L2 v Bury (a) L0-1 Jan 27th 2009

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Coca-Cola League Two
Bury (0) 1 Morrell 76
Bradford C (0) 0
Att: 4,112

MORRELL MAGIC SHAKES BANTAMS UP

Bury kept their place in the top three with a 1-0 win over promotion rivals
Bradford City at Gigg Lane in League Two on Tuesday night.

The Shakers were boosted by the news forward Andy Bishop has finally signed
a new three-and-a-half-year deal and strike partner Andy Morrell gave them a
deserved 76th-minute winner.

The hosts enjoyed the better chances in a hard-fought first half with
Bradford goalkeeper Rhys Evans denying Morrell an early opener after
deflecting Elliott Bennett's cross goalwards.

Barry Conlon replaced Peter Thorne up front for Bradford and headed well
wide from a Nicky Law corner before Bury's Mike Jones and Morrell fired off
target just after the half-hour mark, Bishop the provider on both occasions.

Evans had to turn wide a fierce effort from Jones just before the break,
while Paul McClaren blazed over from Bradford's first decent chance. Bury
remained on top after the restart, Morrell heading wide from a Brian
Barry-Murphy cross while Bishop was denied by Evans after being put through
by Bennett.

Bradford replied with Law firing straight at Mark Tyler, although the hosts
were the more adventurous, Morrell this time heading wide from a Jones
centre. But Morrell found the target with time running out, cutting in from
the left before firing inside the near post. Conlon and sub Michael Boulding
went close late on but Bury held out.

Stats: Bury - Bradford C
Possession: 52 - 48%
Shots on target: 7 - 3
Shots off target: 10 - 5
Fouls: 9 - 16
Corners: 7 - 5

Ref: Colin Webster (Tyne & Wear).
Yellow card:
Bury: Buchanan (56 min.)
Bradford C: None.

Bury: 25. Mark Tyler, 2. Paul Scott, 5. Ben Futcher, 6. Ryan Cresswell, 3.
David Buchanan, 23. Elliott Bennett, 7. Stephen Dawson, 11. Brian
Barry-Murphy, 14. Mike Jones, 10. Andy Bishop, 18. Andrew Morrell (86).
Subs: 4. Steven Haslam, 8. Richie Baker, 9. Glynn Hurst (86), 12. Danny
Racchi, 16. Efetobore Sodje.

Bradford C: 1. Rhys Evans, 2. Paul Arnison, 5. Graeme Lee, 12. Matthew
Clarke, 33. Zeshan Rehman, 24. Nicholas Law, 8. Lee Bullock (78), 4. Paul
McLaren, 7. Omar Daley (79), 9. Barry Conlon, 25. Steve Jones (70).
Subs: 10. Peter Thorne, 15. Joe Colbeck (70), 16. Simon Ainge, 14. Michael
Boulding (79), 23. Dean Furman (78).

Next match: (H) Grimsby Town. Saturday January 31, 2009. K.O. 3:00PM.

Last season: Grimsby 1-1 Bradford C; Bradford C 2-1 Grimsby.
This season: Grimsby 1-3 Bradford C.

Next match: (H) Darlington. Monday February 2nd, 2009. K.O. 7:45PM.
(live on Sky Sports)


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http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/bradford/Bury-1-Bradford-City-0.4919952.jp

Bury 1 Bradford City 0: City slip further off the pace


Bradford lose late on


Bradford City slipped out of the play-off places after going down to a late defeat at Gigg Lane.


The Bantams have struggled to convert draws into wins recently and their lack of a cutting edge showed again, creating precious little before Andy Morrell grabbed a deserved 76th-minute winner.

Zesh Rehman came into the side after signing on loan from QPR, while Lee Bullock and Barry Conlon also came in, with Luke O'Brien, Dean Furman and Peter Thorne making way.

Bury were the better side throughout, though, and Bradford goalkeeper Rhys Evans had to be alert to deny Morrell an early opener.

Conlon then headed well wide from Nicky Law's corner, before the two sides became locked in a battle for midfield supremacy. Neither managed to forge an opening until Bury winger Mike Jones dragged a shot wide on the half-hour mark.

Bishop then picked out Morrell with a searching cross-field ball, only for Morrell to volley over from a tight angle, before Conlon sent an attempted lob well over.

Evans had to turn wide a fierce effort from Mike Jones and Morrell headed wide shortly after the restart, while Bishop was denied by Evans after being put through by Bennett.

The Bantams replied with Law firing straight at goalkeeper Mark Tyler after some uncertainty in the Bury defence.

Morrell then headed wide from Mike Jones's centre but he found the target with time runnng out, Graeme Lee standing off and allowing Morrell to fire past Evans at his near post.

Bury: Tyler; Scott, Cresswell, Futcher, Buchanan; Bennett, Dawson, Barry-Murphy, Jones; Bishop, Morrell (Hurst). Subs: Baker, Haslam, Rachhi, Sodje.

Bradford City: Evans; Arnison, Clarke, Lee, Rehman; Daley (Boulding 79), McClaren, Bullock (Furman 78), Law; Conlon, Steve Jones (Joe Colbeck 70). Subs: Simon Ainge, Peter Thorne.

Referee: C Webster (Tyne & Wear).



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http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sportbcfc/sportbcfcmatch/4080742.Lacklustre_City_punished_by_play_off_rivals/

Lacklustre City punished by play-off rivals
7:10am Wednesday 28th January 2009

Bury 1 City 0

City slipped out of the play-off places after a poor display at promotion rivals Bury.

It was a costly way to start a crucial five-game period, including four against fellow promotion fighters, which could have a big say in their hopes of going up.

On this evidence, there is work to be done.

Bury, who are now four points above them, weren't brilliant but they had the better chances and always looked much more likely to score.

For City, that was not the case.

After the euphoria of Saturday's breathless fightback at Kenilworth Road, they were sent crashing back to earth in the Gigg Lane rain.

With two home games coming straight up, City need a big response.

With Luke O'Brien calling off ill at lunchtime, on-loan defender Zesh Rehman was pressed straight into action as a makeshift left back.

Straight away, tricky winger Elliott Bennett cut back from his challenge and drilled in an awkward low cross that Rhys Evans just managed to dig out after a touch off Andy Morrell.

Given the high stakes, it was hardly surprising that the game set off at a frantic pace and Graeme Lee had to be alert to nod away another Bennett cross as Andy Bishop lurked menacingly.

Barry Conlon, Saturday's last-gasp hero, had a great chance to head City in front after eight minutes from the opening corner. The Irishman was unmarked but could not hit the target from ten yards out – it was a big miss and he knew it.

The City fans were again out in force – 1,800 out of a 4,110 crowd – and created a wall of noise behind Evans' goal. There were also a few derogatory songs about Bishop, the much-coveted Bury striker that City had been linked with.

Bishop responded with a long-range free-kick but it flew straight into Evans.

The game had settled down after the helter-skelter opening but Morrell forced Matt Clarke into coughing up a cheap corner as he tried to shepherd the ball out. Evans, though, cut out the danger with a confident take at the back post.

Rehman, despite playing on his wrong side, had settled well and looked strong and composed for his first start of the season.

Both keepers had been largely untroubled in the first half hour and when Bishop flicked down to set up Mike Jones, the winger thrashed his shot wide.

Bishop then tried an angled ball over the City centre halves to pick out Morrell for an ambitious volley high into the away end.

Omar Daley had not managed to get into the game, finding himself shackled by at least two white shirts every time the ball came his way. Bury had also switched their wingers over to put the quicker Bennett on him.

Conlon attempted a first-time lob from near the touchline but it was never coming down enough to worry home keeper Mark Tyler.

At the other end, Evans was called into serious action at last as David Buchanan neatly found Morrell in the box. He struck the shot cleanly but Evans confidently pushed it behind.

Bury broke through Morrell and Bennett fired a terrific cross into the danger area. Luckily for City, Lee was there in the middle of the scramble to calmly clear away.

The play was opening up and Daley suddenly pressed on the accelerator to scoot past Buchanan and power towards the byline. The Jamaican pulled the ball back to Paul McLaren, who was unable to keep his effort down from the edge of the Bury box.

It was patchy stuff and nowhere near the thrills and spills of Kenilworth Road but there was nothing to choose between the sides. Both knew it was there to be won in the second half.

Daley and Nicky Law swapped wings when the action resumed and the visitors tried to introduce a bit of snap into their play.

City looked more positive but Bury had the first chance of the half as Buchanan's deep cross picked out Morrell for a header over the bar.

And the Shakers should have been in front after 51 minutes as Bennett raced away on the counter-attack with City caught upfield. He drew Rehman inside before slipping a pass to the unmarked Bishop on his right.

The striker looked odds on to score but his shot was at a good height for Evans, who turned it away superbly.

His opposite number Tyler was then caught out in an aerial challenge with Conlon but Law could not connect cleanly enough with the volley as the ball fell loose.

Referee Colin Webster had kept a calm hand on matters, a welcome change after the weekend histrionics from Trevor Kettle. But the Tyne & Wear official had to brandish a yellow card when Jones was upended late by the sliding Buchanan.

The away volume rose again, sensing the tide was turning in City's favour. It almost did as a long free-kick from Bullock just ran away from Conlon as it dropped invitingly in the goalmouth.

Daley was punished for high-kicking to give Bury a free-kick five yards outside the corner of the box. Skipper Paul Scott fired it over the wall but Evans clutched comfortably, as he had done all game.

Daley was more embarrassed when he tried a trademark effort after cutting inside – only to catch the ball with his standing foot and miss the shot completely.

McCall made his first change after 69 minutes, bringing on Joe Colbeck for Jones. The substitute headed for the right wing with Daley pushed up front. Bury, though, issued another warning as Jones delivered a wickedly bending cross which beat the head of Lee. Morrell was right behind him and guided the ball no more than a foot wide of the post.

City did not heed the message – and fell behind with 15 minutes left.

Bennett, the best player on the pitch, was the architect with another driving run through the middle. He found Morrell on the edge of the box and his finish was clinical, firing past Evans at the near post.

City were once again chasing a game and responded by making their final two changes, Dean Furman and Michael Boulding coming on for Bullock and Daley.

Bury were bubbling and even their supporters finally came to life. With City committed to pushing men forward, they sensed more joy on the break as gaps appeared.

Morrell was denied by a strong sliding block from Clarke. The striker picked up a knock in the process and limped off to be replaced but he had got the job done.

City were throwing everyone forward in a frantic hunt for an equaliser. Furman's cross was headed towards goal by Colbeck but it struck Conlon, who was unable to get out the way.

As stoppage time began, Boulding and Conlon opened Bury with a lovely one-two but Tyler beat the sub's shot away.

City pressed again and thought they had equalised in a late scramble. Lee's flick-on down the middle seemed to fall perfectly for either striker to pull the trigger.

Cresswell got in a crucial challenge but the ball ran loose invitingly to Colbeck. The Bury goal beckoned but he snatched at the shot and it deflected against the offside Boulding.

But City would not have warranted a point. Bury, worryingly, wanted it more.




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http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sportbcfc/sportbcfcheadlines/4080745.McCall_fumes_over_lack_of_desire/

McCall fumes over lack of desire
7:10am Wednesday 28th January 2009

Angry Stuart McCall accused City of "not wanting it enough" after losing promotion ground at Bury last night.

The Bantams were sunk by Andy Morrell's second-half goal to drop out of the League Two play-off zone.

And McCall rounded on his players for lacking the appetite for battle against a rival who are now four points above them.

He blasted: "It was unacceptable. Bury were hungrier, wanted it more and were first to the ball all over the park.

"It just wasn't good enough full stop. We came up against a team who had more desire and I hope I don't have to say that again this season.

"You can play poorly, make wrong decisions and miss chances but I'm not accepting being second best and that's what we were."

City were backed by more than 1,800 away fans who watched a performance short of ideas and inspiration. The defeat leaves McCall's men with only one win from their last ten games.

He added: "We've let a lot of people down and I hate doing that. We've got to be better – and we will be better.

"We've got good players in the team but when you come up against strength and desire, you need that little bit more. I picked a strong, physical team because I knew what to expect from Bury.

"But in the first half a lot of our players didn't show the desire needed. It was a bit more even in the second half but there are no excuses. After the comeback on Saturday, we could only bring confidence into the game. But we got what we deserved – nothing."

On-loan QPR defender Zesh Rehman made his debut at left back for virus victim Luke O'Brien and was spared his manager's criticism.

McCall said: "That was not his natural position but I thought Zesh was one of the better players for us.

"But there were too many who didn't turn up. Going forward we weren't good enough and lost too many battles.

"I'm hurt by it and we've got two home games coming up now to put it right. The team that go out against Grimsby on Saturday will be left in no doubt what is required.

"We have to show character now to make amends. The team will know exactly what's expected of them."




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http://www.buryfc.co.uk/page/MatchAction/0,,10422~1536409,00.html

Lots of match photos


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http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sportbcfc/sportbcfcheadlines/4084000.Lawn__It_s_May_when_it_counts/

Lawn: It's May when it counts
6:50am Thursday 29th January 2009

Mark Lawn today urged fans not to panic after seeing City drop out of the play-off picture.

Tuesday's dismal defeat at Bury dropped the Bantams into ninth spot – their lowest position of the season.

Stuart McCall's men have won only once in the league since the end of November, picking up nine points from a possible 27.

McCall is demanding an immediate response from his side this weekend when they face crucial home clashes with Grimsby and promotion rivals Darlington.

Joint-chairman Lawn appreciates the fears of the fans but said: "It's not May 2 yet. That's when it counts.

"It is concerning and everybody is bound to be worried. I can quite understand that.

"But we've got the squad capable of doing it. All we've got to find is the right mixture.

"I'm sure we will make serious inroads into the teams above us, starting against Grimsby on Saturday."

City took more than 1,800 supporters to Gigg Lane and Lawn paid tribute to their backing.

He said: "I have to say that our fans were amazing and the Bury chairman couldn't believe it as well. They've never seen that number of away supporters at their ground for a midweek game.

"It was a pity the performance let them down but now we've got to get that out of our system. Let's do what the Man Uniteds of the world always do at this time of the season and turn up the pressure."

Fwd: L2 v Luton (a) D3-3 Jan 24th 2009

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Coca-Cola League Two
Luton Town (2) 3 Hall 4, 90, Wasiu 37
Bradford C (0) 3 McLaren 47, Furman 57, Conlon pen 90+.

Luton: Logan, Asafu-Adjaye, Spillane, Roper, Davis, Hall, Gallen (Nicholls 71), Jarvis, Martin, Wasiu (Parkin 75),

Henderson (Howells 90).
Subs Not Used: Brill, Gnakpa.
Sent Off: Martin (90).

Booked: Roper, Spillane, Nicholls, Parkin.



Bradford: Evans, Arnison, Clarke, Lee, O'Brien, Law , McLaren, Furman (Bullock 77), Daley (Colbeck 85), Thorne

(Conlon 74), Jones.
Subs Not Used: Bower, Michael Boulding.
Booked: Law , Arnison, Thorne.


Att: 6,053

Ref: Trevor Kettle (Rutland).


Game Statistics
Hatters / Bantams
7 Goal Attempts 15
5 On Target 6
3 Corners 6
18 Fouls 14
4 Yellow Cards 3
1 Red Cards 0
47 % 53

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On the following link there's an interesting 6minute post match
interview with Stu.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/7849367.stm



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http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/yorkshire-soccer/McCall-pleased-with-City-spirit.4911589.jp

McCall pleased with City spirit

Luton Town 3
Bradford City 3
Bantams manager Stuart McCall was left with mixed emotions after seeing his side grab a late equaliser from the penalty spot in a thrilling match against bottom club Luton Town.
McCall, who was sent to the stands after the Hatters' second goal by referee Trevor Kettle, said he was proud of the way his side had stuck to their task at Kenilworth Road.

"I'm really proud of them because they stuck together and it would have been a travesty if we lost the game after creating about 24 chances on goal.

"The negatives are that we conceded three goals from set pieces.

"But the positives are the way we responded and the number of chances on goal that we created."

Referring to his dismissal, the City boss added: "Luke O'Brien's tackle was never a foul in the run up to the goal, but I was sent off for encroaching on to the pitch not for arguing – it was ridiculous."

Trailing 2-0 at the break to goals by Town's Asa Hall and Sunday Waisu, Bradford regrouped in the second period and pulled one back within a minute of the restart when Steve Jones' corner was tucked home by Paul McLaren from close range. And City were level on 57 minutes, as Jones and Nicky Law combined to set up Dean Furman, who arrowed in a superb left-footed effort.

But when Luton's Hall headed home his second from former Leeds United skipper Kevin Nicholls' free-kick in the 90th minute, it looked like all City's hard work would come to nothing.

But Jones was tripped in the Town box in the sixth-minute of stoppage time and substitute Barry Conlon kept his cool to convert the spot-kick, with Luton's Chris Martin dismissed for disputing the decision.



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http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sportbcfc/sportbcfcmatch/4074540.Penalty_point_is_least_City_deserve/

Penalty point is least City deserve
7:20am Monday 26th January 2009

Luton 3 City 3

Some points are bigger than others, even for the current League Two draw specialists.

And if City do finish the season in a promotion spot, they will recall this one as the giant of the lot.

Good teams are not judged on when they are playing well but how they react to adversity. The true test of character and determination is how you respond when the chips are down.

On the face of it, a draw away to the bottom side – albeit a team in a totally artificial position – is hardly cause for celebration. Even given Luton's decent record against the top sides, City would have been eyeing a much-needed win before the game rather than a fifth draw in six.

But given what was thrown at them – as much by the officials as the opposition – this result should not be underestimated.

Stuart McCall's squad may have its faults but a lack of bottle is not one of them. Anyone who witnessed their second-half display at Kenilworth Road will testify to that.

For the first 45 minutes, their world was caving in. Two down to two soft goals and a manager consigned to the stand; well, an empty hospitality box 11 anyway.

The recently impervious defence had been breached by two set-pieces; one to an unmarked header, the next from an uncharacteristic rush of blood by Rhys Evans.

It was bad enough to concede in the first five minutes for the second week running. Paul Arnison gave away a sloppy corner and nobody picked up Asa Hall as he glanced home.

Then City's afternoon got a lot worse. Within minutes of Matt Clarke missing an identical chance to the one Hall had buried, Luton were breaking menacingly. As the last line of defence, Luke O'Brien had it all to do to halt Ian Henderson at full pelt. He did so with a well-judged slide tackle.

Assistant referee Mike George was right on top of the incident – and flagged for a foul. O'Brien was booked and McCall, in his fury, came on to the pitch to demand words with whistle-blower Trevor Kettle.

McCall was promptly banished from the dug-out and while he was clambering over the wall to find a new home, Sunday Waisu seized on Evans' indecision to turn home Rossi Jarvis' set-piece.

The Luton crowd went wild and the unprintable songs about the 30-point deduction boomed out. "You might as well go home" they taunted the stunned City fans.

Some of those travelling fans would have been there on City's last visit in October 2004 – a 4-0 thrashing accompanied by the farcical refereeing of Joe Ross. This was turning into deja vu.

Peter Thorne, playing in a rejigged frontline alongside Steve Jones, was a foot wide with a flick from his partner's cross but City were staring down the barrel at the break.

At least McCall was allowed into the dressing room at half-time to lay down the law. It was probably as big a speech as he has given all season.

He went round the room to talk individually to every player, reminding them of the comebacks against Accrington and Chesterfield. It could still be done.

McCall wanted to see that belief in their eyes.

He said: "It's easy to go in and say the right things like 'let's have a go' and that but I told them that words are cheap and you will be judged by your actions.

"They had to believe in each other and believe that we could come back. And I'm so proud of them for doing that.

"To come back from 2-0 down and then again in the last minute shows tremendous character. In terms of what this could do for the squad, this result could be a big turning point of the season."

City's recovery got the perfect spark within 90 seconds of the restart as Paul McLaren punished his first club from Clarke's powerful header.

And unlike Accrington the game before, the fight back did not end there. With confidence surging, City were a side transformed from the downtrodden bunch just before the break.

Conrad Logan nervously pushed away a 35-yard belter from Graeme Lee, only to be beaten again before the hour mark.

Dean Furman, getting only his second start in three months, took Nicky Law's pass and shifted it from right to left foot before smacking the bottom corner of the Luton net.

But City weren't content with a point and continued to roar forward for fun.

Law, playing wide on the left, was instrumental in most things; Omar Daley, a bit-part figure for the first 45 minutes, suddenly switched into overdrive.

One electrifying burst saw the Jamaican nick possession near his own six-yard area and race from one box to the other. If the finish had matched the run, the goal of the season contest would have been done and dusted.

Chances came thick and fast; none better than the free header for substitute Barry Conlon which he somehow planted wide.

But a third goal wouldn't come and you feared a sting in the tail a minute into the four added on when Clarke upended Sam Parkin to the right of the penalty area.

City thought Kevin Nicholls had overhit the free-kick but Hall came powering in beyond the far post to crash in his second of the game.

Surely it was the killer blow for City's comeback. But as the time ticked on, Arnison pumped one last desperate ball towards the box. Conlon won the flick-on and Jones had his legs taken by Chris Martin amid a bundle of bodies.

Kettle whistled City's way for seemingly the first occasion all afternoon. Mayhem ensued as players jostled around the box and Martin was red-carded.

It took over four minutes for order to be restored. Then Conlon, the coolest head in the house, sent Logan the wrong way and rolled home the equaliser as if it was a pre-season tap-in.

The lone figure in hospitality box 11 punched the air. The locals wanted to punch the referee.

His final whistle signalled scenes of chaos, with Luton still arguing bitterly that it was not a penalty.

Objects were thrown at Kettle as he dived for the players' tunnel and livid home skipper Nicholls had to be restrained by police.

But both sides at least found common ground on one thing – the performance of the referee.

Not surprisingly, Luton boss Mick Harford was particularly scathing against an official he has history with.

Harford blasted: "He was despicable and I'm not bothered if they charge me because it's the truth.

"I know that referee well. When I was Rotherham manager, he sent off three of my players at Barnsley as well as me, they scored with the last kick when the ball never crossed the line and two weeks later I got the sack.

"I feel sorry for the 6,000 people who've paid money to see an incompetent referee. I'm just voicing their opinions."

Let's hope that come May, City might have different reasons to look back on this eventful barny in Bedfordshire.



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http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sportbcfc/sportbcfcheadlines/4074649.Conlon__Luton_dirty_tricks_didn_t_faze_me/

Conlon: Luton dirty tricks didn't faze me
7:30am Monday 26th January 2009

Ice-cool Barry Conlon admitted his last-gasp leveller at Luton was the biggest penalty of his career.

And the Irishman revealed how he refused to fall for the home side's mind games as a dramatic clash descended into mayhem.

Conlon's spot-on finish earned City a 3-3 draw in a pulsating contest that also saw Stuart McCall sent to the stand by controversial official Trevor Kettle.

The penalty, awarded when Chris Martin tripped Steve Jones, capped another tense fightback. City had trailed 2-0 at the interval and then fell behind again in stoppage time.

Conlon had to wait over four minutes to take it while players from both sides had to be pulled apart and Martin was sent off.

He said: "There was chaos going on all round the edge of the box but I daren't get involved. It would have been easy to help the other lads but that would have distracted me.

"I had to keep an eye on the Luton keeper, who was trying to put me off. I could see him putting divots on the penalty spot and rubbing mud on the ball.

"He kept asking me where I was going to put the kick but I didn't get mixed up with the mind games. I knew it was do or die and I'm pretty pleased with myself for putting the penalty away.

"We deserved at least a point and there was a real sense of achievement afterwards. We can go to Bury tomorrow on a positive note now."

Luton accused Jones, who was playing as a striker, of diving but he said: "I went to strike the ball and someone took my legs away. It was a definite penalty.

"But the ref didn't have the best of games so I was still very surprised he gave it."

McCall was dismissed for encroaching on the pitch to protest about a foul given against Luke O'Brien that led to Luton's second goal.

The City boss, who watched the rest of the match from an empty hospitality box, admitted: "I might not have learned how to shoot, pass or head as a player but one thing I could do was tackle and that's the best one made this season.

"Slide tackling is a dying art and anyone who has played the game could see that it was a beautiful challenge.

"I've never been as high then as low and as high again in 90 minutes of life. But I'm so proud of my players for coming back like that."

Skipper Graeme Lee felt that McCall's departure provided an extra spur for City to hit back.

He said: "The gaffer is as passionate as the players and we felt everything was going against us.

"He was still lifting us at half-time and it shows we've got the strong characters to bring things back. We're all in it together and the belief is there.

"I thought it was brilliant how Baz kept calm for the penalty. He was lining it up while everyone was having a tussle behind him."





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http://www.bedfordtoday.co.uk/luton-sport/Hall-admits-to-rollercoaster-ride.4912715.jp


Hall admits to rollercoaster ride of emotions

By Mark Wood

Asa's double is marred by penalty decision

Hero and villain Asa Hall believes there is no way the Hatters should have been robbed of victory on Saturday by a Bradford City penalty in the 96th minute.

Hall, 22, had looked to have given Hatters victory with a sensational injury time header, only to be penalised for a bizarre penalty seconds later by referee Trevor Kettle, as tempers reached boiling point at Kenilworth in stoppage time.

Town had led 2-0 at the break through goals from Hall and home debutant Sunday Waisu, but the Bantams staged a terrific second-half fightback to claim a draw, in a game that was fantic and chaotic from start to finish.

And Hall admitted the rollercoaster ride of emotions he and his team-mates had endured was difficult to take.

He said: "To have gone up again in the 90th minute and have it taken away is devastating really.

"To go from the elation of scoring and the noise in the ground and for the ref to do something like that is unbelievable."

And he was adament it was never a penalty, despite believing that he was the man to have been penalised by Kettle.

Asked whether it was a penalty, he said: "No chance.

"There were quite a few bodies in there really and the lad's gone down.

"I think the officials were poor today. We do think the officials aren't getting it right and decisions change games.

"We are feeling the pressure every week, but we are doing our hardest for the supporters."

But he did admit that Chris Martin was right to be sent off, if he did raise his hands in the ensuing melee that also saw Michael Spillane and Kevin Nicholls booked, while no Bradford City player was shown a card.
He said: "If he has put his hands up to his face then he does have to go and it was bit heated in the tunnel."

And while Hall admitted that he though Nicholls was going to go for goal when Town were awarded a later free-kick, he revealed he will always gamble on the opportunity to get a goal and admitted he has also targeted Martin's spot as the club's top scorer as he now stands on six goals in all competitions for the season.

He added: "I always gamble in case he doesn't shoot.

"It's my first in the league double which is nice. I would love to be top scorer, but I don't to tell Chris Martin that."

Manager Mick Harford was also full of praise for the dangerous midfielder, adding: "Asa pops up and scores goals from all over the place. His main strength is popping up in danger areas and getting on the end of things."



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BCFC fans view


Posted by: "Steve Whittaker"  melton.bantam@dsl.pipex.com     melton_bantam
Sat Jan 24, 2009 1:06 pm (PST)
What a day. Arrived in plenty of time to find Luton has bu**er all car parking. Apparently they have had 3 city centre car parks condemned. Cue lots of driving around trying to find a place. Sainsburys used to be a pay & park but these days you get 2 hours then a £70 fiine, all done by cameras. Hope no City fans got caught out by this. Finally managed to get parked and made it into the ground with 5 mins to spare.

Ground is a real throwback to the dark ages. Entry was gained underneath the upstairs bedrooms of the terraced housing that surrounds the ground.Inside it looks like it hasn't had anything done to it since Millwall fans wrecked it years ago. The stand is on par with Grimsby's with emphersis very much on the Grim. Cost £22 to get in and £3 for a pie which for second division is taking the P. Having said that Luton are running a plus points promotion with a season ticket for their 11 remaining home games costing an adult £180 !!!!! Don't anyone ever complain about City's prices.

Game started and once again we didn't seem to be at the races for most of the first half. Steve Jones could and should have done better after a couple of minutes Luton then took the lead after arond 5 minutes from a corner when yet again City showed their fraility in being unable to defend from corners and free kicks and the Luton player put a good glancing header in the back of the net under minimal pressure from any city player. City had their chances, a 30 yard blast over the bar from Graeme Lee and a little later Matt Clarke headed high over the bar when he had a free header. Then around 35 minutes Town broke from their area and just inside the city half Luke O'Brien made a tackle and won the ball. There was no reaction from any Luton player but for some inexplicable reason the linesman on the dugout side stuck his flag up for a foul. Cue the ref blowing and boking OB. Cue another cross into Citys area, cue laughable defending and an unmarked luton player stuck the ball past evens 2-0 Luton. Stuart went ballastic and was sent off the pitch. Instead of walking around to the stands Stuart turned and climbed the wall and plonked himself in one of the empty executive boxes that occupy that side of the Luton pitch. Luton could have gone even further ahead but their player luckily headed over. Just before half time in time added on city were awarded a free kick and Nicky Law tried a quick one only to get booked by the ref for his troubles.

Second half and almost immediatley City pulled one back Nicky Laws corner was headed across goal by Clarke and McLaren bundled over from a yard .City looked a different team Daley was playing as we want him to do. Gareme Lee saw his 25 yard free kick beaten by the Luton keeper. City equalised when after some clever play by Nicky Law who once again was excellent laid the ball back in the area and Dean Furman placed an excellent shot into the right hand corner of the net. 2-2 and we could hardly beleive it. With City in the ascendency we I really beleived we could go on and win this one. Yet more chances came City's way Daley, Jones and Conlon who had come on for Thorne all had chances to score. Barry perhaps hving the best chnace but it looked like the defender just managed to egt a bit on Barry and put him off.

With the game into extra time and nearly over, Matt Clarke brought down a Luton player on the edge of the box. Cue a cross over and cue yet again a goal scored against us from a free kick/corner. Good header but woeful defending. Just what do we do on the training ground? Joyous scenes from the Luton fans who thought they had sneaked all 3 points.

But this game had another twist and in the 3rd minute of added time off down the other end with the ball went City. Jones went over in the box and City had a penalty. The furious Luton players surrounded the ref and some further argy bargy occured with some of the City players but I didn't notice what sparked it off. The linesman came onto the pitch and we ended up with 3 Luton players being booked and one being sent off. All this took up a good 5 minutes and the longer it went on the more I feared for the result but credit to Barry Conlon as he cooly slotted past the luton keeper to send the City fans into rapture. Just time for the restart before the ref blew to end this rollercoaster.

Not said much about the ref today as I am mindful this is a family group but he has to be the most incompetant pi77ock I have seen in charge of a game for many a year. He was absoloutley awful for both sides with more bias towards the Luton but at the end of the day both sets of fan were baying for his blood. It was just comical to hear a Luton fan moaning they would have won if we hadn't bought the ref as I walked back to my motor. Listening to the local radio on the way home Mick Hartford the Luton manager was insensed by the refs performance and he also said that OB's free kick should never have been given.

So yet again we fail to capitalise on those around us losing and down the table we drop. We really need to egt something from Bury and sort out our home form. I miss the next 3 games through work & play. I will be dialled in to the internet in Austria and hpe I return with City once again in th eascendancy.

Regards

Steve

The Melton Bantam


Posted by: "Adam Cooper"  coops1279@yahoo.co.uk     coops1279
Sat Jan 24, 2009 3:18 pm (PST)
Attended the game myself and there was even more action after the final whistle.

The Luton players were still furious at the decision and the referee and continued to argue with him but slowly the players left the pitch leaving the officials in the middle waiting to return to the dressing room.

The Luton fans were waiting to give them an earful and the stewards pulled out the extendable tunnel for their safety but this didn't stop all manner of things being thrown in their direction and the police shielding them into the tunnel which was being rocked by the Luton fans.

The Luton captain, Kevin Nicholls, was actually still on the pitch behind the officials having clapped the fans etc.

I'm not sure what caused it - whether he was unhappy with the fans reaction to the ref, or whether someone had said something to him - but he suddenly tried to start fighting with some fans near the tunnel and had to be held back.

He kept going though and it took four coppers to get him down the tunnel and even then it took some effort.

It was all very bizarre and there were plenty of police and blue lights after the game although I didn'tsee any trouble - perhaps it was all to get the ref safely away from the ground!

Adam


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Posted by: "MIKE HARRISON"  Miketallgent@btinternet.com    
Fri Jan 23, 2009 8:31 am (PST)
All
 
If I can further pick up on the recent goodwill shown towards City Gent and myself, I have just received an email informaing me about the Football Fans Census/New Football Pools Fanzine Awards for 2009.
 
I'm pleased to see that the good people at Football Fans Census have changed the categories and there are now seperate awards for print and online fanzines. In the print category there is just one award for the best fanzine in the football league and I'd like to think that City Gent will have a good chance of winning. But, I'm not complacent and as last season I need to encourage City fans must log on to vote for both City Gent but also for Boy From Brazil in the online category
 
http://www.footballfanzineawards.com/index.php
 
Also, if more City fans register on the Football Fans Census, City should rise up the league table that they have for fans registered to the site.
 
http://www.footballfanscensus.com/fan_league.html?survey_id=total
 
City currently lie in mid table of division one with 1.1% of the total fans registered. If we can encourage more City fans to register, we could easily get City promoted into the Premier League! I wonder how many fans equtes to 0.2%? We'd need an extra 0.7% to leapfrog L**ds. 
 
Typically, voting ends on Feb 6th and this has happened again in between issues of City Gent, so I'm going to have to start making some leaflets! And try and get another article into the T&A!
 
Mike Harrison
Editor - The City Gent

Rochdale report (Aug 23rd)

New format for the CFML reports

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfrgxxf3_683q9rhpgf

News May 20 2008

********* FIXTURES OUT MONDAY JUNE 16TH www.football-league.co.uk The season will kick-off on Saturday 9th August 2008.
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Pre season friendlies (as of May 16)

Wed 16th July - Harrogate Town - Away Sat 19th July - Bradford Park Avenue - Away Mon 21st July - Guiseley - Away Tues - 29th July - Altrincham - Away Wed 30th July - Burnley- Home Sat 2nd August - Oldham Athletic - Home

 

Jim Brown, Jon Pepper and now it's Steve Redmond! Fri May 16, 2008 5:26 am (PDT) City will also be looking for a new physio as Steve Redmond, who has done the job for the last 13 years, has been told his contract will not be renewed at the end of the month. Pre season friendlies Fri May 16, 2008 6:58 am (PDT) I think a couple of these have just been announced and also there's been a couple of date changes. Wed 16th July - Harrogate Town - Away Sat 19th July - Bradford Park Avenue - Away Mon 21st July - Guiseley - Away Tues - 29th July - Altrincham - Away Wed 30th July - Burnley- Home Sat 2nd August - Oldham Athletic - Home Todd: I could have saved City from relegation Editors note: blah blah blah ... I include the following as rumours abound that Jim Brown left the Club because of his involvmenet in this autobiography. Sun May 18, 2008 11:35 pm (PDT) Colin Todd admits it is a "crying shame" to see City playing in the bottom division. Todd, now in charge of Randers FC in Denmark, was sacked in February last year - three months before the Bantams were relegated to League Two. In his new autobiography Toddy', the former boss revealed he had probably taken the club as far as he could. But Todd still maintains he would have pulled the team out of the tail-spin which eventually sent them tumbling into the league basement. Todd said: "When I was dismissed we were not in the bottom four. We had endured a bad run (three wins from 20 games) but in my opinion it wasn't disastrous. "Yes, we needed to raise our game but we had been in this situation before and come through it. There were plenty of games left to turn it round - it was a crying shame that they didn't make it. "I took no pleasure in Bradford's relegation. I had enjoyed my time there and I was leaving behind some good players and nice people. "If I am totally honest, I had reached a point with Bradford where I could not take the club any further forward. "The club needed investment in a big way if it was to have any chance of restoring former glories." In his book, which has been co-written with former City vice-chairman Jim Brown, Todd talks in detail about the financial struggles that cursed his second spell at the club as Bryan Robson's number two and then manager. He even reveals that part of his wages helped pay another club employee. Todd said: "Administration brings any football club a whole host of problems. You simply stagger from match to match without any light at the end of the tunnel. "Your best players are up for grabs, usually at discounted prices, your loan options are at best severely restricted or disappear completely and staff just vanish. "I agreed to take the lowest wage possible and even allowed a proportion of that wage to be paid to another member of staff just to keep the club going. "Just when you think you have seen everything, something happens to stop you in your tracks." Todd admitted the fateful 2006-07 campaign had begun with "the worst pre-season I have endured in all my times in football", with City losing five out of their six friendlies. The Bantams still began that season with a bang but results dropped off dramatically from October and they slumped down League One. Yet Todd was still caught unawares when the axe fell after a 1-0 defeat at Gillingham. He said: "There is a saying that it's not over until the fat lady sings. Unbeknown to me, she had the microphone in her hand. "I never thought my job was under threat until I received a call after the Gillingham game to see the chairman on Monday morning. This set alarm bells ringing as it was an unusual request. "I had enjoyed a good relationship with Julian Rhodes and was full of admiration for what he and his family had done for the club but it did not make it any easier. "He only wanted the best for the football club, which I could understand, but I was a little miffed to find out I was the only one of the management team that had been sacked. "I put that down to the financial constraints the club was under. Nobody ever said life was fair." Rhodes said: "I hope that history will be kind to Colin's tenure. I know it should be." Toddy' is published by Breedon Books. Colin Todd will be signing copies of his book at Waterstones in Hustlergate on Thursday, May 29 between midday and 1pm. NO RETURN TO BRADFORD FOR LOACH Watford goalkeeper Scott Loach will not return to Bradford City next season, BBC Radio Leeds understands. The 19-year-old impressed during his loan spell at Valley Parade this season and City had hoped to re-sign him for next season's League Two campaign. However, the Hornets have decided to keep him at Vicarage Road after their failure to win promotion back to the Premier League. Loach made 20 City appearances and has been scouted by Premier League clubs. CITY SLICKERS FOR McCALL NOT SLACKERS Stuart McCall will come down hard on any City players that enjoy their summer break to excess. McCall was unhappy that several turned up for pre-season last year in less than tip-top shape. And he has made it clear that he will not accept a repeat when the squad returns to training on July 1. While the City boss wants the players to let off some steam during the off-season, he expects them to come back fit and ready for action. Each player has been given an individual fitness programme to follow during the summer and McCall will not stand for any slacking. "There were a few let themselves down last summer," he admitted while talking to the Telegraph & Argus. "We had to have a little splinter group doing their own running when we started off because they weren't up to joining in with the rest. "That won't happen again and I want all of them starting at a similar level physically. "It's changed since my day as a player when everyone used to come back half a stone overweight. We'd all spend the first week being sick because the only thing we did was run. "Now we want to get into ball work early on and start working on things and obviously you've got to have a decent level of fitness to do that." McCall has been pleased with the improvement in Omar Daley's fitness over the season. He was one of those who struggled at the start. Barry Conlon, having signed a new six-month deal, will be another one the manager will be keeping a close eye on. "He needs to come back in a better physical shape than before so he can put himself up for selection early on," added McCall. "But you've seen how he has improved markedly in that area during the season. "Of course central midfielders and lads like Kyle Nix are going to be able to run for a lot longer than strikers but you must be up to a certain level. "There's no need spending three weeks of pre-season running because you're not gaining anything from that." City set to miss out on Thompson By Dave Craven T&A City look like being beaten in the race to sign their top transfer target - Garry Thompson. The Morecambe winger has been in talks with Stuart McCall but seems certain to now turn the Bantams down. League One outfit Scunthorpe are thought to have seen off a host of other clubs to nail the in-demand wideman.

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CFML – City Forward! Mailing List

"All the news and none of the views"

Since February 1997

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This match report available online at The Texas Bantam Blog

New age fan waits for 2008/2009 DVD

A new virus threat emerged today as an online "certificate not valid" warning appeared on a City supporters computer screen.

"I'm shocked" said the fan who wished to remain anonymous, although his screename is "Mccallisgodnoquestion".

"I thought grounds were safe now. All seater, no smoking, but this "certificate not valid" warning made me fear for my safety. What if I was at the game and my mobile caught a virus? I can't take the chance that my MP3's might be deleted or my text messaging to my mum to see what we're having for tea might be changed to ask what we're having for dinner. "

"I've renewed my season ticket, but I'm not going to any games. I'll wait for the shacky supporters videos to appear on youtube or for the hightlights DVD to be realease by the Club. "

Asked what he would do with his extra time on a Saturday the fan replied " I'll spend another 6 hours on the Xbox with FIFA 2008. I can get City promoted and win the Champions league in that time."

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This post inspired by the inactive certificate at
https://bcafc.livewwware.com/renewal
as noted by a post to
http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/bcfc/messages

L2 May 3rd (a) L1-2 v Wycombe Wanderers

Game Summary:

From the cauldron of Middlesbrough on the Premiership's opening day to a low-key finale at Wycombe, it's been some journey for David Wetherall. Three divisions lower and nine years on, Adams Park could never hope to compare with the Riverside. But Wetherall's memories of his 330th appearance in claret and amber will be every bit as fond as his first.

The true professional that he is, the result of his last outing will irk. Particularly the two goals in the against column. But City's new first-team coach will never forget the rousing farewell he received from the fans.

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Tour round BCFC

A bit of City humour... http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/

Next game(s) : Upcoming fixtures

2008/2009 fixtures

FL2 Table Table

BCFC News

Must be a midlife crises - I'm on facebook !

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Match Video and Picture Links

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Highlights (UK only) Virgin Media

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Match Stats

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Soccerbase.com

Soccerway.com

Game Statistics

Wycobe / Wetheralls Last Game

11 Goal Attempts 9 7 On Target 7 11 Corners 3 5 Offside 2 8 Fouls 12 1 Yellow Cards 0 0 Red Cards 0 51 % 49

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BCFC Report (from the T&A )

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Wetherall given rousing send-off

By Simon Parker

From the cauldron of Middlesbrough on the Premiership's opening day to a low-key finale at Wycombe, it's been some journey for David Wetherall.

Three divisions lower and nine years on, Adams Park could never hope to compare with the Riverside. But Wetherall's memories of his 330th appearance in claret and amber will be every bit as fond as his first.

The true professional that he is, the result of his last outing will irk. Particularly the two goals in the against column.

But City's new first-team coach will never forget the rousing farewell he received from the fans.

A week after Valley Parade said its own goodbye, the 600-strong travelling army - including joint chairman Mark Lawn in his replica shirt - delivered their own special encore.

As the non-stop chorus boomed from behind the goal, Wetherall was clearly moved.

"It was fantastic from the moment I first came on the pitch," he admitted in an emotional voice. "The support I've had since being at the club has been magnificent.

"I'm extremely fortunate to have made my living up to now by playing football. When you can do that and experience what I have, the last couple of weeks is really special.

"I don't think supporters sometimes realise the effect they have on people and what their backing does. It has made a massive difference to me and I really do appreciate it."

Wetherall's career change starts on Tuesday when he sits down with Stuart McCall as his freshly-appointed first-team coach.

The fact he has already been supplied with a company mobile suggests a busier summer break than he would have enjoyed previously with the "old job".

"A lot of thoughts went through my head when the final whistle went. The chief one was thinking that once I got off the pitch that was it - the last bit of the last game.

"That's when it finally hits you. But times change and you can't keep doing the same things forever."

Having made his mark as City's best centre half in recent times, Wetherall played out his final moments at centre forward!

McCall added to the sense of occasion in the last ten minutes by replacing Luke Medley with defender Simon Ainge to allow his skipper to maraud up top.

We all hoped for that dream scenario; one cross; one header; one emotional equaliser. Sadly it didn't happen, although Wetherall was not too far away from getting something on Paul Heckingbottom's centre right at the death.

As referee Nigel Miller called time, Wetherall was smothered in a hug by opposing centre half Leon Johnson. The respect was clear as the tribute chorus rang down from behind the goal.

McCall said: "It would have been nice if the big man had got on the end of something. But it's such a mark of the man that in his last season he has played every second of every game.

"I've told the rest of the lads that if they achieve even a quarter of what Wethers has done then they will have a good career. He's been a terrific servant, both for us and Leeds, and a great ambassador for this club.

"As much as I'm disappointed that he won't be putting his boots on for us next season, I'm excited that we're getting another coach."

Wetherall may not have had a Paul Gascoigne to contain, as he did on his City debut, but there was a Spaniard called Torres. Midfielder Sergio Torres was among the Wycombe big-hitters recalled by Paul Lambert for their final dress rehearsal before Sunday's play-off with Stockport.

By contrast, City fielded a side of mix-and-match variety. Scott Phelan was given a rare start in the week that he had been bombed out - two others of the unlucky 13, Alex Rhodes and David Brown, were named on the bench.

It looked a mis-match on paper and Wycombe needed only five minutes to show why. Youngster Matt Phillips carved through the midfield before teeing up the much-travelled Delroy Facey to score via the foot of the far post.

The lead was doubled after 25 minutes.

City had just survived a scare as Scott Loach flapped at a Torres free-kick, David McCracken outjumping Barry Conlon to nod against the bar. The ball was scrambled behind for a corner but Wycombe were not finished.

Mike Williamson won the flick-on and Leon Knight, so often a thorn in City's side, reacted quickly from close range to hook home.

Things were looking bleak for the Bantams but not that you'd have known it from the private party going on behind Loach's goal. The away fans, quite a few in fancy dress, had created their own carnival atmosphere from well before kick-off and weren't going to let the small manner of a lop-sided scoreline to spoil the fun.

They sung and danced and tried regularly to get the rest of an apathetic crowd to join in the Mexican wave - even getting McCall to join in at one stage.

Maybe the Wycombe fans were keeping their powder dry for next week. Without the constant banter from the travelling army, you'd have been able to hear a pin drop.

Barry Conlon went off with a knock to give Brown his final chance and the little terrier made a quick impact when he chased a well-placed through ball from Ben Starosta.

Brown's speed got him to the ball a fraction before keeper Frank Fielding in the corner of the area and had his legs taken away.

The fans shouted for Wetherall to take it, which he laughed off with a shrug on the halfway line; instead it was young Luke Medley's chance to mark his full debut by confidently sending the keeper the wrong way.

That was it for the scoring, though City threatened to pull level in an improved second-half display.

Wycombe always looked capable of moving up a gear or two but there was nothing half-hearted about Fielding's magnificent save to deny Omar Daley. City also had a decent penalty shout ignored after Phelan was blatantly shoved over by Craig Woodman.

On another day it could have been a major point of grievance but City's thoughts, both on and off the field, were concentrated on one man.

The banner unfurled before the game carried the words "Wetherall legend". It is impossible to argue.

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Opposition Report

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Official match report

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Post match reaction

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Yorkshire Post

Wycombe Wanderers 2 Bradford City 1 DAVID WETHERALL ended his 17-year professional career as a makeshift striker but his efforts were not enough to see Bradford City sign off with a victory. Central defender Wetherall, who goes into coaching at City in the summer, was pushed up front in the closing stages of his 330th appearance as Stuart McCall's side pressed strongly for an equaliser at Adams Park. Wycombe, however, held on to go into the play-offs by finishing seventh. They finished 16 points clear of Bradford, who ended the season in 10th after being undone by goals from players who have both had stints with derby-rivals Huddersfield Town. Huddersfield-born and former Bradford loan striker Delroy Facey struck in the sixth minute after Matt Phillips ran through midfield unchallenged to set up the chance. One-time Chelsea prospect and striker-partner Leon Knight made it 2-0 in the 22nd minute when a deflected header from David McCracken struck the bar and went for a corner from which Knight prodded home from Mike Williamson's knock-down. Goalkeeper Scott Loach made some fine saves as Wycombe threatened to add to their tally, although some of their finishing was poor. City took advantage and struck just before the break when substitute David Brown, on for the injured Barry Conlon, was brought down by goalkeeper Frank Fielding and the referee pointed to the spot. The 600-plus City fans shouted for Wetherall to be given the spot-kick but, instead, Luke Medley stepped up to his score on his full debut. Fielding pulled off a great save from Omar Daley after the break as City showed greater resolve and substitute goalkeeper Craig Woodman was tested by Alex Rhodes and full debutant Sean Taylforth. Woodman also appeared to shove Scott Phelan to the ground but referee Nigel Miller refused to award City a further penalty. Wycombe Wanderers: Fielding (Young 57), Johnson, Williamson, McCracken, Woodman, Phillips (Oakes 78), Holt, Doherty, Torres, Knight, Facey (McGleish 78). Unused substitutes: Martin, Sutton. Bradford City: Loach, Starosta, Wetherall, Bower, Heckingbottom, Daley (Rhodes 75), Phelan, Nix, Taylforth, Conlon (Brown 28), Medley (Ainge 84). Unused substitutes: O'Brien, Sharry. Referee: N Miller (Durham). City man of the match: David Wetherall.

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Other News

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Conlon signs six-month deal Exclusive By Simon Parker

Barry Conlon has declared himself "as happy as Larry" to sign a new deal for City - for only six months. The big striker is confident he has made the right move, even though the contract runs out in January. Conlon, forced off early in the 2-1 defeat at Wycombe after a knock in the ribs, said: "There are other clubs in this league and the one above that I could have gone to but I'm delighted to be here. "That's the main thing at this stage of my career. I want success and I believe that can happen at this club. "This season's been frustrating for me but I'm as happy as Larry to stay because I think the next one will be good. "The six-month contract works in favour of both the club and me but I'm confident enough in myself and back my ability to take it on from there." Stuart McCall has earmarked another striker among his transfer targets for the summer, which will push Conlon down the pecking order. The Irishman, who netted seven times, has made as many substitute appearances as starts and accepts he will have a fight on his hands to play regularly. He added: "The gaffer will have his own ideas about who he wants to bring in and he spoke to me about strengthening the squad. "He's looking for another striker but I'm happy with that. I don't mind that whatsoever because I am up for the challenge. "Everybody says the same things at this time of the year about having a good season next time but I'd rather be here than at the clubs who just talk about it. I really believe we can be successful." After spending recent years as a football nomad around the lower divisions, Conlon insists he will benefit from not being involved in the traditional summer scramble for out-of-contract players. "This time last year I didn't have a clue what was happening. I was away on my summer holiday when I got the phone call from the gaffer to come here. "At least now I won't have to leave it until the last minute. I've got a head start on people, which is always a bonus, and I'll make sure I stay on top of things and come back fit for pre-season."

Let's talk, says free agent Brandon Exclusive By Simon Parker

Chris Brandon today opened the door for a possible switch to hometown club City. Brandon has been released by new Huddersfield boss Stan Ternent after four years at the Galpharm. And the Bradford-born midfielder indicated that he would welcome an approach from the Bantams. Brandon said: "I'm open to offers at the moment and I'd be happy to talk to Bradford if they are interested. "I've been left in limbo a little bit as Gerry Murphy wanted to keep me at Hudders-field but the new manager has come in and made his decision, even though he's never seen me play." The 32-year-old grew up a City fan and used to idolise Stuart McCall as a youngster. He still lives within ten minutes of Valley Parade and has made no secret that he would love to play for his boyhood club one day. But despite the pulling power of his Bradford roots, City still face plenty of competition for his signature. His wages at Huddersfield are also believed to be above what they would be prepared to offer. "My agent has been contacted by about a dozen clubs," he added, "so we'll just have to wait and see what happens." Brandon began his career at Park Avenue and did not turn pro until 23 when he joined Torquay. After moving to Chesterfield, Peter Jackson brought him back to West Yorkshire in July 2004 and he played 148 games for Huddersfield, scoring 14 goals. Brandon can play anywhere across the midfield and Murphy briefly played him up front when he took temporary charge after Andy Ritchie was sacked. But Brandon sat out the last three games of the season after suffering a hamstring injury during the derby win over Leeds. Having released 13 players last week, McCall is busy finalising his transfer targets and will be watching the play-off games closely. The City boss said: "There are a lot of play-offs in the next couple of weeks where players might be available. There are also players that have got year options on their contracts and the clubs will be deciding whether to take that up. "I could go out now and get five or six players but are they going to be better than we've got? We want to aim high and try to get the best possible. "The phone calls are flying about and it's nice to hear agents saying that a player might have x, y or z to go to but he'd really like to speak to you."

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"All the news and none of the views"

Since February 1997

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