth-tier side to reach this stage of the competition since Wycombe Wanderers in the 2006/07 season.
The penalty victory was also incredibly City's NINTH shoot-out win in a row.
Despite the sensational win coming via penalties, however, Parkinson was keen to make sure that the manner of victory didn't detract from the
superb performance levels of his players against Arsenal's internationals.
With City only a few minutes away from winning it in normal time until Thomas Vermaelen's late equaliser, Parkinson's feels his side's
performance made them worthy of victory.
Parkinson said: "The lads were unbelievable tonight."
"The discipline and effort of the players was first-class.
"To be only three minutes away from beating a team of Arsenal's calibre says it all. The talk after the game might be about the penalty shoot-out
win and our run of penalty victories, but that shouldn't take anything away from the lads' performance.
"I thought they were all unbelievable tonight.
"Arsenal have some world-class players, they are an outstanding side and they played some of their very best players, but the lads stuck to their
jobs superbly all night.
"I have to give our players so much credit tonight.
"It was a big, big performance from the lads in front of a full stadium and a tremendous atmosphere.
"This result means everything to us, that's the players, management and staff. We want to try and put Bradford back on the map for the right
things, and nights like tonight will certainly help do that.
"The people of this city have been superb with the club, their support tonight was magnificent, and they deserve a team they can be proud of. I
believe we are getting there with that one."
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Parkinson's pride as Bradford City penalty kings are on cloud NINE
8:00am Wednesday 12th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Giant-slaying City woke up today as Capital One Cup semi-finalists after a night that Phil Parkinson believes fans will cherish "for the rest of
their lives".
Parkinson's warriors stunned a full-strength Arsenal side in front of Valley Parade's biggest crowd since 1960, winning their ninth penalty
shoot-out on the trot after the game finished 1-1.
Garry Thompson's volley was cancelled out by Thomas Varmaelen with only three minutes of normal time to go. But the Belgian's miss during
penalties proved decisive as City sealed one of the biggest results in their history to reach the semi-final of the competition for the first
time.
Parkinson admitted: "I'm very proud of the boys. I don't really want to single anyone out but there were some tremendous performances.
"It hasn't really sunk in for them or for me yet and I don't think the enormity of what they have achieved will do until today.
"It was a night to remember. We want to put this club and this city back on the map – football clubs can do that.
"This is a fantastic football club. You could just feel the support and passion around the ground.
"I came in at 4.30 and you could start sensing it then.
"It was a very special night for everybody. All the people here, especially all the kids, will remember it for the rest of their lives."
Arsene Wenger surprised City by putting out his best team but the home side refused to be fazed by their big-name opponents.
Parkinson said: "He'd been saying in the press that he'd bring a strong squad but I didn't expect him to go 'bang' and play them all. Seeing the
likes of Jack Wilshere and (Santi) Carzola in there was a real surprise.
"The talk will be about the penalties again but I'd rather praise the performance. It was sensational.
"We've taken on Arsenal's best team and were leading with three minutes to go. Then we had the setback of conceding the goal and had to go again.
But I thought the lads were outstanding and showed immense quality once again.
"Once their goal went in, I was glad there were only three minutes because you could just see us dip. That's understandable.
"But we asked the lads afterwards if they were fit and strong enough to go again (in extra-time) and they showed they were. They weren't going
under."
Skipper Gary Jones, a scorer in the shoot-out, called it "one of the best nights of my life" before adding: "We've just knocked Arsenal out of
the Capital One Cup. It was 11 versus 11 and we had to keep our shape and frustrate them."
Goalkeeper Matt Duke, who saved a penalty from Santi Cazorla, said: "We set our stall out and the men in front of me were fantastic. We are
really fit as a team and that showed."
===========================
Pre match media talk
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/20676255#asset
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2246356/Bradford-City-v-Arsenal-preview-10-things-love-Bradford.html
http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/bradford-city/gunners-head-for-bradford-with-only-four-of-pl-line-up-against-west-brom-1-5213275
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10099390.Bradford_City__Tight_lipped_Bould_let_nothing_slip_at_50th_bash_says_Parkin
http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20121211/SPORT01/712119950
http://arsenallatest.com/news/692-bradford-city-v-arsenal-preview.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2246387/Andrey-Arshavin-returns-Bradford-City.html
===========================
Selection of other match reports and comments, or at least the ones that don't have the Gunners feeling sorry for themselves
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/the-northerner/2012/dec/12/bradford-bradford-city-bantams-arsenal-valley-parade
http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/news/newsid=1906532.html
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2012/dec/12/bradford-city-double-celebration-arsenal
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/dec/12/torquay-arsenal-bradford-captain-jones
(I'm not a guardian pusher, I see the links, I copy them!)
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10107988.Bantams_won_t_let_cup_hysteria_knock_them_off_track/?ref=rss
http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/bradford-city/sleepless-night-for-bradford-s-penalty-hero-duke-1-5219970
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/12/bradford-city-arsenal-penalties-capital-one-cup_n_2287958.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2247634/Bradford-City-invite-Diana-Ross-practise-penalties.html
===========================
Lawn hails Bantams' cup win
Wednesday 12th December 2012 15:27
Bradford's co-chairman Mark Lawn has his eyes on a Wembley final after the Bantams made it into the last four of the Capital One Cup.
Lawn, who admits he is "probably the only chairman with a tattoo of the club on his arm", woke up with a thick head on Wednesday morning "after a
few sherberts" and the dawning realisation that League Two side Bradford are only two semi-final legs away from a dream final.
It is a far cry from the grim years of 2002 and 2004 when the club suffered two administrations, and two relegations, following a period of
over-spending in the Premier League.
Lawn, who bailed out the debt-laden club in 2007, admits he was expecting the worst when he saw Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had put out a full-
strength team.
He said: "When I saw the side they put out I thought we were going to get hammered but the lads did brilliant.
"We were a fourth division club up against a Champions League team - because that's what Arsenal were last night - and what our lads did was
quite amazing.
"I have been a Bradford fan all my life - I'm probably the only chairman with a tattoo of the club on my arm.
"I went to my first match in 1964 when I was four, and last night ranks up there with the greatest in our history. Given the gulf between the
sides it has to be up there.
"We've only one player who cost a fee, and that was James Hanson for £7,500.
"Phil Parkinson got his tactics absolutely perfect. We have to give a big shout out to all the management team, in fact to everybody, right down
to the cleaning lady. "
Lawn, the founder of a nationwide driver recruitment business, celebrated last night in the way he knew best - with the friends with whom he used
to stand on the terraces at Valley Parade.
He added: "I didn't get to bed until past 5am. I had a few sherberts with some of the lads I used to go to matches with, and sung a few of the
old songs."
The victory has changed Lawn's attitude to the opponents he would like Bradford to face in the semis. Instead of another glory tie with Chelsea,
the prospect of progressing to the final has made Lawn question whether the Bantams would be better off facing Championship opposition.
"I did say Chelsea originally but now I'm thinking maybe Leeds or Boro to have more of a chance getting to Wembley," he said.
"Leeds would certainly be a money-spinner but there would be a lot of stuff off the pitch to contend with too.
"The most important thing is that we are in the semi-final.
"This club has been through such a lot, a £34million administration the first time and then a second administration and I got involved after that
to get us onto an even keel.
"A lot of praise has to go to [co-chairman] Julian Rhodes whose family nearly lost everything including their houses supporting this club.
"It was a great, great night for this club against Arsenal, and one that nobody who was there will ever forget."
===========================
http://www.itv.com/sport/football/article/2012-12-13/gazidis-upset-and-angry-at-cup-exit/
[Extract]
As for the performance against Bradford, one of the Bantams players, Gary Jones, compared Arsenal unfavourably with npower League Two rivals
Torquay who they played last weekend.
"I think Torquay gave us a tougher game," Jones was quoted as saying in several national newspapers this morning.
"It was like a role reversal against them. Torquay defended well against us and we defended really well against Arsenal. The lads were
unbelievable."
Asked if Arsenal should have been embarrassed by the result, Jones added: "Without a shadow of a doubt. No disrespect to us and our lads but they
should be beating Bradford City."
===========================
No place like home for Bradford City boss
8:00am Friday 14th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Roots Hall tomorrow will seem a world away from the euphoria of the Capital One Cup.
After a rocking Valley Parade against Arsenal, the Bantams hit the long road to Southend.
While it will ensure all City's thoughts are firmly fixed back on their league quest, Phil Parkinson admits he would prefer to have followed up
Tuesday night with another game on their own patch.
"I'd rather have been at home because we're riding on the back of our supporters," he said. "They are such a big part of it.
"I know it's a cliché that managers always come out with saying how great their supporters are.
"But in this case it's very genuine from me and all the players.
"Our supporters are a big part with what we're trying to achieve here. Without their positivity created in the ground, it would be very difficult
to get through all the games we've done."
That has not always been the case at Valley Parade during the club's recent bleak period. But while encouraging a change of attitude on the
pitch, Parkinson has felt a similar shift off it.
He is well aware that the results-driven nature of the business can soon upset that balance but feels that right now there is a genuine bond
within the club. The fans have trust in their team.
Parkinson added: "There have been some good examples of the relationship between the players and supporters at the moment.
"You look back to last Saturday when it was 0-0 against Torquay when they were down to ten men (after Brian Saah was sent off). There was no
agitation but a real understanding among the supporters.
"There have been other games when we've been behind and they see what's happening. They understand when we might make changes from the bench to
try to liven things up.
"That's got to continue. We're really at the early stages of this season and so are the supporters.
"Whatever we're doing now in the league it's where we are at the end of April and early May that counts."
===========================
And to recap, the British record, English record and un-offical World record...of failing to win a game in normal time!
Bradford penalty kings
6 October 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Notts County (h)
10 November 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Port Vale (h)
30 August 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield Wednesday (a)
4 October 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Huddersfield (a)
8 November 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield United (a)
9 October 2012: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Hartlepool (a)
30 October 2012: Capital One Cup - Wigan (a)
13 November 2012: FA Cup - Northampton (h)
11 December 2012: Capital One Cup - Arsenal (h)
===========================
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=357329&action=live&lang=EN&wjb=
Penalty Takers
Bradford City
1-0 N. Doyle (M) scored
(Right High)
Arsenal
1-0 S. Cazorla (M) missed (saved)
(Right Low)
Bradford City
2-0 G. Jones (M) scored
(Left High)
Arsenal
2-0 M. Chamakh (F) missed
(Left Upright)
Bradford City
2-0 S. Darby (D) missed (saved)
(Right Low)
Arsenal
2-1 J. Wilshere (M) scored
(Right Low)
Bradford City
3-1 A. Connell (F) scored
(Left High)
Arsenal
3-2 A. Oxlade-Chamberlain (M) scored
(Left Low)
Bradford City
3-2 R. Jones (M) missed (saved)
(Centre Low)
Arsenal
3-2 T. Vermaelen (D) missed
(Right Upright)
===========================
Thompson 16′ Vermaelen 88′
Bradford win 3-2 on penalties
Att: 23,971
The draw for the Semi finals of the Capital One Cup will be on 19th December.
City reinstated into the FA Cup. The Brentford replay will be Tuesday December 18th ko 7.45pm and the winners will be away to Southend in the third round.
Unoffical highlights
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtdjKbpOmZ4
(audio is out of sync for some reason)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3q8D2zlA9WM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzWPwztGqrQ
The team
Bradford City: Duke; Darby, McArdle, McHugh, Meredith; Thompson (R Jones 72), Doyle, G Jones, Atkinson (Turgott 93); Hanson, Wells (Connell 74).
Unused substitutes: McLaughlin, Ravenhill, Hines, Good.
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
Doubtful for Southend
Wells, jarred knee
Atkinson, hip flexor problem.
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Arsenal
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/arsenal-images-539083.aspx
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
a
http://theoriginalwinger.com/2012-12-11-video-bradford-city-v-arsenal-highlights-goals-penalties-capitol-one-cup
Audio & Video (assume possible black out if outside the uk)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20692707#asset
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20688052#asset
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/9738900/Bradford-City-v-Arsenal-Gervinhos-horror-miss-a-low-point-for-Arsene-Wengers-
side-at-Valley-Parade.html
Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=357329&action=stats&lang=EN
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20590500
Commentary
http://m.guardiannews.com/football/2012/dec/11/bradford-city-arsenal-live-mbm
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10101284.Live_Blog__Bantams_v_Arsenal/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20590500
HT 1-0
FT 90 +5
ET 30 +2
Bradford City: Duke; Darby, McArdle, McHugh, Meredith; Thompson (R Jones 72), Doyle, G Jones, Atkinson (Turgott 93); Hanson, Wells (Connell 74).
Unused substitutes: McLaughlin, Ravenhill, Hines, Good.
Arsenal: Szczesny; Sagna, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Gibbs; Cazorla, Wilshere, Ramsey (Rosicky 69), Coquelin (Chamakh 60); Gervinho, Podolski
(Oxlade-Chamberlain 69). Unused substitutes: Mannone, Arteta, Squillaci, Jenkinson.
Referee: M Dean (Wirral).
Att: 23,971
===========================
Final whistle - match report
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/parkinson-hails-history-makers-539055.aspx
PUBLISHED 02:58 12th December 2012
Parkinson hails history-makers
A beaming Phil Parkinson was bursting with pride after his City side pulled off one of the biggest cup shocks in recent years by defeating
Premiership giants Arsenal on penalties to reach the final four of the Capital One Cup in front of a bumper Coral Windows Stadium crowd.
Nearly 24,000 packed into Valley Parade to see Parkinson's men unbelievably overcome a star-studded Arsenal line up, including the likes of Jack
Wilshere, Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podolski, 3-2 in a dramatic shoot-out.
The truly memorable result fires City into the Capital One Cup Semi-Finals for the first time ever in the club's history - making them the first
fourth-tier side to reach this stage of the competition since Wycombe Wanderers in the 2006/07 season.
The penalty victory was also incredibly City's NINTH shoot-out win in a row.
Despite the sensational win coming via penalties, however, Parkinson was keen to make sure that the manner of victory didn't detract from the
superb performance levels of his players against Arsenal's internationals.
With City only a few minutes away from winning it in normal time until Thomas Vermaelen's late equaliser, Parkinson's feels his side's
performance made them worthy of victory.
Parkinson said: "The lads were unbelievable tonight."
"The discipline and effort of the players was first-class.
"To be only three minutes away from beating a team of Arsenal's calibre says it all. The talk after the game might be about the penalty shoot-out
win and our run of penalty victories, but that shouldn't take anything away from the lads' performance.
"I thought they were all unbelievable tonight.
"Arsenal have some world-class players, they are an outstanding side and they played some of their very best players, but the lads stuck to their
jobs superbly all night.
"I have to give our players so much credit tonight.
"It was a big, big performance from the lads in front of a full stadium and a tremendous atmosphere.
"This result means everything to us, that's the players, management and staff. We want to try and put Bradford back on the map for the right
things, and nights like tonight will certainly help do that.
"The people of this city have been superb with the club, their support tonight was magnificent, and they deserve a team they can be proud of. I
believe we are getting there with that one."
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Parkinson's pride as Bradford City penalty kings are on cloud NINE
8:00am Wednesday 12th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Giant-slaying City woke up today as Capital One Cup semi-finalists after a night that Phil Parkinson believes fans will cherish "for the rest of
their lives".
Parkinson's warriors stunned a full-strength Arsenal side in front of Valley Parade's biggest crowd since 1960, winning their ninth penalty
shoot-out on the trot after the game finished 1-1.
Garry Thompson's volley was cancelled out by Thomas Varmaelen with only three minutes of normal time to go. But the Belgian's miss during
penalties proved decisive as City sealed one of the biggest results in their history to reach the semi-final of the competition for the first
time.
Parkinson admitted: "I'm very proud of the boys. I don't really want to single anyone out but there were some tremendous performances.
"It hasn't really sunk in for them or for me yet and I don't think the enormity of what they have achieved will do until today.
"It was a night to remember. We want to put this club and this city back on the map – football clubs can do that.
"This is a fantastic football club. You could just feel the support and passion around the ground.
"I came in at 4.30 and you could start sensing it then.
"It was a very special night for everybody. All the people here, especially all the kids, will remember it for the rest of their lives."
Arsene Wenger surprised City by putting out his best team but the home side refused to be fazed by their big-name opponents.
Parkinson said: "He'd been saying in the press that he'd bring a strong squad but I didn't expect him to go 'bang' and play them all. Seeing the
likes of Jack Wilshere and (Santi) Carzola in there was a real surprise.
"The talk will be about the penalties again but I'd rather praise the performance. It was sensational.
"We've taken on Arsenal's best team and were leading with three minutes to go. Then we had the setback of conceding the goal and had to go again.
But I thought the lads were outstanding and showed immense quality once again.
"Once their goal went in, I was glad there were only three minutes because you could just see us dip. That's understandable.
"But we asked the lads afterwards if they were fit and strong enough to go again (in extra-time) and they showed they were. They weren't going
under."
Skipper Gary Jones, a scorer in the shoot-out, called it "one of the best nights of my life" before adding: "We've just knocked Arsenal out of
the Capital One Cup. It was 11 versus 11 and we had to keep our shape and frustrate them."
Goalkeeper Matt Duke, who saved a penalty from Santi Cazorla, said: "We set our stall out and the men in front of me were fantastic. We are
really fit as a team and that showed."
===========================
Pre match media talk
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/20676255#asset
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2246356/Bradford-City-v-Arsenal-preview-10-things-love-Bradford.html
http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/bradford-city/gunners-head-for-bradford-with-only-four-of-pl-line-up-against-west-brom-1-5213275
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10099390.Bradford_City__Tight_lipped_Bould_let_nothing_slip_at_50th_bash_says_Parkin
http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20121211/SPORT01/712119950
http://arsenallatest.com/news/692-bradford-city-v-arsenal-preview.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2246387/Andrey-Arshavin-returns-Bradford-City.html
===========================
Selection of other match reports and comments, or at least the ones that don't have the Gunners feeling sorry for themselves
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/the-northerner/2012/dec/12/bradford-bradford-city-bantams-arsenal-valley-parade
http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/news/newsid=1906532.html
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2012/dec/12/bradford-city-double-celebration-arsenal
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/dec/12/torquay-arsenal-bradford-captain-jones
(I'm not a guardian pusher, I see the links, I copy them!)
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10107988.Bantams_won_t_let_cup_hysteria_knock_them_off_track/?ref=rss
http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/bradford-city/sleepless-night-for-bradford-s-penalty-hero-duke-1-5219970
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/12/bradford-city-arsenal-penalties-capital-one-cup_n_2287958.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2247634/Bradford-City-invite-Diana-Ross-practise-penalties.html
===========================
Lawn hails Bantams' cup win
Wednesday 12th December 2012 15:27
Bradford's co-chairman Mark Lawn has his eyes on a Wembley final after the Bantams made it into the last four of the Capital One Cup.
Lawn, who admits he is "probably the only chairman with a tattoo of the club on his arm", woke up with a thick head on Wednesday morning "after a
few sherberts" and the dawning realisation that League Two side Bradford are only two semi-final legs away from a dream final.
It is a far cry from the grim years of 2002 and 2004 when the club suffered two administrations, and two relegations, following a period of
over-spending in the Premier League.
Lawn, who bailed out the debt-laden club in 2007, admits he was expecting the worst when he saw Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had put out a full-
strength team.
He said: "When I saw the side they put out I thought we were going to get hammered but the lads did brilliant.
"We were a fourth division club up against a Champions League team - because that's what Arsenal were last night - and what our lads did was
quite amazing.
"I have been a Bradford fan all my life - I'm probably the only chairman with a tattoo of the club on my arm.
"I went to my first match in 1964 when I was four, and last night ranks up there with the greatest in our history. Given the gulf between the
sides it has to be up there.
"We've only one player who cost a fee, and that was James Hanson for £7,500.
"Phil Parkinson got his tactics absolutely perfect. We have to give a big shout out to all the management team, in fact to everybody, right down
to the cleaning lady. "
Lawn, the founder of a nationwide driver recruitment business, celebrated last night in the way he knew best - with the friends with whom he used
to stand on the terraces at Valley Parade.
He added: "I didn't get to bed until past 5am. I had a few sherberts with some of the lads I used to go to matches with, and sung a few of the
old songs."
The victory has changed Lawn's attitude to the opponents he would like Bradford to face in the semis. Instead of another glory tie with Chelsea,
the prospect of progressing to the final has made Lawn question whether the Bantams would be better off facing Championship opposition.
"I did say Chelsea originally but now I'm thinking maybe Leeds or Boro to have more of a chance getting to Wembley," he said.
"Leeds would certainly be a money-spinner but there would be a lot of stuff off the pitch to contend with too.
"The most important thing is that we are in the semi-final.
"This club has been through such a lot, a £34million administration the first time and then a second administration and I got involved after that
to get us onto an even keel.
"A lot of praise has to go to [co-chairman] Julian Rhodes whose family nearly lost everything including their houses supporting this club.
"It was a great, great night for this club against Arsenal, and one that nobody who was there will ever forget."
===========================
http://www.itv.com/sport/football/article/2012-12-13/gazidis-upset-and-angry-at-cup-exit/
[Extract]
As for the performance against Bradford, one of the Bantams players, Gary Jones, compared Arsenal unfavourably with npower League Two rivals
Torquay who they played last weekend.
"I think Torquay gave us a tougher game," Jones was quoted as saying in several national newspapers this morning.
"It was like a role reversal against them. Torquay defended well against us and we defended really well against Arsenal. The lads were
unbelievable."
Asked if Arsenal should have been embarrassed by the result, Jones added: "Without a shadow of a doubt. No disrespect to us and our lads but they
should be beating Bradford City."
===========================
No place like home for Bradford City boss
8:00am Friday 14th December 2012
By Simon Parker
Roots Hall tomorrow will seem a world away from the euphoria of the Capital One Cup.
After a rocking Valley Parade against Arsenal, the Bantams hit the long road to Southend.
While it will ensure all City's thoughts are firmly fixed back on their league quest, Phil Parkinson admits he would prefer to have followed up
Tuesday night with another game on their own patch.
"I'd rather have been at home because we're riding on the back of our supporters," he said. "They are such a big part of it.
"I know it's a cliché that managers always come out with saying how great their supporters are.
"But in this case it's very genuine from me and all the players.
"Our supporters are a big part with what we're trying to achieve here. Without their positivity created in the ground, it would be very difficult
to get through all the games we've done."
That has not always been the case at Valley Parade during the club's recent bleak period. But while encouraging a change of attitude on the
pitch, Parkinson has felt a similar shift off it.
He is well aware that the results-driven nature of the business can soon upset that balance but feels that right now there is a genuine bond
within the club. The fans have trust in their team.
Parkinson added: "There have been some good examples of the relationship between the players and supporters at the moment.
"You look back to last Saturday when it was 0-0 against Torquay when they were down to ten men (after Brian Saah was sent off). There was no
agitation but a real understanding among the supporters.
"There have been other games when we've been behind and they see what's happening. They understand when we might make changes from the bench to
try to liven things up.
"That's got to continue. We're really at the early stages of this season and so are the supporters.
"Whatever we're doing now in the league it's where we are at the end of April and early May that counts."
===========================
And to recap, the British record, English record and un-offical World record...of failing to win a game in normal time!
Bradford penalty kings
6 October 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Notts County (h)
10 November 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Port Vale (h)
30 August 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield Wednesday (a)
4 October 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Huddersfield (a)
8 November 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield United (a)
9 October 2012: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Hartlepool (a)
30 October 2012: Capital One Cup - Wigan (a)
13 November 2012: FA Cup - Northampton (h)
11 December 2012: Capital One Cup - Arsenal (h)
===========================
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=357329&action=live&lang=EN&wjb=
Penalty Takers
Bradford City
1-0 N. Doyle (M) scored
(Right High)
Arsenal
1-0 S. Cazorla (M) missed (saved)
(Right Low)
Bradford City
2-0 G. Jones (M) scored
(Left High)
Arsenal
2-0 M. Chamakh (F) missed
(Left Upright)
Bradford City
2-0 S. Darby (D) missed (saved)
(Right Low)
Arsenal
2-1 J. Wilshere (M) scored
(Right Low)
Bradford City
3-1 A. Connell (F) scored
(Left High)
Arsenal
3-2 A. Oxlade-Chamberlain (M) scored
(Left Low)
Bradford City
3-2 R. Jones (M) missed (saved)
(Centre Low)
Arsenal
3-2 T. Vermaelen (D) missed
(Right Upright)
===========================
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
L2 W1-0 (H) Torquay Saturday December 9, 2012. K.O. 3:00PM. #bcafc
Npower League Two
Bradford C (0) 1 Connell 85
Torquay Utd (0) 0
Att: 9,347
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
Tom Naylor on loan from Derby County until 12 January
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20564891
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=345216&action=stats&lang=EN
===========================
Final whistle - match report
Report By Ron Heppenstall (T&A)
Alan Connell was the second-half hero for City after climbing off the bench
to finally break the stubborn resistance of 10-man Torquay with a brilliant
winner.
The striker, an 80th-minute replacement for Carl McHugh, struck five minutes
later with a sumptuous right-foot strike which flew into the net from 20
yards out.
The goal was created by the outstanding Nahki Wells and was just reward for
City's dominance on a largely frustrating afternoon.
Phil Parkinson's men enjoyed a numerical advantage for 55 minutes after
visiting captain Brian Saah was sent off for an off-the-ball challenge on
James Meredith.
Torquay hit the post moments later when substitute Niall Thompson curled a
20-yard shot against the post but it was City who went on to dominate the
game before Connell finally made it pay.
During the first half, James Hanson saw a header rebound off the crossbar
and was then denied a penalty on the stroke of half-time after being hauled
down by Aaron Downes.
Wells, who was a constant menace throughout, then saw a shot deflected onto
the post by Torquay goalkeeper Michael Poke midway through the second half.
City fashioned numerous other half-chances but looked set to be left
frustrated until Connell's timely introduction.
The substitute's strike gave the Bantams the win they craved ahead of
Tuesday's crunch Capital One Cup quarter-final with Arsenal.
"Bring on the Arsenal" was the chant from the Bantams faithful in the
closing stages as Tuesday's clash came into clear focus.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Bradford City: Sensation-al late Connell strike breaks Torquay's resistance
7:20am Monday 10th December 2012
By Ross Heppenstall
Bradford City 1 Torquay 0
It emanated from the Kop and gradually reverberated around the stadium.
"Bring on the Arsenal," was the chant from the City faithful, almost immediately after Phil Parkinson's men had eventually forged ahead.
Eighty-five minutes of frustration had been wiped away thanks to a delightful strike from substitute Alan Connell.
Nahki Wells engineered the space to find Connell 20 yards out and he unleashed a right-footed half-volley which flew into the net.
It was the least City deserved for their stunning superiority.
The last five minutes felt like a pre-Arsenal party.
The feel-good factor at the final whistle was palpable.
Three points in the bag, the Bantams up to fourth, and tomorrow's date with Arsene Wenger's aristocrats in clear focus.
It was entirely apt that the mood of a football club ahead of its biggest game for over a decade should be decided by a man with such strong Arsenal connections.
Goal-hero Connell remains a Gunners fanatic, albeit one who spent his younger days on the books at hated London rivals Tottenham.
"I had six years at Tottenham as a kid," he said. "I used to wear my Arsenal kit, which didn't go down well at times.
"I remember once at Tottenham, in the Under-11s or 12s, we lost 5-1 to Arsenal… but I got the one!"
Victory was the perfect way to warm up for tomorrow's much-anticipated encounter, although City did it the hard way.
Credit to Torquay, of course.
They could easily have buckled after losing skipper Brian Saah to a red card ten minutes before the break.
The centre back apparently elbowed James Meredith off the ball and was promptly dismissed by referee Darren Bond.
Asked about the incident afterwards, City boss Parkinson, a la Wenger, said: "I didn't see it at all."
Even before that, though, the Bantams were generally superior.
The big guns were back after being rested for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy win at Port Vale and their class gradually told.
Skipper Gary Jones and Nathan Doyle bossed proceedings in the middle of the park and Will Atkinson and Garry Thompson offered creativity and width on the flanks.
City came desperately close in the second minute when Meredith found Wells and he flighted in a delightful cross from the left to pick out James Hanson.
The forward greeted his strike partner's delivery with a firm header but Michael Poke tipped the ball over superbly for a corner.
It was the first of several fine saves from the Torquay stopper.
The visitors began to establish a foothold on proceedings during the first half and looked capable of causing City problems at times.
But, with Jones and Doyle emerging as the game's most influential figures, the momentum remained largely with the Bantams.
Referee Bond changed his jersey colour from black to green and then ordered Parkinson to stay calm after he contested a free-kick which went against City.
Jones then a hit shot from 25 yards which was deflected for a corner.
Moments later Thompson headed down a deep cross into the path of Hanson, who fired straight at Poke under pressure from a Torquay defender.
A Jones free-kick was then headed back by Hanson amid home appeals for handball.
The ball fell to Thompson, who hooked it over the bar as City struggled to convert their control into goals.
Moments later Wells ran at the visiting defence before blazing over from the edge of the 18-yard box.
Torquay almost scored out of nowhere when defender Aaron Downes headed over the bar from inside the six-yard box from Nathan Craig's right-wing inswinging corner.
Atkinson then had a shot deflected for a corner, which Jones delivered and Rory McArdle headed over.
Then came the moment of first-half controversy when Torquay skipper Saah was sent off for an off-the-ball challenge on Meredith ten minutes before the break.
Meredith was fit to play on after brief treatment.
The momentum was now clearly with City but could they make it pay?
Well, certainly not until Connell's timely intervention.
And moments after losing Saah, City almost fell behind.
Torquay substitute Niall Thompson cracked a low shot against the post from 25 yards before Atkinson crossed for Thompson to flash a header wide.
A low cross from Stephen Darby then found Hanson but he could only scuff a low shot straight into Poke's midriff.
As the interval approached, Wells picked out Hanson at the far post with a superb left-wing cross which the big striker headed against the crossbar.
It was the closest City came to breaking the deadlock during the opening period, although they were denied a penalty in first-half added time.
Hanson appeared to be hauled down by Downes as the two men contested the ball but the referee saw no wrongdoing.
Hanson and Downes debated the incident as they walked off at the break.
But there was no disguising the feeling that Torquay's ten men were there for the taking.
City upped the tempo after the break and almost led in the 50th minute when Wells crossed dangerously from the left again and Thompson's volleyed effort was deflected for a corner.
Wells' influence grew as the second half wore on and he looked in a different class at times with his clever footwork and pace.
Torquay, thanks to a combination of obstinate defending, fine goalkeeping and good fortune, managed to keep City at bay.
Shortly after the hour mark, Parkinson replaced Thompson and Wells then showed brilliant skill to outfox a Torquay defender and send in a low cross which was cleared.
Midway through the second half, Atkinson slipped in Wells but the striker's shot was repelled by Poke's legs. Three minutes later the ball again fell to Wells and his low shot was tipped onto a post by Poke.
Substitute Blair Turgott then curled a fine shot wide from distance before Connell was introduced at the expense of Carl McHugh with ten minutes remaining.
Within five minutes he had won City the game.
Wells, typically, created the space inside the left channel and laid the ball into the path of Connell, who showed outstanding technique to fire home a rising, right-footed half-volley from 20 yards.
"It was a nice strike and a great feeling to see it go in," said Connell.
"The gaffer said beforehand that this was a much bigger game than the Arsenal game.
"Will I play on Tuesday? Of course I want to play. But if I don't start then hopefully I can come on and do well.
"We've obviously played more games than any other team and the gaffer keeps emphasising that it is a squad game.
"I've been in promotion-winning squads before and this squad has that same sort of feeling to it."
===========================
BRADFORD CITY DRAWN AWAY TO CREWE IN JPT
By Ross Heppenstall (T&A)
City will travel to Crewe Alexandra in the Northern area semi-final of the
Johnstone's Paint Trophy following today's draw.
The Bantams won at Port Vale earlier this week while the Alex were defeating
Doncaster Rovers on penalties at the Keepmoat Stadium.
The tie will be played at Gresty Road in the week commencing 7th January.
Coventry City host Bury or Preston North End in the other semi-final.
In the Southern section Oxford United face Southend United and Leyton
Orient take on Yeovil Town.
===========================
JPT Win Bonuses
First: £5,000 - Bye
Second: £7,000 - W (pens 3-2) 0-0 v Hartlepool (away)
Area Quarter Final: £10,000 W 2-0 v Port Vale (away)
Area Semi Final: £17,000
Area Final: £25,500
Winners: £40,000 (at Wembley)
===========================
Bantams hearing against FA Cup expulsion set for Wednesday
8:49pm Monday 10th December 2012
By Sports Desk
City's hearing for their appeal against their FA Cup expulsion will take place on Wednesday at Wembley.
The Bantams are hoping to overturn the decision to throw them out of the competition for fielding Curtis Good as an ineligible player.
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew had given City verbal permission to field the on-loan Magpies player against Brentford in the 1-1 draw at Valley Parade but the Bantams failed to obtain written confirmation before the required deadline.
Bradford C (0) 1 Connell 85
Torquay Utd (0) 0
Att: 9,347
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
Tom Naylor on loan from Derby County until 12 January
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20564891
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=345216&action=stats&lang=EN
===========================
Final whistle - match report
Report By Ron Heppenstall (T&A)
Alan Connell was the second-half hero for City after climbing off the bench
to finally break the stubborn resistance of 10-man Torquay with a brilliant
winner.
The striker, an 80th-minute replacement for Carl McHugh, struck five minutes
later with a sumptuous right-foot strike which flew into the net from 20
yards out.
The goal was created by the outstanding Nahki Wells and was just reward for
City's dominance on a largely frustrating afternoon.
Phil Parkinson's men enjoyed a numerical advantage for 55 minutes after
visiting captain Brian Saah was sent off for an off-the-ball challenge on
James Meredith.
Torquay hit the post moments later when substitute Niall Thompson curled a
20-yard shot against the post but it was City who went on to dominate the
game before Connell finally made it pay.
During the first half, James Hanson saw a header rebound off the crossbar
and was then denied a penalty on the stroke of half-time after being hauled
down by Aaron Downes.
Wells, who was a constant menace throughout, then saw a shot deflected onto
the post by Torquay goalkeeper Michael Poke midway through the second half.
City fashioned numerous other half-chances but looked set to be left
frustrated until Connell's timely introduction.
The substitute's strike gave the Bantams the win they craved ahead of
Tuesday's crunch Capital One Cup quarter-final with Arsenal.
"Bring on the Arsenal" was the chant from the Bantams faithful in the
closing stages as Tuesday's clash came into clear focus.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Bradford City: Sensation-al late Connell strike breaks Torquay's resistance
7:20am Monday 10th December 2012
By Ross Heppenstall
Bradford City 1 Torquay 0
It emanated from the Kop and gradually reverberated around the stadium.
"Bring on the Arsenal," was the chant from the City faithful, almost immediately after Phil Parkinson's men had eventually forged ahead.
Eighty-five minutes of frustration had been wiped away thanks to a delightful strike from substitute Alan Connell.
Nahki Wells engineered the space to find Connell 20 yards out and he unleashed a right-footed half-volley which flew into the net.
It was the least City deserved for their stunning superiority.
The last five minutes felt like a pre-Arsenal party.
The feel-good factor at the final whistle was palpable.
Three points in the bag, the Bantams up to fourth, and tomorrow's date with Arsene Wenger's aristocrats in clear focus.
It was entirely apt that the mood of a football club ahead of its biggest game for over a decade should be decided by a man with such strong Arsenal connections.
Goal-hero Connell remains a Gunners fanatic, albeit one who spent his younger days on the books at hated London rivals Tottenham.
"I had six years at Tottenham as a kid," he said. "I used to wear my Arsenal kit, which didn't go down well at times.
"I remember once at Tottenham, in the Under-11s or 12s, we lost 5-1 to Arsenal… but I got the one!"
Victory was the perfect way to warm up for tomorrow's much-anticipated encounter, although City did it the hard way.
Credit to Torquay, of course.
They could easily have buckled after losing skipper Brian Saah to a red card ten minutes before the break.
The centre back apparently elbowed James Meredith off the ball and was promptly dismissed by referee Darren Bond.
Asked about the incident afterwards, City boss Parkinson, a la Wenger, said: "I didn't see it at all."
Even before that, though, the Bantams were generally superior.
The big guns were back after being rested for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy win at Port Vale and their class gradually told.
Skipper Gary Jones and Nathan Doyle bossed proceedings in the middle of the park and Will Atkinson and Garry Thompson offered creativity and width on the flanks.
City came desperately close in the second minute when Meredith found Wells and he flighted in a delightful cross from the left to pick out James Hanson.
The forward greeted his strike partner's delivery with a firm header but Michael Poke tipped the ball over superbly for a corner.
It was the first of several fine saves from the Torquay stopper.
The visitors began to establish a foothold on proceedings during the first half and looked capable of causing City problems at times.
But, with Jones and Doyle emerging as the game's most influential figures, the momentum remained largely with the Bantams.
Referee Bond changed his jersey colour from black to green and then ordered Parkinson to stay calm after he contested a free-kick which went against City.
Jones then a hit shot from 25 yards which was deflected for a corner.
Moments later Thompson headed down a deep cross into the path of Hanson, who fired straight at Poke under pressure from a Torquay defender.
A Jones free-kick was then headed back by Hanson amid home appeals for handball.
The ball fell to Thompson, who hooked it over the bar as City struggled to convert their control into goals.
Moments later Wells ran at the visiting defence before blazing over from the edge of the 18-yard box.
Torquay almost scored out of nowhere when defender Aaron Downes headed over the bar from inside the six-yard box from Nathan Craig's right-wing inswinging corner.
Atkinson then had a shot deflected for a corner, which Jones delivered and Rory McArdle headed over.
Then came the moment of first-half controversy when Torquay skipper Saah was sent off for an off-the-ball challenge on Meredith ten minutes before the break.
Meredith was fit to play on after brief treatment.
The momentum was now clearly with City but could they make it pay?
Well, certainly not until Connell's timely intervention.
And moments after losing Saah, City almost fell behind.
Torquay substitute Niall Thompson cracked a low shot against the post from 25 yards before Atkinson crossed for Thompson to flash a header wide.
A low cross from Stephen Darby then found Hanson but he could only scuff a low shot straight into Poke's midriff.
As the interval approached, Wells picked out Hanson at the far post with a superb left-wing cross which the big striker headed against the crossbar.
It was the closest City came to breaking the deadlock during the opening period, although they were denied a penalty in first-half added time.
Hanson appeared to be hauled down by Downes as the two men contested the ball but the referee saw no wrongdoing.
Hanson and Downes debated the incident as they walked off at the break.
But there was no disguising the feeling that Torquay's ten men were there for the taking.
City upped the tempo after the break and almost led in the 50th minute when Wells crossed dangerously from the left again and Thompson's volleyed effort was deflected for a corner.
Wells' influence grew as the second half wore on and he looked in a different class at times with his clever footwork and pace.
Torquay, thanks to a combination of obstinate defending, fine goalkeeping and good fortune, managed to keep City at bay.
Shortly after the hour mark, Parkinson replaced Thompson and Wells then showed brilliant skill to outfox a Torquay defender and send in a low cross which was cleared.
Midway through the second half, Atkinson slipped in Wells but the striker's shot was repelled by Poke's legs. Three minutes later the ball again fell to Wells and his low shot was tipped onto a post by Poke.
Substitute Blair Turgott then curled a fine shot wide from distance before Connell was introduced at the expense of Carl McHugh with ten minutes remaining.
Within five minutes he had won City the game.
Wells, typically, created the space inside the left channel and laid the ball into the path of Connell, who showed outstanding technique to fire home a rising, right-footed half-volley from 20 yards.
"It was a nice strike and a great feeling to see it go in," said Connell.
"The gaffer said beforehand that this was a much bigger game than the Arsenal game.
"Will I play on Tuesday? Of course I want to play. But if I don't start then hopefully I can come on and do well.
"We've obviously played more games than any other team and the gaffer keeps emphasising that it is a squad game.
"I've been in promotion-winning squads before and this squad has that same sort of feeling to it."
===========================
BRADFORD CITY DRAWN AWAY TO CREWE IN JPT
By Ross Heppenstall (T&A)
City will travel to Crewe Alexandra in the Northern area semi-final of the
Johnstone's Paint Trophy following today's draw.
The Bantams won at Port Vale earlier this week while the Alex were defeating
Doncaster Rovers on penalties at the Keepmoat Stadium.
The tie will be played at Gresty Road in the week commencing 7th January.
Coventry City host Bury or Preston North End in the other semi-final.
In the Southern section Oxford United face Southend United and Leyton
Orient take on Yeovil Town.
===========================
JPT Win Bonuses
First: £5,000 - Bye
Second: £7,000 - W (pens 3-2) 0-0 v Hartlepool (away)
Area Quarter Final: £10,000 W 2-0 v Port Vale (away)
Area Semi Final: £17,000
Area Final: £25,500
Winners: £40,000 (at Wembley)
===========================
Bantams hearing against FA Cup expulsion set for Wednesday
8:49pm Monday 10th December 2012
By Sports Desk
City's hearing for their appeal against their FA Cup expulsion will take place on Wednesday at Wembley.
The Bantams are hoping to overturn the decision to throw them out of the competition for fielding Curtis Good as an ineligible player.
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew had given City verbal permission to field the on-loan Magpies player against Brentford in the 1-1 draw at Valley Parade but the Bantams failed to obtain written confirmation before the required deadline.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Arsenal game information
Important Arsenal match information
PUBLISHED 06:48 10th December 2012
Bradford City today announced crowd entry arrangements for Tuesday night's Capital One Cup 5th Round tie at the Coral Windows Stadium. The game
against Premiership Arsenal will kick off at 7.45pm and the game is already a sell-out.
With a full-house expected, City have today requested fans to arrive at the stadium as early as possible. With this in mind the stadium will open
at the earlier time of 6.15pm. All available turnstiles will be open to speed up the entry points.
Bradford City FC has put in strenuous efforts, supported by the Police and other agencies, to make sure the game is delivered safely. Please
enjoy the game and act upon any instructions from stewards to ensure that the event is remembered for all the right reasons.
Road closures
Due to the capacity crowd, some road closures have been agreed with the local authority. Therefore Valley Parade, South Parade and Holywell Ash
Lane will be closed to vehicles as well as Burlington Street and Cliffe Terrace. Finally, Midland Road will be closed from its junction with
Thorncliffe Road right through as far Cornwall Road. Manningham Lane and Thorncliffe Road will remain unaffected by the closures but are expected
to be busy. If you are able to park away from the stadium and walk the last mile it will ease problems for all concerned.
These road barriers will also be the first point for ticket checks. Please make sure you have your tickets ready at the first road closure point
and any subsequent check point. Tickets will also be checked at every turnstile with at least one security staff member on duty outside every
turnstile.
Approaches to the stadium
Supporters are asked to make their way directly to the area for which their ticket is valid and use the following streets to get to the stadium:
· - Valley Parade - for the Co-operative Main (West) Stand and TL Dallas (South) Stand only plus banqueting
· - Burlington Street - for the Co-operative Main (West) Stand only plus banqueting
· - Thorncliffe Road - for the Carlsberg Kop (North) Stand plus the Bantams Bar
· - Midland Road - is being used primarily for the visiting supporters and their coaches
M - Midland Road - there will also be limited access to home supporters with tickets for the Carlsberg Kop (North) Stand Upper level (turnstiles
N9-N14) but supporters must approach these turnstiles from the direction of Queen's Road .
Exit arrangements
The Midland Road area will be reserved for the departure of Arsenal fans after the game. Home supporters should use their usual exits from the
stadium and then leave the area via Manningham Lane. Home supporters in the South Stand will be able to use the exit gate onto Midland Road but
will have to leave in the direction of Hamm Strasse. Home supporters in the Carlsberg Kop (North) Stand will be able to leave by the exit gate
onto Midland Road but will have to leave in the direction of Queen's Road.
===========================
The cup comes to Bradford!
PUBLISHED 19:01 10th December 2012
Ahead of City's eagerly-anticipated Capital One Quarter-Final with Premiership giants Arsenal, the Capital One Cup trophy itself made a visit to
the Bantams' training ground.
In front of the national and local media, City boss Phil Parkinson and his players were given the opportunity to get up close with the famous old
trophy before training began this Monday.
The trophy was also present as Parkinson gave his pre-match thoughts to the large number of media agencies gathered at the club's Woodhouse Grove
training complex.
Bantams Player subscribers can now see footage from this Monday when the cup came to Bradford!
===========================
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20633812
Bradford v Arsenal: Can Bantams roll back the years?
By Peter Scrivener BBC Sport
Comments
Capital One Cup
Venue: Valley Parade
Date: Tuesday, 11 December
Kick-off: 19:45 GMT
Bantams v Gunners
Arsenal have not won at Valley Parade for 90 years
The teams have never met in the League Cup
In three FA Cup games, the home side has always won (Bradford once, Arsenal twice)
The away team has failed to score in each of those previous cup games
Bradford beat Arsenal 2-1 at home in their first season in the Premier League
Arsenal won both Premier League games at Highbury 2-0
Bradford penalty kings
6 October 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Notts County (h)
10 November 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Port Vale (h)
30 August 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield Wednesday (a)
4 October 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Huddersfield (a)
8 November 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield United (a)
9 October 2012: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Hartlepool (a)
30 October 2012: Capital One Cup - Wigan (a)
13 November 2012: FA Cup - Northampton (h)
Coverage: Live commentary on BBC Radio 5 live and text commentary on BBC Sport website.
When Arsenal last visited Valley Parade to take on Bradford they arrived at the ground already wearing their kit because the "broom cupboard"
changing rooms were deemed to be not big enough.
However, 12 years ago, when that match took place, the Bantams were not the lowly League Two side that the Gunners will face in Tuesday's Capital
One Cup quarter-final, but a Premier League one, embarking on a second season in the top flight.
City, buoyed by a 2-0 victory over Chelsea in their opening home game of the 2000-01 campaign, earned a 1-1 draw with Arsenal on what Gunners
centre-back Martin Keown remembered as a "frustrating afternoon" for the visitors.
The centre-back told BBC Sport: "The dressing room was inadequate because we had acquired a big staff over the previous few years to cope with
our Champions League ambitions.
"We got changed at the hotel before travelling to the ground on the coach because the the room was like a broom cupboard.
"With the introduction of all the physios and masseuses we had there was just not enough space for everyone and everything."
Bradford had summer signings Benito Carbone, Ashley Ward, Dan Petrescu and record £2.4m signing David Hopkin among their ranks, although it was
club legend Stuart McCall who scored City's opener from the edge of the box in the 10th minute.
Arsenal drew level courtesy of the then 19-year-old Ashley Cole's first goal for the club.
Since that game, the fortunes of the two clubs have taken very different paths.
The Bantams, who were eventually relegated that season, have gone through 15 managers and gone down three times on the back of two spells in
administration while the Gunners have won two Premier League titles and three FA Cups under Arsene Wenger.
Despite Bradford's League Two standing, Keown insists Wenger will not underestimate a City side which won its eighth successive penalty shoot-out
to beat Wigan in the last round.
"Arsene never underestimates the opposition," stated the former England centre-back. "It is almost unthinkable that Arsenal will lose but
Bradford are here on merit and they have home advantage.
"The stadium will be buzzing and they are in a no-lose situation. They should embrace the challenge."
Keown expects Wenger to continue playing the youngsters who have taken Arsenal to the last eight.
However, he added: "This tournament has given a clue in recent years to Arsenal going forward, but having not won a trophy since 2005 there will
be more senior players on the bench than in the last round.
"In an ideal world you would stack the bench with experienced players but hope the youngsters can do it.
"That might provide an opportunity for Bradford but they should not underestimate Arsenal because some of those players have waited a long time
since the last round to play again."
City have never progressed beyond the quarter-final of the League Cup, which they last reached 24 years ago, while Arsenal have won it twice in
1987 and 1993.
Under Wenger, who ranks the competition as fifth in importance behind winning the Premier League, winning the Champions League, qualifying for
the Champions League and winning the FA Cup, the Gunners have finished runners-up twice, in 2007 and 2011.
BBC Sport takes a look at what happened to the teams of 2000:
(see the link)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20633812
===========================
PUBLISHED 06:48 10th December 2012
Bradford City today announced crowd entry arrangements for Tuesday night's Capital One Cup 5th Round tie at the Coral Windows Stadium. The game
against Premiership Arsenal will kick off at 7.45pm and the game is already a sell-out.
With a full-house expected, City have today requested fans to arrive at the stadium as early as possible. With this in mind the stadium will open
at the earlier time of 6.15pm. All available turnstiles will be open to speed up the entry points.
Bradford City FC has put in strenuous efforts, supported by the Police and other agencies, to make sure the game is delivered safely. Please
enjoy the game and act upon any instructions from stewards to ensure that the event is remembered for all the right reasons.
Road closures
Due to the capacity crowd, some road closures have been agreed with the local authority. Therefore Valley Parade, South Parade and Holywell Ash
Lane will be closed to vehicles as well as Burlington Street and Cliffe Terrace. Finally, Midland Road will be closed from its junction with
Thorncliffe Road right through as far Cornwall Road. Manningham Lane and Thorncliffe Road will remain unaffected by the closures but are expected
to be busy. If you are able to park away from the stadium and walk the last mile it will ease problems for all concerned.
These road barriers will also be the first point for ticket checks. Please make sure you have your tickets ready at the first road closure point
and any subsequent check point. Tickets will also be checked at every turnstile with at least one security staff member on duty outside every
turnstile.
Approaches to the stadium
Supporters are asked to make their way directly to the area for which their ticket is valid and use the following streets to get to the stadium:
· - Valley Parade - for the Co-operative Main (West) Stand and TL Dallas (South) Stand only plus banqueting
· - Burlington Street - for the Co-operative Main (West) Stand only plus banqueting
· - Thorncliffe Road - for the Carlsberg Kop (North) Stand plus the Bantams Bar
· - Midland Road - is being used primarily for the visiting supporters and their coaches
M - Midland Road - there will also be limited access to home supporters with tickets for the Carlsberg Kop (North) Stand Upper level (turnstiles
N9-N14) but supporters must approach these turnstiles from the direction of Queen's Road .
Exit arrangements
The Midland Road area will be reserved for the departure of Arsenal fans after the game. Home supporters should use their usual exits from the
stadium and then leave the area via Manningham Lane. Home supporters in the South Stand will be able to use the exit gate onto Midland Road but
will have to leave in the direction of Hamm Strasse. Home supporters in the Carlsberg Kop (North) Stand will be able to leave by the exit gate
onto Midland Road but will have to leave in the direction of Queen's Road.
===========================
The cup comes to Bradford!
PUBLISHED 19:01 10th December 2012
Ahead of City's eagerly-anticipated Capital One Quarter-Final with Premiership giants Arsenal, the Capital One Cup trophy itself made a visit to
the Bantams' training ground.
In front of the national and local media, City boss Phil Parkinson and his players were given the opportunity to get up close with the famous old
trophy before training began this Monday.
The trophy was also present as Parkinson gave his pre-match thoughts to the large number of media agencies gathered at the club's Woodhouse Grove
training complex.
Bantams Player subscribers can now see footage from this Monday when the cup came to Bradford!
===========================
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20633812
Bradford v Arsenal: Can Bantams roll back the years?
By Peter Scrivener BBC Sport
Comments
Capital One Cup
Venue: Valley Parade
Date: Tuesday, 11 December
Kick-off: 19:45 GMT
Bantams v Gunners
Arsenal have not won at Valley Parade for 90 years
The teams have never met in the League Cup
In three FA Cup games, the home side has always won (Bradford once, Arsenal twice)
The away team has failed to score in each of those previous cup games
Bradford beat Arsenal 2-1 at home in their first season in the Premier League
Arsenal won both Premier League games at Highbury 2-0
Bradford penalty kings
6 October 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Notts County (h)
10 November 2009: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Port Vale (h)
30 August 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield Wednesday (a)
4 October 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Huddersfield (a)
8 November 2011: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Sheffield United (a)
9 October 2012: Johnstone's Paint Trophy - Hartlepool (a)
30 October 2012: Capital One Cup - Wigan (a)
13 November 2012: FA Cup - Northampton (h)
Coverage: Live commentary on BBC Radio 5 live and text commentary on BBC Sport website.
When Arsenal last visited Valley Parade to take on Bradford they arrived at the ground already wearing their kit because the "broom cupboard"
changing rooms were deemed to be not big enough.
However, 12 years ago, when that match took place, the Bantams were not the lowly League Two side that the Gunners will face in Tuesday's Capital
One Cup quarter-final, but a Premier League one, embarking on a second season in the top flight.
City, buoyed by a 2-0 victory over Chelsea in their opening home game of the 2000-01 campaign, earned a 1-1 draw with Arsenal on what Gunners
centre-back Martin Keown remembered as a "frustrating afternoon" for the visitors.
The centre-back told BBC Sport: "The dressing room was inadequate because we had acquired a big staff over the previous few years to cope with
our Champions League ambitions.
"We got changed at the hotel before travelling to the ground on the coach because the the room was like a broom cupboard.
"With the introduction of all the physios and masseuses we had there was just not enough space for everyone and everything."
Bradford had summer signings Benito Carbone, Ashley Ward, Dan Petrescu and record £2.4m signing David Hopkin among their ranks, although it was
club legend Stuart McCall who scored City's opener from the edge of the box in the 10th minute.
Arsenal drew level courtesy of the then 19-year-old Ashley Cole's first goal for the club.
Since that game, the fortunes of the two clubs have taken very different paths.
The Bantams, who were eventually relegated that season, have gone through 15 managers and gone down three times on the back of two spells in
administration while the Gunners have won two Premier League titles and three FA Cups under Arsene Wenger.
Despite Bradford's League Two standing, Keown insists Wenger will not underestimate a City side which won its eighth successive penalty shoot-out
to beat Wigan in the last round.
"Arsene never underestimates the opposition," stated the former England centre-back. "It is almost unthinkable that Arsenal will lose but
Bradford are here on merit and they have home advantage.
"The stadium will be buzzing and they are in a no-lose situation. They should embrace the challenge."
Keown expects Wenger to continue playing the youngsters who have taken Arsenal to the last eight.
However, he added: "This tournament has given a clue in recent years to Arsenal going forward, but having not won a trophy since 2005 there will
be more senior players on the bench than in the last round.
"In an ideal world you would stack the bench with experienced players but hope the youngsters can do it.
"That might provide an opportunity for Bradford but they should not underestimate Arsenal because some of those players have waited a long time
since the last round to play again."
City have never progressed beyond the quarter-final of the League Cup, which they last reached 24 years ago, while Arsenal have won it twice in
1987 and 1993.
Under Wenger, who ranks the competition as fifth in importance behind winning the Premier League, winning the Champions League, qualifying for
the Champions League and winning the FA Cup, the Gunners have finished runners-up twice, in 2007 and 2011.
BBC Sport takes a look at what happened to the teams of 2000:
(see the link)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20633812
===========================
Friday, December 07, 2012
FA CUP Expulsion Latest & JPT-QF W2-0 (A) Port Vale Tuesday December 4, 2012. K.O. 7:15PM. #bcafc
JPT-QF W2-0 (A) Port Vale Tuesday December 4, 2012. K.O. 7:15PM. #bcafc
Johnstone's Paint Trophy
Northern Quarter Final
Port Vale (0) 0
Bradford C (0) 2 Jones 46, Forsythe 55.
Att: 2,786
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
====
Breaking News
Official club statement
Bradford City Football Club can confirm that they will be appealing The F.A's decision to expel the club from this season's F.A Cup with Budweiser competition.
This process will take place throughout the forthcoming week.
The club will report any further information to its supporters when applicable.
The club has no further comment to make on this matter at this present time given that is an ongoing issue.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/city-removed-from-f.a-cup-530272.aspx
Official club statement
Bradford City Football Club were charged by The FA of rule 15 (j) (i) on Monday 3 December 2012 in relation to their F.A Cup with Budweiser Second Round encounter with Brentford on Friday 30 November 2012.
The nature of the charge is the playing of one of our loan players deemed ineligible due to the late submission for permission for him to play.
Bradford City Football Club is very sorry to have to report such a matter and apologies to our fans.
The error was of an administrative technical nature and not one to intentionally break competition rules.
We presented a case of mitigation to The FA on Thursday 6 December, however The F.A panel chose to enforce the full powers of its jurisdiction and have removed the club from this season's F.A Cup competition.
We are clearly disappointed by this decision and cannot comment further on this matter as the club is still actively conducting a full investigation. The club has until 5:00pm today (Friday) to lodge an appeal with the F.A, and we are currently reviewing our position in relation to this.
=====
JPT news
City will find out their Johnstone's Paint Trophy Area Semi-Final opponents tomorrow (Saturday 8 December 2012) when the latest draw for the competition takes place.
Having seemingly become a tradition over the years, the draw will once again be broadcast live on Sky Sports' light-hearted football show 'Soccer AM'.
The latest edition of the show will begin at 10:00am on Sky Sports 2 this Saturday morning, with the draw for both the Northern and Southern section Semi-Finals expected roughly half an hour later.
The Area Semi-Finals themselves are scheduled to place on the week commencing the 7th January 2013.
====
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
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
kyel Reid (groin)
Zavon Hines (ankle)
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Port%20Vale
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20506678
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=356982&action=stats&lang=EN
PorV BraC
7(5) Shots (on Goal) 11(6)
5 Fouls 4
13 Corner Kicks 2
1 Offsides 0
45% Time of Poss. 55%
1 Yellow Cards 3
0 Red Cards 0
4 Saves 10
===========================
Final whistle - match report
Next opponent from:
Coventry, Crewe or Bury/Preston.
ESPN
Bradford remain in all three cup competitions after two second-half goals sent them into the Northern Area semi-finals of the Johnstone's Paint
Trophy with a 2-0 victory at Port Vale.
Both sides showed plenty of attacking intent in a lively first half and it was a surprise the opening 45 minutes ended goalless.
But Bradford scored just 47 seconds after the interval when fine play by Garry Thompson set up Ritchie Jones to side-foot a perfect shot low
inside Chris Neal's left-hand post from 16 yards.
Vale fans were incensed in the 53rd minute when Jennison Myrie-Williams was booked for diving after he looked to have been tripped in the penalty
area by Carl McHugh.
And it turned out to be a big call by referee Darren Drysdale as the unmarked Craig Forsyth tucked a 14-yard shot inside Neal's right-hand post
following more excellent work by Thompson just two minutes later.
Vale boss Micky Adams reverted to three at the back and pushed skipper Doug Loft further up the pitch in an attempt to get back into the contest.
But the nearest they came to a consolation was a fierce shot by Myrie-Williams which the impressive Jon McLaughlin safely gathered nine minutes
from time.
----
T&A
Report by Ross Heppenstall (T&A)
City marched a huge step closer towards the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final
after a highly impressive victory against League Two promotion rivals Port
Vale.
After an organised and disciplined goalless first-half display, Phil
Parkinson's men struck twice in nine devastating minutes after the break.
Ritchie Jones rifled home a spectacular 46th-minute opener with a sweet
right-footed strike and on-loan Watford winger Craig Forsyth blasted in a
second soon after.
Both goals were created by the excellent Garry Thompson and left City just
two rounds away from the Wembley final on April 7.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Parkinson sings Bradford City's praises after reaching semi-finals
7:20am Wednesday 5th December 2012
By Ross Heppenstall
Phil Parkinson could barely conceal his delight after City deservedly dumped League Two promotion rivals Port Vale out of the Johnstone's Paint
Trophy.
The understrength Bantams struck twice shortly after the break through Ritchie Jones and Craig Forsyth to avenge Vale's fortuitous win at Valley
Parade in September. It was City's 29th match of a marathon campaign and has left them just two rounds away from a trip to Wembley for the final
on April 7.
Parkinson, whose side remain alive in all four competitions this season, started with key men Nahki Wells, James Hanson, Nathan Doyle, Gary Jones
and Matt Duke on the bench.
Yet Parkinson said: "I thought it was an exceptional performance. We're a squad and I've been saying that all season – everybody has to play
their part.
"I thought Tom Naylor and Curtis Good were outstanding at centre-back.
"They want to learn and they're committed too. On a night like this you have to be."
Striker Garry Thompson made a vital contribution with two clever assists, first laying the ball into the path of Jones to fire home and then
showing intelligence to supply Forsyth for a killer second.
Parkinson added: "I thought he played really well. He made the two goals and I'm pleased for him. He's adding the end product to his game."
It was City's second game of eight in December and Parkin-son added: "Everyone will be needed over the Christmas period.
"Torquay at home is now another massive game for us and we're looking forward to it."
City were lucky to survive a penalty claim in the second half when Jennison Myrie-Williams was hauled to the ground but was instead booked.
Parkinson, who saw Jon McLaughlin mark his return to the side with an outstanding performance, added: "We probably got away with that one
slightly. But cast your mind back to when we played them at home.
"It was a travesty that we didn't get a result that day so it was important we got our rewards tonight.
"When you come to a team above you in the league and win with a performance like that it sends out a message."
===========================
Stattos Corner
The win at Port Vale was the first time City have won a JPT game in normal time since 1st September 2009 when the Bantams won 2-1 at Rochdale.
Since that game City have played 9 games, losing 3 times away at Carlisle (2009), Hartlepool (2010), Oldham (2011) and drawn 6 times, all of
which were won on penalties (Notts County, Port Vale 2009), Sheffield Wed, Huddersfield, Sheffield Utd 2011) and Hartlepool 2012.
The Port Vale win means City will play at least 12 cup games this season and at least 58 games in all competitions. (This to be revised to 11 if the replay appeal against the FA Cup expulsion is turned down).
Johnstone's Paint Trophy
Northern Quarter Final
Port Vale (0) 0
Bradford C (0) 2 Jones 46, Forsythe 55.
Att: 2,786
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
====
Breaking News
Official club statement
Bradford City Football Club can confirm that they will be appealing The F.A's decision to expel the club from this season's F.A Cup with Budweiser competition.
This process will take place throughout the forthcoming week.
The club will report any further information to its supporters when applicable.
The club has no further comment to make on this matter at this present time given that is an ongoing issue.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/city-removed-from-f.a-cup-530272.aspx
Official club statement
Bradford City Football Club were charged by The FA of rule 15 (j) (i) on Monday 3 December 2012 in relation to their F.A Cup with Budweiser Second Round encounter with Brentford on Friday 30 November 2012.
The nature of the charge is the playing of one of our loan players deemed ineligible due to the late submission for permission for him to play.
Bradford City Football Club is very sorry to have to report such a matter and apologies to our fans.
The error was of an administrative technical nature and not one to intentionally break competition rules.
We presented a case of mitigation to The FA on Thursday 6 December, however The F.A panel chose to enforce the full powers of its jurisdiction and have removed the club from this season's F.A Cup competition.
We are clearly disappointed by this decision and cannot comment further on this matter as the club is still actively conducting a full investigation. The club has until 5:00pm today (Friday) to lodge an appeal with the F.A, and we are currently reviewing our position in relation to this.
=====
JPT news
City will find out their Johnstone's Paint Trophy Area Semi-Final opponents tomorrow (Saturday 8 December 2012) when the latest draw for the competition takes place.
Having seemingly become a tradition over the years, the draw will once again be broadcast live on Sky Sports' light-hearted football show 'Soccer AM'.
The latest edition of the show will begin at 10:00am on Sky Sports 2 this Saturday morning, with the draw for both the Northern and Southern section Semi-Finals expected roughly half an hour later.
The Area Semi-Finals themselves are scheduled to place on the week commencing the 7th January 2013.
====
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
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
kyel Reid (groin)
Zavon Hines (ankle)
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Port%20Vale
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20506678
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=356982&action=stats&lang=EN
PorV BraC
7(5) Shots (on Goal) 11(6)
5 Fouls 4
13 Corner Kicks 2
1 Offsides 0
45% Time of Poss. 55%
1 Yellow Cards 3
0 Red Cards 0
4 Saves 10
===========================
Final whistle - match report
Next opponent from:
Coventry, Crewe or Bury/Preston.
ESPN
Bradford remain in all three cup competitions after two second-half goals sent them into the Northern Area semi-finals of the Johnstone's Paint
Trophy with a 2-0 victory at Port Vale.
Both sides showed plenty of attacking intent in a lively first half and it was a surprise the opening 45 minutes ended goalless.
But Bradford scored just 47 seconds after the interval when fine play by Garry Thompson set up Ritchie Jones to side-foot a perfect shot low
inside Chris Neal's left-hand post from 16 yards.
Vale fans were incensed in the 53rd minute when Jennison Myrie-Williams was booked for diving after he looked to have been tripped in the penalty
area by Carl McHugh.
And it turned out to be a big call by referee Darren Drysdale as the unmarked Craig Forsyth tucked a 14-yard shot inside Neal's right-hand post
following more excellent work by Thompson just two minutes later.
Vale boss Micky Adams reverted to three at the back and pushed skipper Doug Loft further up the pitch in an attempt to get back into the contest.
But the nearest they came to a consolation was a fierce shot by Myrie-Williams which the impressive Jon McLaughlin safely gathered nine minutes
from time.
----
T&A
Report by Ross Heppenstall (T&A)
City marched a huge step closer towards the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final
after a highly impressive victory against League Two promotion rivals Port
Vale.
After an organised and disciplined goalless first-half display, Phil
Parkinson's men struck twice in nine devastating minutes after the break.
Ritchie Jones rifled home a spectacular 46th-minute opener with a sweet
right-footed strike and on-loan Watford winger Craig Forsyth blasted in a
second soon after.
Both goals were created by the excellent Garry Thompson and left City just
two rounds away from the Wembley final on April 7.
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Parkinson sings Bradford City's praises after reaching semi-finals
7:20am Wednesday 5th December 2012
By Ross Heppenstall
Phil Parkinson could barely conceal his delight after City deservedly dumped League Two promotion rivals Port Vale out of the Johnstone's Paint
Trophy.
The understrength Bantams struck twice shortly after the break through Ritchie Jones and Craig Forsyth to avenge Vale's fortuitous win at Valley
Parade in September. It was City's 29th match of a marathon campaign and has left them just two rounds away from a trip to Wembley for the final
on April 7.
Parkinson, whose side remain alive in all four competitions this season, started with key men Nahki Wells, James Hanson, Nathan Doyle, Gary Jones
and Matt Duke on the bench.
Yet Parkinson said: "I thought it was an exceptional performance. We're a squad and I've been saying that all season – everybody has to play
their part.
"I thought Tom Naylor and Curtis Good were outstanding at centre-back.
"They want to learn and they're committed too. On a night like this you have to be."
Striker Garry Thompson made a vital contribution with two clever assists, first laying the ball into the path of Jones to fire home and then
showing intelligence to supply Forsyth for a killer second.
Parkinson added: "I thought he played really well. He made the two goals and I'm pleased for him. He's adding the end product to his game."
It was City's second game of eight in December and Parkin-son added: "Everyone will be needed over the Christmas period.
"Torquay at home is now another massive game for us and we're looking forward to it."
City were lucky to survive a penalty claim in the second half when Jennison Myrie-Williams was hauled to the ground but was instead booked.
Parkinson, who saw Jon McLaughlin mark his return to the side with an outstanding performance, added: "We probably got away with that one
slightly. But cast your mind back to when we played them at home.
"It was a travesty that we didn't get a result that day so it was important we got our rewards tonight.
"When you come to a team above you in the league and win with a performance like that it sends out a message."
===========================
Stattos Corner
The win at Port Vale was the first time City have won a JPT game in normal time since 1st September 2009 when the Bantams won 2-1 at Rochdale.
Since that game City have played 9 games, losing 3 times away at Carlisle (2009), Hartlepool (2010), Oldham (2011) and drawn 6 times, all of
which were won on penalties (Notts County, Port Vale 2009), Sheffield Wed, Huddersfield, Sheffield Utd 2011) and Hartlepool 2012.
The Port Vale win means City will play at least 12 cup games this season and at least 58 games in all competitions. (This to be revised to 11 if the replay appeal against the FA Cup expulsion is turned down).
Monday, December 03, 2012
FAC2 D1-1 (H) Brentford Friday November 30, 2012. K.O. 7:45PM. #bcafc
Replay (to be confirmed) December 18th
Third round draw
Bury or Southend v Bradford or Brentford
Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/
CFML Daily News
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/clubhouse?teamId=387&lang=EN
The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/
Official Mobile app
http://communicatoremail.com/IN/Y2tx0dX-0UIRu4P1_588C9Eehl64XmQ-JA8WroOSpEQ/WebView.aspx
===========================
Signings, Loans and Injuries
Injuries
Andrew Davies, knee, Out 4 months (from Nov 1st)
Luke Oliver, Achillies, out for the 2012/13 season
Tom Naylor on loan from Derby County until 12 January
===========================
Match Media & Stats
Head to Head
http://www.11v11.com/teams/bradford-city/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Brentford
http://www.statto.com/football/teams/bradford-city/
Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)
"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
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=357966&action=stats&lang=EN
Bradford City: Duke; Darby, McArdle, Good, Meredith; Turgott, Doyle, Ravenhill (G Jones 61), Thompson (Atkinson 61); Hanson, Connell (Wells 61).
Unused substitutes: McLaughlin, R Jones, McHugh, Baker.
Brentford: Lee; Logan, Craig, Dean, Bidwell; Forshaw, Saunders (Barron 70), Diagouraga, Forrester (Dallas 76); Hayes (German 82), Donaldson.
Unused substitutes: Moore, Redwood, Oyeleke, Pierre.
Referee: G Sutton (Lincoln).
===========================
Final whistle - match report
Road trip if Bradford City win FA Cup replay
6:40am Monday 3rd December 2012
By Simon Parker
City will hit the road in the FA Cup third round if they can overcome Brentford in the replay.
But the Bantams missed out on a potential money-spinner against Premier League opposition after being paired away to either Bury or Southend in
yesterday's draw.
Their game at Gigg Lane on Saturday finished 1-1 – the same score as City's draw with Brentford.
Phil Parkinson reckons his side are capable of beating the League One high-fliers when they meet again at Griffin Park on Tuesday, December 18.
"Brentford probably feel they've done the job and the pressure will be on them massively," he said.
"They are a big club in that division with a big budget and are right up there.
"We can go down and play confidently and I do believe we can give them problems."
===========================
When the dust settled - match report
Bradford City marathon men preserve gr-eight cup record
7:00am Saturday 1st December 2012
By Simon Parker
City 1 Brentford 1
City have played more football than anyone in the country this season – and they will have to squeeze in yet another game after last night's
second-round FA Cup clash with Brentford ended in stalemate.
James Hanson's second goal in successive outings ensured they are still unbeaten in all knock-out competitions.
His close-range strike stretched that impressive run to eight – and cancelled out the League One side's opener from local lad Clayton Donaldson.
City were transformed after a treble change on the hour as Phil Parkinson threw on the cavalry. It was a bold throw of the dice which so nearly
paid off.
But it does mean a replay at Griffin Park on Tuesday, December 18, sandwiched between equally lengthy league trips to Southend and Wycombe.
That is hardly the build-up to Christmas that anyone would have wanted – but the prospect of a third-round FA Cup money-spinner remains.
This was already City's 28th game of a jam-packed campaign – a relentless schedule that has also included four extra-times and three penalty
shoot-outs.
So once again Phil Parkinson gave his pack a bit of a shuffle and handed debuts to loan deadline-day signings Blair Turgott and Curtis Good.
Alan Connell and Ricky Ravenhill were the other changes from the Bristol Rovers draw but those left out were all on the bench as the City chief
kept plenty in reserve.
Turgott got an early chance to cross after Connell forced an error from Jake Bidwell. But Hanson's attempted volley was blocked by Bees skipper
Tony Craig.
Garry Thompson, playing on the left, was bundled over 25 yards from goal but Connell's free-kick floated high into the deserted TL Dallas Stand.
Turgott made a confident start and linked well with Connell, whose effort cannoned off the imposing figure of Toumani Diagouraga.
Matt Duke's only concern in the opening quarter was to carefully tip over a Donaldson cross that went spinning goalwards off Good.
Richard Lee, recalled in Brentford's goal, was equally redundant as there was an absence of any goalmouth action to warm the fans who had braved
the sub-zero temperature.
City were comfortably holding their own against higher-division opponents – something they had demonstrated time and again in their cup exploits
already.
Duke was finally forced into action after 35 minutes, turning away a low drive by Harry Forrester.
Brentford won a gaggle of corners which City saw off. But their resistance was broken two minutes before the break and inevitably it was
Donaldson who made them pay with his 11th goal of the campaign.
Brentford broke from their own half through Adam Forshaw and Paul Hayes. Ravenhill slipped in trying to make a challenge and the ball ricocheted
past Good into the path of the striker.
The Manningham-born frontman, who had snubbed Peter Jackson's advances to sign for the West London club the summer before last, was on to it in a
flash and rifled past Duke into the bottom corner.
Donaldson then angered the Kop with his goal celebration by "shushing" the fans, ensuring a loud jeer when he next chased for possession.
Donaldson had another chance at the start of the second half but headed over from a Sam Saunders corner.
Connell instantly went clear but was pegged back by an offside flag as he accelerated away.
It was threatening to become the Donaldson show and the striker cleverly spun away from James Meredith's clutches to shoot on the turn from
Saunders' pass. But Duke was equal to it, spreading himself well to make an excellent save.
City responded with a corner of their own but Good's shot from the loose ball was a typical centre half's effort and flew over.
It was time to call for the cavalry and Parkinson went for bust in the 61st minute by making all three substitutions.
Top scorer Nahki Wells, Gary Jones and Will Atkinson came on for Connell, Ravenhill and Thompson – the changes bringing an immediate increase in
volume.
The difference was noticeable straight away. Lee just managed to finger away a cross by Atkinson and then stood strong at his near post to beat
out a Wells shot.
Brentford did not have such an assured air about their play and right back Shaleum Logan was the first name in the book for a late challenge on
Atkinson.
And City's growing control was rewarded with an equaliser from Hanson with 20 minutes left.
It owed a lot to Atkinson's good work on the left wing, working the room for Meredith's cross. Brentford made a mess of the clearance as Turgott
tried to reach Hanson's knockdown and the ball dropped for the striker to rifle his second goal in a week from ten yards.
The pattern of the game had changed completely, with City now in the ascendancy.
Jones fired just over and Hanson held off Diagouraga but could not keep his shot down.
Then Duke had to be diligent at the other end with a save from Logan after Meredith had slipped over in the box.
But City thought they had got their noses in front when Hanson's flick on dropped for Wells to poke past Lee.
The ball bounced against the foot of the post and, as the Bermudian was poised to tap home the rebound, Diagouraga appeared with a goal-saving
interception.
Both sides pushed for a decisive late strike to avoid the extra game and City spent the bulk of the four added minutes deep in Brentford
territory.
But the stalemate remained and that's one more Tuesday night taken up on the calendar.
ATTENDANCE: 3,620
===========================
Gunners get in Christmas spirit with Bradford City
4:00pm Friday 30th November 2012 in Sport By Simon Parker, Bradford City Reporter
Arsenal will make a £1,000 donation to the Bradford Burns Unit as part of City's traditional Christmas fund-raising campaign.
The Gunners have agreed to pay for 1,000 Santa hats from the Friends of Bradford City which will be distributed to away fans at Valley Parade
before the Capital One Cup quarter-final on December 11.
===========================
> Here is a message received from Andy McCormack, editor of the Port Vale
> fanzine 'Derek I'm Gutted!!!'
>
> ''Please inform any City supporters travelling to the Paint Pot match on
> December 4th that the Bulls Head is the pub to visit - very away fan
> friendly and my matchday headquarters."
>
> The Bulls Head is in St. John's Square, Burslem, ST6 3AJ (01782-834153).
> '2012 CAMRA West Midlands Region Cider & Perry Pub of the Year.' Sounds
> like they have a good selection of ales.
>
> Sorry I didn't pass this message on sooner.
>
> John Watmough
===========================
Turgott admits Bradford City loan will help him 'man up'
7:40am Monday 3rd December 2012
By Simon Parker
Rising England star Raheem Sterling is backing pal Blair Turgott to come of age at Valley Parade.
Striker Sterling was catapulted into Roy Hodgson's side less than a year after making his Liverpool debut – and he is confident Turgott can
propel his own career during his loan stint with the Bantams.
The 18-year-old West Ham winger made his senior debut in Friday's 1-1 draw with Brentford in the FA Cup and showed plenty of promise.
Turgott, who is seven months older than Sterling, said: "I'm good friends with Raheem and we speak all the time.
"We were on the phone again last week and he was saying how important being on loan will be for me.
"It's always good to play in a first-team environment and gain that experience. It's something good on your CV.
"I'm at a good age now and feel I'm ready to be playing. You see how well Raheem has done. When I get to 19, I want to have some games under my
belt."
Turgott has been with West Ham for ten years and admits he has stepped out of his comfort zone but he believes it is a necessary move.
He said: "It's something you have to do as a footballer. West Ham is all I know but it's not always going to be an easy route.
"Coming up here is a great experience for me and I've got to man up a bit going away from home.
"When I first came, I didn't even know where the local petrol station was. But it's all part of the learning process.
"Staying in a different area and being away from familiar territory are things that are going to help me in life and not just football.
"It's a big, big club which is very attractive and I'm really enjoying the chance to join in."
Phil Parkinson has already tapped into the West Ham wing academy with Kyel Reid and Zavon Hines. Seeing familiar faces at the club has helped
England under-19 international Turgott settle in fast.
"I knew them both from before and was quite good friends with Zavon when he was there," he said.
"It helps to have people you already know around the training ground. But to be fair, everyone has been very friendly and made me welcome.
"There is a real buzz around the place. Right down to the youth team boys, they are all in a good mood.
"But the manager has to keep people's feet on the floor to keep the run going.
"It's completely different to England because you're playing for three points every week, fans are screaming your name or booing you.
"You have to get used to everything that's in the territory of being a footballer. England helps but there's so much more to learn."
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