Thursday, February 24, 2011
Peter Taylor is to part company with city by mutual consent
Peter Taylor is to part company with city by mutual consent after Saturday's home game with Stockport
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http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2301543,00.html
Taylor: The time was right
Posted on: Thu 24 Feb 2011
Outgoing City boss Peter Taylor believes now was the right time for him to depart from the football club after just over a year in charge.
The former England Under 21's manager is contracted to the football club until the end of this season, but he will now leave at the weekend after a season of struggle.
Taylor spoke to the waiting media on Thursday to give his views on the situation.
He said: "I have agreed to leave the football club after Saturday's game.
"I've taken into consideration the events of Tuesday's match and I just feel it will be more helpful now if I move aside.
"It is in the best interests of the players, football club and everybody else.
"I had a good meeting with one of the Joint-Chairman, Julian Rhodes, on Wednesday. It was a very helpful, very productive and respective meeting.
"We had a tremendous chat and I'm really impressed with Julian and Mark Lawn. They've been very supportive.
"Now it was just the best time to go for everybody's sake. Bradford City is more important than any individual."
Taylor will take the reins for 54th and final time as Bantams manager on Saturday when the Hatters arrive at the Coral Windows Stadium.
Despite his forthcoming departure, Taylor admits he still has strong feelings for the football club and he is desperate to end on a high.
He said: "I love the football club, I have really enjoyed my time here and I don't want to see it struggle.
"I am desperate to finish off with a win on Saturday because the football club means a lot to me.
"I have only been here a year, but I have really loved it here. I have loved the feeling around here.
"It is a really good club and I am really disappointed that we just haven't been more success during my time here.
"I really hope the fans turn up and really support the players on Saturday. It is a massive game for the football club and we will be doing everything possible to try and win it."
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http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2301427,00.html
Joint-Chairman gives his reaction
Posted on: Thu 24 Feb 2011
Bradford City Joint-Chairman Mark Lawn spoke openly this afternoon about Peter Taylor leaving the football club and Saturday's huge fixture with Stockport County.
It was confirmed on Thursday afternoon that Taylor would be leaving his position as First Team Manager after this weekend's home clash with the Hatters.
Mr Lawn said: "After discussions with Julian (Rhodes) on Wednesday, Peter has decided that it is best for the football club if he leaves by mutual consent.
"I think Peter appreciates that some of the negativity around the club has been transferred to the players and that is not helping things on the pitch.
"We will begin interviews for the managerial position from the start of next week and we are asking that any interested parties to apply to Bradford City Football Club.
"We will have an open mind when it comes to new applicants. We will not be ruling out any type of manager, old or new.
We will also be open to appointing either a manager on a short-term or long-term basis - it just depends on the situation.
"We just want to see someone who will impress us enough to get the job, whoever that may be, but this whole process has to be done smoothly, professionally and it has to be done right."
Despite today's announcement, Taylor's upcoming departure from the football club will still struggle to dilute the importance of this weekend's vital match.
Lawn says that the club and it's fans must now come together to help Taylor make it winning farewell to his time at the Coral Windows Stadium as City take on fellow strugglers Stockport.
He added "The focus now must be on the football club heading into Saturday's match.
"We know we are in a relegation battle at the moment and Saturday's match is a huge fixture for this football club.
"Peter and his coaching staff will be fully focused on securing a victory from that game and they will be leaving all the other stuff to Julian and myself.
"I hope on Saturday the fans will appreciate Peter's decision to stay on until after the weekend to help the side in such a crucial fixture and they give him and the players their support.
"Peter is an extremely professional man and we have no doubts that he will be trying his upmost to secure a win for this club on Saturday.
"I urge supporters to take advantage of the special £1.00 admission offer that is currently running and come to the ground on Saturday and support the team.
"Bradford City are a football club like any other - we can get relegated just like any other team. We need all our fans to join together and help support the football club."
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http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2300960,00.html
City offer entry for £1.00
Posted on: Thu 24 Feb 2011
The football club can now confirm that ALL City supporters will be able to bring friends and family to Saturday's crucial home fixture with Stockport County for ONLY £1.00 each.
This amazing offer, which was originally only available to Season Ticket holders, has now been made open to every single Bradford City supporter due to high levels of interest.
One pound match tickets will be available from 9:00am this morning (Thursday) from the Bantams Ticket Office until 12noon on matchday (Saturday 26 February 2011).
Supporters can purchase as many tickets as they like for £1.00 each - there are no limits. Supporters can purchase 1 ticket for £1.00, 10 tickets for £10.00 or even 100 tickets for £100.00.
After consultations with the Police, it has been decided that unfortunately supporters will be unable to purchase match tickets on the turnstiles on the day.
The offer is open to all parts of the Coral Windows Stadium, including the Bantams Bar and Supporters' Suites in the Co-Operative Main Stand.
The £1.00 special offer tickets will be unavailable on the Bantams Ticketing Website though.
For more information, please ring (01274) 773355.
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TAYLOR TELLS RADIO LEEDS
Bradford City manager Peter Taylor tells BBC Radio Leeds the Bantams fans'
reaction to him during their 1-0 defeat by Chesterfield made up his mind to
leave.
Radio link:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/b/bradford_city/9406774.stm
Monday, February 21, 2011
L2 (A) Port Vale L1-2, Friday February 18, 2011. K.O. 7:45PM.
Next fixture
L2 (H) Chesterfield, Tuesday February 22, 2011. K.O. 7:45PM.
L2 (H) Stockport Saturdayday February 26, 2011. K.O. 3:00PM.
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Norman Corner tributes
http://www.boyfrombrazil.co.uk/2011/02/norman-corner-a-folk-hero-of-his-time/?
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/8865995.Norman_Corner_dies_aged_68/
Former City and Park Avenue player Norman Corner has died, three days after his 68th birthday.
Horden-born Corner played up front and at centre half for City, with his 6ft 2in frame proving a useful asset in both roles.
Corner helped City into Division Three in his first season at Valley Parade before leaving to join Avenue, by then a non-league club, in March 1972.
Four years earlier, he had scored a hat-trick at Avenue while playing for Lincoln.
Corner leaves wife Jean and a son and daughter.
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Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2297743,00.html?
Extremely bad video!! Requires flash plugin
City's goal
http://www.screencast.com/t/ACha8nRJhbX
Last 2 minutes
http://www.screencast.com/t/WfJpSWEFh
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
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Match stats
Referee: Gavin Ward Attendance: 4775 Stadium: Vale Park
Port Vale
C. Martin, A. Yates, J. McCombe, L. Collins, E. Geohaghon, G. Roberts , L. Haldane (R. Sutton, 86), D. Loft, A. Griffith , J. Richards (K. Brown, 75), T. Pope (M. Richards , 85)
Subs not used: S. Morsy, J. O'Shea, S. Tomlinson, K. Taylor
Goals Tom Pope (49, 64);
City
L. Pidgeley, L. Oliver, L. O'Brien , S. Williams, L. Hunt , M. Flynn, L. Osborne (J. Speight, 70), T. Adeyemi, K. Ellison, G. Evans, S. Dobie
Subs not used: J. Worthington, S. Duff, L. Dean, L. Horne, R. Threlfall, J. McLaughlan
Goal : Tom Adeyemi (84);
===========================
Match report
Pope double leaves Bradford City praying relegation rivals slip up
7:50am Saturday 19th February 2011
By Simon Parker
Port Vale 2 Bradford City 1
For the second week running, an on-loan Rotherham striker was the toast of his new fans.
Only last night at Vale Park, it wasn't Kevin Ellison.
Instead, his erstwhile Millers team-mate Tom Pope netted his first goals for the club he supported as a boy.
The fact that Pope is likely to go back to Rotherham next week as part of Port Vale's cost-cutting measures will be no consolation whatsoever to the Bantams.
In the week that Peter Taylor stated that he was still "gripped" by City, his side missed the chance to grab a foothold in mid-table.
Instead, they will face an anxious afternoon helplessly watching the other scores around them and hoping the six-point gap to the bottom two remains in place.
Tom Adeyemi tried to throw a cat among the pigeons with a late response and City could have snatched an equaliser in a frantic stoppage time.
But ultimately the battle between the division's lowest-scoring attack and most miserly defence had gone to form.
In their first TV outing since 2008, injuries had once again forced Taylor's hand. Already without David Syers and James Hanson, he also lost Simon Ramsden yesterday morning.
The right back only made his comeback last weekend against Wycombe after six months out but he felt a pain in his thigh in training and did not make the trip to the Potteries.
There was a further change to go with the three enforced ones as Taylor opted for the fit-again Leon Osborne over Jon Worthington.
With the two leading scorers out, nobody in the starting line-up had scored more than twice for City this season. Adeyemi, at least, had settled that score by the end.
A group of banner-waving home fans deliberately walked in two minutes after kick-off, marching the length of the stand to highlight their campaign to remove the Port Vale board.
The rest of the crowd had a bigger beef with Lenny Pidgeley, accusing the City keeper of making a meal of a challenge from Justin Richards.
Vale went close after seven minutes as Gary Roberts combined with Pope, whose header whizzed past the post.
Lewis Haldane's pace was causing City an early headache and Lewis Hunt escaped a booking for pulling him down outside the box.
The City right back then got forward to set up Scott Dobie for a Wayne Rooney-style overhead. The on-loan St Johnstone striker failed to connect properly, the ball running loose off his hand for Kevin Ellison to rattle against an advertising board behind the goal.
Hunt tested referee Gavin Ward's patience with another foul and got his yellow card. Vale pushed up from the free-kick and Doug Loft's 25-yarder was shovelled round the post by Pidgeley.
Roberts missed the top corner with a bending shot on the turn but Osborne attempted an immediate response, cutting inside Adam Yates to fire beyond the far post.
Michael Flynn, the eighth different player to wear the skipper's armband, was sitting deep in the holding role vacated by Worthington. Osborne and Adeyemi were asked to supply the legs alongside him.
But the bulk of the play was at the other end, where Vale chipped away without really troubling Pidgeley's goal.
Hunt continued to be in the thick of it and blocked Lee Collins in the City area after Loft's clever pass had opened up the defence.
O'Brien made it both full backs in the book after half an hour for a touchline trip on Haldane. It was scrappy stuff, not helped by a strong, bitterly cold wind.
The 205-strong band of City fans who had resisted the lure of watching it on TV were making themselves heard as Collins had a half chance with a flicked header wide from a short corner.
Ellison squared up to former Rotherham team-mate Roberts, shoving him away with a firm palm, but the official let it go with a warning.
The home side had failed to create anything clear cut inside the box but City nearly shot themselves in the foot as half-time approached.
Luke Oliver got in a mess as he tried to deal with a high ball under pressure from Pope. The ball squirted away from the big man, running loose to Roberts, and the stranded Pidgeley was relieved to watch his chip sail over.
City finally forced their first corner and unveiled a new training-ground routine as four men rushed into the box while the kick was instead played short to O'Brien. The momentary distraction created the space for Evans to deliver a decent cross but Collins headed clear under pressure.
Steve Williams suffered a momentary lapse a minute into the second half, missing the ball completely. Fortunately, it just bounced off the unwitting Pope before he could react.
But City were punished four minutes in. Loft's shot was beaten behind by the diving Pidgeley but the midfielder's corner was right on the head of Pope, who looped home the first goal of his loan spell from Rotherham.
City looked for a quick response. Flynn volleyed wide from 20 yards after Exodus Geohaghon had headed away a corner and Ellison was shut off in full stride by the powerful John McCombe.
But City's task got considerably harder after 64 minutes as Vale went two up. Yates's cross was helped on by Justin Richards and Pope claimed his second goal.
Taylor's side needed something from somewhere – and suddenly started having a real go.
Evans whacked a free-kick that Chris Martin fisted away and Williams hooked agonisingly over from close range.
With 20 minutes left, Jake Speight was thrown on against the side where he spent two months earlier in the season – and he wasn't far off scoring with his first touch.
But Speight helped throw City an 84th-minute lifeline, holding the ball up well before Adeyemi ran on to his pass to cut the deficit from 12 yards.
It set up a manic stoppage time when City did everything but equalise.
Hunt's goal-bound drive was headed out by McCombe and then, with Pidgeley up for the resulting corner, the keeper got in the way of Ellison.
==========================
From Thursday
From the Official BCFC Website...
ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY FOR TAYLOR
Thursday (17 Feb 2011) marked the one year anniversary of Peter Taylor's
appointment as Bradford City manager.
After one year in the Valley Parade hot-seat, Taylor readily admits that the
last twelve months haven't gone as he would have planned.
The Bantams boss says he remains as keen as ever to succeed in the job
though, and he is still open to learning new things even a year into the
job.
Taylor said: "It's been a very challenging year for the squad and for
myself. It has also been a very surprising one. But I'm old enough to know
that you have to live and learn.
"I'm learning all the time about the club and what type of players I feel we
need in here to do well.
"Despite the disappointments of this season, I still love it and Bradford
are a great club to be involved with.
I've said all along that there's something about this club that has gripped
me.
"I still believe I could get a good team with experience here, with a little
bit of luck. Maybe not this season, but I'm sure that could happen given the
opportunity."
===========================
From the Official BCFC Website...
ELLIOT JOINS HARROGATE TOWN ON LOAN
Peter Taylor has allowed young goalkeeper Chris Elliott to leave the
football club on a loan deal to Harrogate Town.
Elliott, 18, has joined the Blue Square Bet North side for one month to
allow him to get some first team matches under his belt.
The move will see the shot-stopper join up with City team-mate Chib Chilaka
at Harrogate, who is also currently on loan with the Sulphurites.
Elliott has already enjoyed a loan spell in North Yorkshire this campaign
after spending three months at Town's near neighbours, Harrogate Railway, at
the start of the season.
The Newcastle-born 'keeper was one of only two players from last season's
youth team to break through into the senior squad for this year.
He put pen to paper on his first professional contract back in June, around
six weeks after picking up the Youth Team's Player of the Year award.
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Port Vale blow Bantams' chances of climbing the table Sky-high
7:00am Saturday 19th February 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Taylor stressed City must conquer their nerves after they slithered back into trouble with another away defeat.
The Bantams were beaten 2-1 at Port Vale last night in front of the Sky cameras to remain stuck in the battle for survival.
City produced a late rally after Tom Adeyemi pulled one back with his third goal of the season but the defeat leaves them six points off the bottom two, who both play today.
But Taylor blasted his side for waiting until they were two behind before showing some proper fight.
He said: "Managers all round the country will say it's a lot easier to play when you're 2-0 down. That to me is totally unacceptable.
"We've got to play like that at kick-off time and through the game.
"I don't see how we should be as nervous as we were in the first half.
"But we're in this serious situation and that's why players are nervous. It's been an inconsistent season with poor results and we've got to be better than that."
City nearly grabbed a point through Lewis Hunt in a frenzied assault on the Vale goal in stoppage time.
Taylor added: "I felt he should have scored.
"He had a lot of time and picked his spot – it was a great chance.
"I also thought Jake Speight was going to head the ball in at the far post but he looked to be pushed from behind.
"Jake was a plus because he looked a handful when he came on.
"Port Vale might have sat back to protect their lead, so there might have been a few more gaps than earlier in the game, but I thought he did okay."
Simon Ramsden added to City's constant injury woes when he pulled a thigh muscle in training. He is unlikely to be fit to face leaders Chesterfield on Tuesday.
Taylor, who will watch next month's opponents Rotherham and Shrewsbury this afternoon, said: "It's incredibly frustrating. We did the (training) session and all the set-pieces with Rams taking them.
"Then he complained of feeling his thigh and it just got stiffer. That just sums up this season."
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Monday, February 14, 2011
L2 (H) v Wycombe Feb 12th 2011 K.O. 3.00pm
NPower League Two
Bradford C (0) 1 Ellison 69
Wycombe (0) 0
Att: 10,987
Next fixture
L2 (A) Port Vale, Friday February 18, 2011. K.O. 7:45PM.
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2292518,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_3/9396426.stm (UK Only)
The goal (courtesy of Mike Harrison)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIEAYRb77m0
Links
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Match stats
Bradford C: 40. Lenny Pidgeley, 15. Lewis Hunt, 2. Simon Ramsden, 6. Luke
Oliver, 3. Luke O'Brien, 19. Jonathan Worthington (46), 4. Michael Flynn,
23. David Syers (66), 11. Scott Dobie, 17. James Hanson (18), 26. Kevin
Ellison.
SUBS: 1. Jon McLaughlin (GK), 9. Gareth Evans (18), 10. Jake Speight, 12.
Steve Williams (66), 16. Shane Duff, 20. Tom Adeyemi (46), 27. Louis Horne.
Wycombe: 1. Nikki Bull, 19. Marvin McCoy, 5. Dave Winfield, 23. Chris
Westwood (46), 21. Anthony Straker, 7. Gareth Ainsworth (62), 10. Matt
Bloomfield, 18. Stuart Lewis, 11. Kevin Betsy, 12. Ben Strevens, 20. Stuart
Beavon (75).
SUBS: 32. Steven Arnold (GK), 4. Alan Bennett (46), 9. Scott Rendell (62),
16. Jon-Paul Pittman, 17. Lewis Montrose, 22. Scott Donnelly, 29. Matt
McClure (75).
Stats: Bradford C - Wycombe
Possession: 53 - 47%
Shots on target: 2 - 3
Shots off target: 5 - 6
Fouls: 9 - 8
Corners: 3 - 3
Ref: Geoff Eltringham (Sunderland).
Yellow Cards:
Bradford C: None
Wycombe: Betsy (37 min.)
===========================
Saturday evening match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Kevin Ellison became an instant City hero after clinching a vital victory
over Wycombe.
Just two days after replacing Omar Daley, the on-loan Rotherham winger
scored on his debut to settle a tense afternoon.
City's first win since January 3 eased them away from the relegation places
and took some heat of boss Peter Taylor.
City's average age shot up to 27 as Taylor made six changes and packed the
ranks with experience.
Michael Flynn, one of those older heads, was in the thick of it from the
start but the Bantams had an escape on 15 minutes when Chris Westwood's
header was kicked off the line by Luke O'Brien. Gareth Ainsworth's follow-up
was blocked in the goal-mouth.
The injury jinx that has plagued Taylor continued when James Hanson, who had
nearly scored from the game's first attack with a close-range flick, was
forced to limp out of the action early. He was followed off midway through
the second half by David Syers.
It was a dour opening 45 minutes but Wycombe were enjoying more of the ball
as time went on. They had a penalty shout ignored when Ben Strevens went
down under Lewis Hunt.
Lenny Pidgeley, preferred to Jon McLaughlin in goal, made a good save from
Stuart Lewis two minutes before the break.
City had a bit more about them after the re-start and the crowd, subdued
before then, roared into life. Tom Adeyemi's arrival had added some energy
to the home side.
Syers' departure in the 66th minute was another blow for City in a season
full of them but Valley Parade was sent into raptures three minutes later
when Ellison swept home O'Brien's cross.
Wycombe should have levelled when sub Matt McClure put a free header over.
City, though, stuck at it to put paid to the wretched recent run - and put
some much-needed daylight between them and the bottom two.
===========================
Mike Harrison's entry on the BT web site "Life's a pitch".
With just one solitary point from the past 6 games and that was at league leaders Chesterfield 2 weeks ago, the arrival of 2nd placed Wycombe to Valley Parade last Saturday should not have held any fear for the mightily inconsistent Bantams. Because the one thing that is predictable about Peter Taylor's men are that given lowly opposition (Macclesfield, Accrington, Barnet and Lincoln) then of course they'll struggle. But when a promotion chasing side comes to visit, well the chances are City will perform. City's last home win was against promotion chasing Bury and now another highly placed side have left Valley Parade empty handed.
Peter Taylor made many changes to the side today with Pidgeley returning in goal and Flynn, Ramsden and Hunt all starting a game for the first time in months. Add to this the debuts of Scott Dobie and Kevin Ellison and this was a very different looking City side that lost at home to Lincoln 11 days ago. Injuries to James Hanson in the first half and then David Syers in the second further changed the line up and with Tom Adeyemi replacing Jon Worthington at half time there was no room to manoeuvre if any of the players making a comeback today were to succumb to lack of match fitness.
With the score at 0-0 at half time and having played a fairly defensive 4-5-1 formation, Taylor changed this to 4-1-2-2-1 if that is indeed an accepted formation. But it seemed to work as City dominated most of the second half and they were duly rewarded for their efforts when the fans man of the match Luke O'Brien sent over a swerving cross from the left which was perfectly met by the debutant Ellison at the far post. As the game neared its conclusion, once again City sat back and defended their slender one goal advantage, but this time thanks to some woeful Wycombe attempts on goal, the Bantams survived to claim all three points. Much to the relief of the long suffering home fans who went home happy to be a Bradford City fan for a change.
www.lifesapitch.co.uk
===========================
Monday morning match report
Wing recruit urges new team-mates to show 110 per cent commitment in battle to win over fans
7:10am Monday 14th February 2011
By Simon Parker
City 1, Wycombe 0
It was the moment that proved City had found their stomach for the battle.
No, not the goal itself, though that was special enough as the excellent Luke O'Brien's cross was gleefully converted by new fans' favourite Kevin Ellison.
Rather it was the drop ball five minutes from the end as the collective nerves were jangling.
It has become a forgotten art in modern football. The one-on-one confrontation beneath the referee usually makes way for a gentleman's agreement over who's going to lump the ball towards the other side's goalkeeper.
But Ellison was having none of it. He convincingly won the face-off on halfway with Ben Strevens and then crunched his way through a follow-up challenge from Stuart Lewis, winning himself a foul in the process.
Valley Parade rose as one to cheer. A line had been drawn in the sand.
Ellison's first appearance had been just what it said on the tin. A healthy dollop of commitment and skill, mixed with a willingness to make it ugly and uncomfortable for the visitors.
Anyone still doubting Peter Taylor's assertion that the no-nonsense Rotherham winger was more suited to City's plight than the fleet-footed Omar Daley was won over by that thundering 50-50.
"The main thing about being a professional footballer is that you always give 110 per cent for the team," said Ellison afterwards.
"It's about hard work and that's what fans pay to see. I said to a few of the lads before the game that we need to get back to basics – be big, strong and in people's faces.
"The home crowd here are the best in the league. If they can get behind us and be the 12th man then we'll get out of this."
City's infuriating tendency to bloody the noses of the division's top dogs struck again; infuriating because they can't seem to do it to anyone below the top seven on a regular basis.
Just like Bury, their last win way back on January 3, Wycombe arrived at Valley Parade boasting one of the best away records with only two defeats from 12 on the road.
For much of a nondescript first half, that confidence was plain to see.
Taylor had packed the ranks with experience, as expected, but it was the oldest man on the field – 37-year-old Gareth Ainsworth – who possessed the surest touch during that opening period.
There were few incidents of note but Ainsworth had a goal-bound shot swallowed up after O'Brien had cleared off the line from Chris Westwood.
O'Brien put in another excellent shift at left back and linked well with Ellison all game. Dare we suggest that the youngster looked better for having a winger in front of him who was prepared to track back a lot more.
City's desire to get the result that had eluded them for the past six weeks was evident in many of Taylor's 'Dad's Army' line-up.
Scott Dobie, who along with Ellison took the tally of players for the season to 35, took a while to get up to speed. But his impact grew as the game wore on – and exemplified the spirit when tackling back in his own six-yard box to deny Strevens a certain tap-in.
Then there were the three long-term casualties all thrown in from the start. Michael Flynn had at least got three bench run-outs under his belt but Simon Ramsden and Lewis Hunt were straight in.
Ramsden, like Dobie, had some early rusty moments. Hunt, playing at centre half, escaped a convincing penalty shout but otherwise barely put a foot wrong.
The old heads at the back made a difference. City's average age had shot up to 27 with the six changes from the Lincoln collapse.
Lenny Pidgeley, who had celebrated that birthday last week, was the most surprising choice. Given Jon McLaughlin's form since his own recall, few would have expected his senior goalkeeping partner to get the nod.
But Pidgeley also did his bit with an athletic save from a Lewis half-volley a couple of minutes before the break. A goal then would surely have consigned City to another miserable afternoon.
Taylor used the half-time break to the maximum. Wycombe emerged from the tunnel a good five minutes before their hosts.
Jon Worthington was sacrificed so that Tom Adeyemi's younger legs could improve the tempo. Suddenly Ainsworth found himself with a lot less time and space to manoeuvre.
City's attack, which had looked toothless since James Hanson hobbled away in discomfort with an injured groin, began to find its edge.
Ellison was able to go on the front foot; Dobie was becoming a handful. City's belief grew and with it, the fans found their voice.
The loss of David Syers midway through the half was another hurdle that had to be negotiated. Ramsden slipped into midfield and Steve Williams, another straight off the sick bed, made his first appearance since that last win.
Three minutes later, the place exploded in relief. O'Brien collected Flynn's throw-in and whipped an inviting cross into the Wycombe goalmouth. Dobie strained but couldn't get there; Ellison, though, had followed it in all the way and delivered a confident finish.
Off came the shirt in a frenzied celebration; a personal dig at his mates who knock him for not scoring enough and a symbol to the Kop of the "all-in-it" togetherness of those on and off the pitch.
Hearts were in mouths when substitute Matt McClure looped a free header over City's bar. But Ellison then restored the collective nerve with that crunching drop ball.
He made a point of saluting all four sides of the ground at the final whistle. The fans were happy to stay behind and cheer him back.
Ellison's most significant contribution could turn out to be restoring that bond between the players and the crowd. Attendance: 10,897
===========================
Taylor insists pressure is just as intense
8:10am Monday 14th February 2011
By Simon Parker
City's first win for six weeks is no reason to switch off, they were warned today.
Saturday's victory – the first since January 3 – stretched the gap between the Bantams and the second relegation spot to six points. They also have games in hand on the bottom two.
But Peter Taylor insists the spotlight remains just as intense on himself and the team.
He said: "No, the pressure is not off at the minute. We should be doing better than 34 points.
"We've got to start grinding out a few more results like that, then all of a sudden we'll have a bit more confidence and people will see how well we can play. They've seen it in certain games but not enough.
"You look at Wycombe, who are a really good team, have had good results, are working hard and that's why they are having a good season.
"We need to get a few more wins, then we can hopefully get to that level."
Kevin Ellison, Omar Daley's replacement from Rotherham, scored the only goal on a memorable debut and became an instant hit with the Valley Parade fans.
Taylor said: "I'm pleased for Kevin. Any player wants the supporters to like him and I'm sure they love him at the moment.
"He and Scott Dobie haven't had many starts lately and they showed great fitness. They've got to keep it going now.
"Kevin can score and he can cross it and I think he showed that. He got more of the ball second half and linked really well with Luke O'Brien – and he scored a tremendous goal."
But City's first win for seven games was blighted by more injury problems. Both James Hanson (groin) and David Syers (hamstring) are likely to be out until next month.
Taylor had only just brought back long-term casualties Simon Ramsden, Michael Flynn and Lewis Hunt to beef up the team's experience.
The City chief admitted: "The injury front hasn't been that kind to us. James didn't play against Wycombe down there and I really felt he would show them how strong he is in the air.
"It was a bit of a killer for us to lose him so early. Now he's going to be out for two or three weeks – and it's the same with Syers."
Taylor added: "I felt the more experienced players certainly helped the performance. The people who were playing their first game for a long time showed great character.
"I was happy to win in any way. We needed the three points and, looking at the other results, it was very important."
===========================
Gillingham tickets on sale
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2292534,00.html?
Match tickets for the Bantams' trip to Gillingham are now on general sale from the Bantams Ticket Office.
Peter Taylor's men are scheduled to travel to the Priestfield Stadium on Saturday 5 March 2011.
The football club would like to inform supporters that the away section at the Priestfield Stadium is an UNCOVERED seating section.
Admission Prices:
Adults: £20
Senior Citizen: £16 (over 65)
Young Adult: £13 (16-21 yrs)
Juvenile: £9 (12-16)
Under 12: £6
Disabled: £20 (includes free carer) -
Supporters can also purchase tickets at Gillingham on the day although prices will be more expensive.
Admission Prices:
Adults: £23
Senior Citizen: £19
Young Adult: £16
Juvenile: £11
Under 12: £7
Disabled: £23
Further information on match tickets for this and away fixtures at Port Vale and Morecambe can be found by ringing the Ticket Office on (01274) 770012.
Away travel tickets are also on sale for City's trip to Gillingham priced at £30.00 each.
The official supporters' coach will depart from outside the Surridge Superstore at 9:00am prompt.
===========================
Raise money for BCFC youth department.
From the Official BCFC Website…
EMMERDALE EXTRAS REQUIRED
Posted on: Fri 11 Feb 2011
The Bantams are on the lookout for hundreds of City fans to play extras in a
sequence on ITV1 soap Emmerdale.
The Yorkshire-based show will be filming part of a forthcoming episode at
the Coral Windows Stadium in early March and they require the help of around
200 Bradford supporters to bring the scene to life.
Filming will take place between 8:00am and 6:00pm on Wednesday 2 March 2011
and supporters would need to be available for the whole duration of this
period.
The club will be on hand though to provide a hot buffet lunch, plus tea's
and coffee's during the day.
Any City supporters who would like to be involved are kindly asked to
register their interest through the Bantams' Director of Operations, David
Baldwin, via davidbaldwin@the-bantams.co.uk.
Fans can also register an interest in taking part by ringing the football
club direct on (01274) 773355.
All fans involved must be 16 or over to take part and would need to be
dressed in the same attire that they would normally wear to a City fixture
(i.e. hat, shirts, scarves).
For every supporter who acts as an extra, Emmerdale have also kindly agreed
to donate £5.00 to the youth department at Valley Parade.
===========================
CHILAKA ON LOAN TO HARROGATE TOWN
Striker Chibuzor Chilaka has joined Blue Square Bet North club Harrogate
Town on loan from NPower League Two neighbours Bradford City.
Chilaka, 24, a real powerhouse of a forward, started out with Rushden &
Diamonds' academy and then had spells with Notts County, Bridlington Town
and Leeds Carnegie before signing for Bradford City last August.
He recently signed a one-year contract with the Bantams but has been unable
to secure a regular berth in the first-team as he continues to learn his way
in professional football.
Earlier this season he spent a month out on loan with Evo-Stik League
Premier Division side Bradford Park Avenue.
===========================
Bradford C (0) 1 Ellison 69
Wycombe (0) 0
Att: 10,987
Next fixture
L2 (A) Port Vale, Friday February 18, 2011. K.O. 7:45PM.
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2292518,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_3/9396426.stm (UK Only)
The goal (courtesy of Mike Harrison)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIEAYRb77m0
Links
===========================
Match stats
Bradford C: 40. Lenny Pidgeley, 15. Lewis Hunt, 2. Simon Ramsden, 6. Luke
Oliver, 3. Luke O'Brien, 19. Jonathan Worthington (46), 4. Michael Flynn,
23. David Syers (66), 11. Scott Dobie, 17. James Hanson (18), 26. Kevin
Ellison.
SUBS: 1. Jon McLaughlin (GK), 9. Gareth Evans (18), 10. Jake Speight, 12.
Steve Williams (66), 16. Shane Duff, 20. Tom Adeyemi (46), 27. Louis Horne.
Wycombe: 1. Nikki Bull, 19. Marvin McCoy, 5. Dave Winfield, 23. Chris
Westwood (46), 21. Anthony Straker, 7. Gareth Ainsworth (62), 10. Matt
Bloomfield, 18. Stuart Lewis, 11. Kevin Betsy, 12. Ben Strevens, 20. Stuart
Beavon (75).
SUBS: 32. Steven Arnold (GK), 4. Alan Bennett (46), 9. Scott Rendell (62),
16. Jon-Paul Pittman, 17. Lewis Montrose, 22. Scott Donnelly, 29. Matt
McClure (75).
Stats: Bradford C - Wycombe
Possession: 53 - 47%
Shots on target: 2 - 3
Shots off target: 5 - 6
Fouls: 9 - 8
Corners: 3 - 3
Ref: Geoff Eltringham (Sunderland).
Yellow Cards:
Bradford C: None
Wycombe: Betsy (37 min.)
===========================
Saturday evening match report
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Kevin Ellison became an instant City hero after clinching a vital victory
over Wycombe.
Just two days after replacing Omar Daley, the on-loan Rotherham winger
scored on his debut to settle a tense afternoon.
City's first win since January 3 eased them away from the relegation places
and took some heat of boss Peter Taylor.
City's average age shot up to 27 as Taylor made six changes and packed the
ranks with experience.
Michael Flynn, one of those older heads, was in the thick of it from the
start but the Bantams had an escape on 15 minutes when Chris Westwood's
header was kicked off the line by Luke O'Brien. Gareth Ainsworth's follow-up
was blocked in the goal-mouth.
The injury jinx that has plagued Taylor continued when James Hanson, who had
nearly scored from the game's first attack with a close-range flick, was
forced to limp out of the action early. He was followed off midway through
the second half by David Syers.
It was a dour opening 45 minutes but Wycombe were enjoying more of the ball
as time went on. They had a penalty shout ignored when Ben Strevens went
down under Lewis Hunt.
Lenny Pidgeley, preferred to Jon McLaughlin in goal, made a good save from
Stuart Lewis two minutes before the break.
City had a bit more about them after the re-start and the crowd, subdued
before then, roared into life. Tom Adeyemi's arrival had added some energy
to the home side.
Syers' departure in the 66th minute was another blow for City in a season
full of them but Valley Parade was sent into raptures three minutes later
when Ellison swept home O'Brien's cross.
Wycombe should have levelled when sub Matt McClure put a free header over.
City, though, stuck at it to put paid to the wretched recent run - and put
some much-needed daylight between them and the bottom two.
===========================
Mike Harrison's entry on the BT web site "Life's a pitch".
With just one solitary point from the past 6 games and that was at league leaders Chesterfield 2 weeks ago, the arrival of 2nd placed Wycombe to Valley Parade last Saturday should not have held any fear for the mightily inconsistent Bantams. Because the one thing that is predictable about Peter Taylor's men are that given lowly opposition (Macclesfield, Accrington, Barnet and Lincoln) then of course they'll struggle. But when a promotion chasing side comes to visit, well the chances are City will perform. City's last home win was against promotion chasing Bury and now another highly placed side have left Valley Parade empty handed.
Peter Taylor made many changes to the side today with Pidgeley returning in goal and Flynn, Ramsden and Hunt all starting a game for the first time in months. Add to this the debuts of Scott Dobie and Kevin Ellison and this was a very different looking City side that lost at home to Lincoln 11 days ago. Injuries to James Hanson in the first half and then David Syers in the second further changed the line up and with Tom Adeyemi replacing Jon Worthington at half time there was no room to manoeuvre if any of the players making a comeback today were to succumb to lack of match fitness.
With the score at 0-0 at half time and having played a fairly defensive 4-5-1 formation, Taylor changed this to 4-1-2-2-1 if that is indeed an accepted formation. But it seemed to work as City dominated most of the second half and they were duly rewarded for their efforts when the fans man of the match Luke O'Brien sent over a swerving cross from the left which was perfectly met by the debutant Ellison at the far post. As the game neared its conclusion, once again City sat back and defended their slender one goal advantage, but this time thanks to some woeful Wycombe attempts on goal, the Bantams survived to claim all three points. Much to the relief of the long suffering home fans who went home happy to be a Bradford City fan for a change.
www.lifesapitch.co.uk
===========================
Monday morning match report
Wing recruit urges new team-mates to show 110 per cent commitment in battle to win over fans
7:10am Monday 14th February 2011
By Simon Parker
City 1, Wycombe 0
It was the moment that proved City had found their stomach for the battle.
No, not the goal itself, though that was special enough as the excellent Luke O'Brien's cross was gleefully converted by new fans' favourite Kevin Ellison.
Rather it was the drop ball five minutes from the end as the collective nerves were jangling.
It has become a forgotten art in modern football. The one-on-one confrontation beneath the referee usually makes way for a gentleman's agreement over who's going to lump the ball towards the other side's goalkeeper.
But Ellison was having none of it. He convincingly won the face-off on halfway with Ben Strevens and then crunched his way through a follow-up challenge from Stuart Lewis, winning himself a foul in the process.
Valley Parade rose as one to cheer. A line had been drawn in the sand.
Ellison's first appearance had been just what it said on the tin. A healthy dollop of commitment and skill, mixed with a willingness to make it ugly and uncomfortable for the visitors.
Anyone still doubting Peter Taylor's assertion that the no-nonsense Rotherham winger was more suited to City's plight than the fleet-footed Omar Daley was won over by that thundering 50-50.
"The main thing about being a professional footballer is that you always give 110 per cent for the team," said Ellison afterwards.
"It's about hard work and that's what fans pay to see. I said to a few of the lads before the game that we need to get back to basics – be big, strong and in people's faces.
"The home crowd here are the best in the league. If they can get behind us and be the 12th man then we'll get out of this."
City's infuriating tendency to bloody the noses of the division's top dogs struck again; infuriating because they can't seem to do it to anyone below the top seven on a regular basis.
Just like Bury, their last win way back on January 3, Wycombe arrived at Valley Parade boasting one of the best away records with only two defeats from 12 on the road.
For much of a nondescript first half, that confidence was plain to see.
Taylor had packed the ranks with experience, as expected, but it was the oldest man on the field – 37-year-old Gareth Ainsworth – who possessed the surest touch during that opening period.
There were few incidents of note but Ainsworth had a goal-bound shot swallowed up after O'Brien had cleared off the line from Chris Westwood.
O'Brien put in another excellent shift at left back and linked well with Ellison all game. Dare we suggest that the youngster looked better for having a winger in front of him who was prepared to track back a lot more.
City's desire to get the result that had eluded them for the past six weeks was evident in many of Taylor's 'Dad's Army' line-up.
Scott Dobie, who along with Ellison took the tally of players for the season to 35, took a while to get up to speed. But his impact grew as the game wore on – and exemplified the spirit when tackling back in his own six-yard box to deny Strevens a certain tap-in.
Then there were the three long-term casualties all thrown in from the start. Michael Flynn had at least got three bench run-outs under his belt but Simon Ramsden and Lewis Hunt were straight in.
Ramsden, like Dobie, had some early rusty moments. Hunt, playing at centre half, escaped a convincing penalty shout but otherwise barely put a foot wrong.
The old heads at the back made a difference. City's average age had shot up to 27 with the six changes from the Lincoln collapse.
Lenny Pidgeley, who had celebrated that birthday last week, was the most surprising choice. Given Jon McLaughlin's form since his own recall, few would have expected his senior goalkeeping partner to get the nod.
But Pidgeley also did his bit with an athletic save from a Lewis half-volley a couple of minutes before the break. A goal then would surely have consigned City to another miserable afternoon.
Taylor used the half-time break to the maximum. Wycombe emerged from the tunnel a good five minutes before their hosts.
Jon Worthington was sacrificed so that Tom Adeyemi's younger legs could improve the tempo. Suddenly Ainsworth found himself with a lot less time and space to manoeuvre.
City's attack, which had looked toothless since James Hanson hobbled away in discomfort with an injured groin, began to find its edge.
Ellison was able to go on the front foot; Dobie was becoming a handful. City's belief grew and with it, the fans found their voice.
The loss of David Syers midway through the half was another hurdle that had to be negotiated. Ramsden slipped into midfield and Steve Williams, another straight off the sick bed, made his first appearance since that last win.
Three minutes later, the place exploded in relief. O'Brien collected Flynn's throw-in and whipped an inviting cross into the Wycombe goalmouth. Dobie strained but couldn't get there; Ellison, though, had followed it in all the way and delivered a confident finish.
Off came the shirt in a frenzied celebration; a personal dig at his mates who knock him for not scoring enough and a symbol to the Kop of the "all-in-it" togetherness of those on and off the pitch.
Hearts were in mouths when substitute Matt McClure looped a free header over City's bar. But Ellison then restored the collective nerve with that crunching drop ball.
He made a point of saluting all four sides of the ground at the final whistle. The fans were happy to stay behind and cheer him back.
Ellison's most significant contribution could turn out to be restoring that bond between the players and the crowd. Attendance: 10,897
===========================
Taylor insists pressure is just as intense
8:10am Monday 14th February 2011
By Simon Parker
City's first win for six weeks is no reason to switch off, they were warned today.
Saturday's victory – the first since January 3 – stretched the gap between the Bantams and the second relegation spot to six points. They also have games in hand on the bottom two.
But Peter Taylor insists the spotlight remains just as intense on himself and the team.
He said: "No, the pressure is not off at the minute. We should be doing better than 34 points.
"We've got to start grinding out a few more results like that, then all of a sudden we'll have a bit more confidence and people will see how well we can play. They've seen it in certain games but not enough.
"You look at Wycombe, who are a really good team, have had good results, are working hard and that's why they are having a good season.
"We need to get a few more wins, then we can hopefully get to that level."
Kevin Ellison, Omar Daley's replacement from Rotherham, scored the only goal on a memorable debut and became an instant hit with the Valley Parade fans.
Taylor said: "I'm pleased for Kevin. Any player wants the supporters to like him and I'm sure they love him at the moment.
"He and Scott Dobie haven't had many starts lately and they showed great fitness. They've got to keep it going now.
"Kevin can score and he can cross it and I think he showed that. He got more of the ball second half and linked really well with Luke O'Brien – and he scored a tremendous goal."
But City's first win for seven games was blighted by more injury problems. Both James Hanson (groin) and David Syers (hamstring) are likely to be out until next month.
Taylor had only just brought back long-term casualties Simon Ramsden, Michael Flynn and Lewis Hunt to beef up the team's experience.
The City chief admitted: "The injury front hasn't been that kind to us. James didn't play against Wycombe down there and I really felt he would show them how strong he is in the air.
"It was a bit of a killer for us to lose him so early. Now he's going to be out for two or three weeks – and it's the same with Syers."
Taylor added: "I felt the more experienced players certainly helped the performance. The people who were playing their first game for a long time showed great character.
"I was happy to win in any way. We needed the three points and, looking at the other results, it was very important."
===========================
Gillingham tickets on sale
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2292534,00.html?
Match tickets for the Bantams' trip to Gillingham are now on general sale from the Bantams Ticket Office.
Peter Taylor's men are scheduled to travel to the Priestfield Stadium on Saturday 5 March 2011.
The football club would like to inform supporters that the away section at the Priestfield Stadium is an UNCOVERED seating section.
Admission Prices:
Adults: £20
Senior Citizen: £16 (over 65)
Young Adult: £13 (16-21 yrs)
Juvenile: £9 (12-16)
Under 12: £6
Disabled: £20 (includes free carer) -
Supporters can also purchase tickets at Gillingham on the day although prices will be more expensive.
Admission Prices:
Adults: £23
Senior Citizen: £19
Young Adult: £16
Juvenile: £11
Under 12: £7
Disabled: £23
Further information on match tickets for this and away fixtures at Port Vale and Morecambe can be found by ringing the Ticket Office on (01274) 770012.
Away travel tickets are also on sale for City's trip to Gillingham priced at £30.00 each.
The official supporters' coach will depart from outside the Surridge Superstore at 9:00am prompt.
===========================
Raise money for BCFC youth department.
From the Official BCFC Website…
EMMERDALE EXTRAS REQUIRED
Posted on: Fri 11 Feb 2011
The Bantams are on the lookout for hundreds of City fans to play extras in a
sequence on ITV1 soap Emmerdale.
The Yorkshire-based show will be filming part of a forthcoming episode at
the Coral Windows Stadium in early March and they require the help of around
200 Bradford supporters to bring the scene to life.
Filming will take place between 8:00am and 6:00pm on Wednesday 2 March 2011
and supporters would need to be available for the whole duration of this
period.
The club will be on hand though to provide a hot buffet lunch, plus tea's
and coffee's during the day.
Any City supporters who would like to be involved are kindly asked to
register their interest through the Bantams' Director of Operations, David
Baldwin, via davidbaldwin@the-bantams.co.uk.
Fans can also register an interest in taking part by ringing the football
club direct on (01274) 773355.
All fans involved must be 16 or over to take part and would need to be
dressed in the same attire that they would normally wear to a City fixture
(i.e. hat, shirts, scarves).
For every supporter who acts as an extra, Emmerdale have also kindly agreed
to donate £5.00 to the youth department at Valley Parade.
===========================
CHILAKA ON LOAN TO HARROGATE TOWN
Striker Chibuzor Chilaka has joined Blue Square Bet North club Harrogate
Town on loan from NPower League Two neighbours Bradford City.
Chilaka, 24, a real powerhouse of a forward, started out with Rushden &
Diamonds' academy and then had spells with Notts County, Bridlington Town
and Leeds Carnegie before signing for Bradford City last August.
He recently signed a one-year contract with the Bantams but has been unable
to secure a regular berth in the first-team as he continues to learn his way
in professional football.
Earlier this season he spent a month out on loan with Evo-Stik League
Premier Division side Bradford Park Avenue.
===========================
Friday, February 11, 2011
Midweek news
Next fixture
L2 (H) v Wycombe Feb 12th 2011 K.O. 3.00pm
Fixture news
Macclesfield away game will now be played on Tuesday 5th April 2011
===========================
Taylor wants City to give fans hope
Posted on: Fri 11 Feb 2011
Peter Taylor will ask his Bantams side to not leave City fans disappointed when Wycombe Wanderers ride into town this weekend.
Taylor's side will start as second favourites against the high-flying Adams Park outfit but the Bantams boss says that's no reason for his players not to believe they can't win.
He said: "If I was a supporter, I would understandably find it totally unacceptable if I didn't see our players run around more than Wycombe.
"The players have to make sure that isn't the case then and if the ball goes for us as well, that would be a plus.
"I'm expecting us to show Wycombe how much we can play and how much we want to win."
Taylor admits he has his desired starting eleven for this Saturday's clash in his mind already, with the City boss set to go with experience for the visit of the Chairboys.
It remains to be seen whether Scott Dobie will finally be handed his first action in a City shirt, but fellow new boy Kevin Ellison is tipped to start.
Taylor added: "I know Kevin really well and he has the ability to play in a number of positions.
"He has a good left foot and can get some dangerous crosses in from that side, something which I think we have been missing lately.
"He can also pop up with some goals now and again, so I think the fans will like him."
===========================
Richard Eckersley has returned to Burnley after his 3 month loan spell at the club has now ended
...
Following Richard Eckersley's departure from the club, Mark Cullen has also
left, returning to parent club Hull City.
Cullen joined the Bantams on a one month loan and featured four times
without hitting the net.
===========================
TAYLOR URGES CALM AMIDST THE STORM
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Peter Taylor is pleading for calm heads as fans grow agitated with Bradford
City's current plight.
Taylor faces his old club Wycombe at Valley Parade on Saturday with the
pressure continuing to build at the bottom end of League Two.
Hereford and Macclesfield moved a point closer to City last night after
their 2-2 draw at Edgar Street.
Rumours were flying about Taylor's position last week when he met the two
chairmen in the wake of the 2-1 home loss to Lincoln.
A run of only one point from six games has dumped City in the mire. But
Taylor believes a sense of perspective is required.
He said: I look at the situation and when I came here on February 17, the
team had played 28 games and had 34 points. We've played 28 now and our
points total is 31.
"It's not a million miles away and I've not been here a year yet.
"When I joined, we were very confident we could kick on as a club. There's
no denying this season has been very disappointing and there are a lot of
reasons for that but I'm still confident we can start moving back up the
table."
Taylor was barracked by some sections of the crowd during the Lincoln game
and could face another rough ride if things don't go well this weekend.
But he can point to the example of Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler, who
has turned it round after fans were screaming for his head earlier in the
season. The Kent club resisted the calls and they are now pushing for the
play-offs.
Taylor added: "That's why people have to make the right decisions. People
out there, especially the younger supporters, are saying 'change the
manager' and all that rubbish but that's very dangerous. You have to keep a
level head. For the future of Bradford City, we need to be calm."
Meanwhile, youngsters Alex Flett and Dominic Rowe have been handed squad
numbers as a reward for their progress in the youth team.
Central midfielder Flett has also been an ever-present for the reserves
while tricky winger Rowe was instrumental in City's successful FA Youth Cup
run.
Youth manager David Wetherall said: "It's a nice pat on the back for them.
"It's a step forward, although this doesn't automatically get them where
they want to be this year, which is being given a pro contract."
===========================
Omar out Ellison In
Ellison fits the bill as Taylor draws up Bradford City battle plan
7:00am Friday 11th February 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Taylor thinks new capture Kevin Ellison is better suited to City's survival scrap than Omar Daley – but wanted to play them both.
The combative winger teams up with Taylor for the third time and goes straight into the side for tomorrow's crunch Valley Parade clash with Wycombe.
Ellison has joined City for the rest of the season, with Daley heading the other way to Rotherham. While both deals contain a call-back clause after the first month, it is likely to spell the end of the Jamaican's four-year stint at the club.
But while Daley's inconsistency has infuriated at times, Taylor revealed that he was not looking to push him out.
He said: "I spoke to Ronnie (Moore) about Kevin but that was it. He then came back to me about Omar.
"I would have loved both of them to be here but that was the only way round it so I accepted that.
"It was a tough decision and that's why managers like myself look as old as they do.
"I just felt that maybe Kevin would be better news for us at the minute than Omar. That's not having a go at anybody, both are very good players, but they are different styles."
City's lack of goals have been a major factor in their slide down the table and Taylor believes the left-footed Ellison can provide more ammunition for James Hanson, who has netted in the last two games.
"James is in good form and I want somebody to cross the ball more to use his strength.
"I know how exciting at times Omar can be but I know Kevin really well. He can play a couple of positions, gets crosses in and can score a goal. I think our crowd will quite like him. He gets in the opposition's faces, wins free-kicks and scores a few.
"He's also a really lively character round the place. I've said we are a quiet team who need some noisy ones.
"All of a sudden it's a much noisier camp with the experienced players, which is great, and Kevin definitely fits that bill. He will not be shy.
"He's out of contract in the summer and I'm sure he will be very interested in getting a permanent one here. It's up to him to come and show it."
Ellison has stirred up the Valley Parade crowd in the past with his spiky nature on the pitch. He doesn't mind that reputation as the opponent other clubs love to hate.
He said: "That's me all over and hopefully I can do the same in a Bradford shirt. I'm more than happy to take that title.
"I remember getting a bit of stick here last year but I hope the fans get behind me and the team now.
"I've swapped promotion at one end of the table for a tough battle at the other. But I've been there before (with Chester).
"I could have sat on my backside on the bench at Rotherham but it's all about playing week in, week out.
"I'm surprised to see Bradford where they are. Obviously there have been a few injuries but you see the squad they've got on paper and it's up there with the best in this league.
"Get those players back on the pitch and it won't be a problem and I'm happy to join in the fight."
The arrival of 31-year-old Ellison further tops up the average age of a side that Taylor has suddenly packed with experience.
The City boss has already planned his side and will face his former club with confidence.
"The team that will start is very capable of winning any match in League Two.
"I would find it totally unacceptable if I was a supporter and didn't see our players run around more than Wycombe. And if the ball goes for us as well, that would be a plus.
"I'm expecting us to show Wycombe how much we can play and how much we want to win."
===========================
From Bantamsfan.co.uk
ANDY TOD RETIRES TO JOIN POLICE
Former City defender/striker Andy Tod has been released by Scottish Division
two side Forfar Athletic this week so that he can begin his new career as a
Police officer at the age of 39.
Forfar boss Dick Campbell said: "Andy Tod has been a great servant to
football and a great captain of Forfar Athletic. He was worked hard
throughout his career and we wish him well in the Police."
Tod originally joined City on loan from Dunfermline Athletic in 2001 and
after scoring 4 goals in 12 games the move was made permanent and City
forked out £100k.
It wasn't long before City started having serious money problems and a
clause in his contract meant that Dunfermline would have been due an extra
payment from City if he had played one more game.
That led to him being loaned out to Hearts and Dundee United before he was
finally released in July 2003 and he re-joined Dunfermline.
L2 (H) v Wycombe Feb 12th 2011 K.O. 3.00pm
Fixture news
Macclesfield away game will now be played on Tuesday 5th April 2011
===========================
Taylor wants City to give fans hope
Posted on: Fri 11 Feb 2011
Peter Taylor will ask his Bantams side to not leave City fans disappointed when Wycombe Wanderers ride into town this weekend.
Taylor's side will start as second favourites against the high-flying Adams Park outfit but the Bantams boss says that's no reason for his players not to believe they can't win.
He said: "If I was a supporter, I would understandably find it totally unacceptable if I didn't see our players run around more than Wycombe.
"The players have to make sure that isn't the case then and if the ball goes for us as well, that would be a plus.
"I'm expecting us to show Wycombe how much we can play and how much we want to win."
Taylor admits he has his desired starting eleven for this Saturday's clash in his mind already, with the City boss set to go with experience for the visit of the Chairboys.
It remains to be seen whether Scott Dobie will finally be handed his first action in a City shirt, but fellow new boy Kevin Ellison is tipped to start.
Taylor added: "I know Kevin really well and he has the ability to play in a number of positions.
"He has a good left foot and can get some dangerous crosses in from that side, something which I think we have been missing lately.
"He can also pop up with some goals now and again, so I think the fans will like him."
===========================
Richard Eckersley has returned to Burnley after his 3 month loan spell at the club has now ended
...
Following Richard Eckersley's departure from the club, Mark Cullen has also
left, returning to parent club Hull City.
Cullen joined the Bantams on a one month loan and featured four times
without hitting the net.
===========================
TAYLOR URGES CALM AMIDST THE STORM
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Peter Taylor is pleading for calm heads as fans grow agitated with Bradford
City's current plight.
Taylor faces his old club Wycombe at Valley Parade on Saturday with the
pressure continuing to build at the bottom end of League Two.
Hereford and Macclesfield moved a point closer to City last night after
their 2-2 draw at Edgar Street.
Rumours were flying about Taylor's position last week when he met the two
chairmen in the wake of the 2-1 home loss to Lincoln.
A run of only one point from six games has dumped City in the mire. But
Taylor believes a sense of perspective is required.
He said: I look at the situation and when I came here on February 17, the
team had played 28 games and had 34 points. We've played 28 now and our
points total is 31.
"It's not a million miles away and I've not been here a year yet.
"When I joined, we were very confident we could kick on as a club. There's
no denying this season has been very disappointing and there are a lot of
reasons for that but I'm still confident we can start moving back up the
table."
Taylor was barracked by some sections of the crowd during the Lincoln game
and could face another rough ride if things don't go well this weekend.
But he can point to the example of Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler, who
has turned it round after fans were screaming for his head earlier in the
season. The Kent club resisted the calls and they are now pushing for the
play-offs.
Taylor added: "That's why people have to make the right decisions. People
out there, especially the younger supporters, are saying 'change the
manager' and all that rubbish but that's very dangerous. You have to keep a
level head. For the future of Bradford City, we need to be calm."
Meanwhile, youngsters Alex Flett and Dominic Rowe have been handed squad
numbers as a reward for their progress in the youth team.
Central midfielder Flett has also been an ever-present for the reserves
while tricky winger Rowe was instrumental in City's successful FA Youth Cup
run.
Youth manager David Wetherall said: "It's a nice pat on the back for them.
"It's a step forward, although this doesn't automatically get them where
they want to be this year, which is being given a pro contract."
===========================
Omar out Ellison In
Ellison fits the bill as Taylor draws up Bradford City battle plan
7:00am Friday 11th February 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Taylor thinks new capture Kevin Ellison is better suited to City's survival scrap than Omar Daley – but wanted to play them both.
The combative winger teams up with Taylor for the third time and goes straight into the side for tomorrow's crunch Valley Parade clash with Wycombe.
Ellison has joined City for the rest of the season, with Daley heading the other way to Rotherham. While both deals contain a call-back clause after the first month, it is likely to spell the end of the Jamaican's four-year stint at the club.
But while Daley's inconsistency has infuriated at times, Taylor revealed that he was not looking to push him out.
He said: "I spoke to Ronnie (Moore) about Kevin but that was it. He then came back to me about Omar.
"I would have loved both of them to be here but that was the only way round it so I accepted that.
"It was a tough decision and that's why managers like myself look as old as they do.
"I just felt that maybe Kevin would be better news for us at the minute than Omar. That's not having a go at anybody, both are very good players, but they are different styles."
City's lack of goals have been a major factor in their slide down the table and Taylor believes the left-footed Ellison can provide more ammunition for James Hanson, who has netted in the last two games.
"James is in good form and I want somebody to cross the ball more to use his strength.
"I know how exciting at times Omar can be but I know Kevin really well. He can play a couple of positions, gets crosses in and can score a goal. I think our crowd will quite like him. He gets in the opposition's faces, wins free-kicks and scores a few.
"He's also a really lively character round the place. I've said we are a quiet team who need some noisy ones.
"All of a sudden it's a much noisier camp with the experienced players, which is great, and Kevin definitely fits that bill. He will not be shy.
"He's out of contract in the summer and I'm sure he will be very interested in getting a permanent one here. It's up to him to come and show it."
Ellison has stirred up the Valley Parade crowd in the past with his spiky nature on the pitch. He doesn't mind that reputation as the opponent other clubs love to hate.
He said: "That's me all over and hopefully I can do the same in a Bradford shirt. I'm more than happy to take that title.
"I remember getting a bit of stick here last year but I hope the fans get behind me and the team now.
"I've swapped promotion at one end of the table for a tough battle at the other. But I've been there before (with Chester).
"I could have sat on my backside on the bench at Rotherham but it's all about playing week in, week out.
"I'm surprised to see Bradford where they are. Obviously there have been a few injuries but you see the squad they've got on paper and it's up there with the best in this league.
"Get those players back on the pitch and it won't be a problem and I'm happy to join in the fight."
The arrival of 31-year-old Ellison further tops up the average age of a side that Taylor has suddenly packed with experience.
The City boss has already planned his side and will face his former club with confidence.
"The team that will start is very capable of winning any match in League Two.
"I would find it totally unacceptable if I was a supporter and didn't see our players run around more than Wycombe. And if the ball goes for us as well, that would be a plus.
"I'm expecting us to show Wycombe how much we can play and how much we want to win."
===========================
From Bantamsfan.co.uk
ANDY TOD RETIRES TO JOIN POLICE
Former City defender/striker Andy Tod has been released by Scottish Division
two side Forfar Athletic this week so that he can begin his new career as a
Police officer at the age of 39.
Forfar boss Dick Campbell said: "Andy Tod has been a great servant to
football and a great captain of Forfar Athletic. He was worked hard
throughout his career and we wish him well in the Police."
Tod originally joined City on loan from Dunfermline Athletic in 2001 and
after scoring 4 goals in 12 games the move was made permanent and City
forked out £100k.
It wasn't long before City started having serious money problems and a
clause in his contract meant that Dunfermline would have been due an extra
payment from City if he had played one more game.
That led to him being loaned out to Hearts and Dundee United before he was
finally released in July 2003 and he re-joined Dunfermline.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
L2 (H) v Lincoln City L1-2 Feb 1st 2011 K.O. 7.45pm
Next fixture
L2 (A) v Macclesfield Feb 5th 2011 K.O. 3.00pm
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
===========================
Match info
NPower League Two
Bradford C (1) 1 Hanson 4
Lincoln C (1) 2 Facey 42, McCallum 79
Att: 10,543
City
1. Jon McLaughlin
29. Richard Eckersley
16. Shane Duff
6. Luke Oliver
3. Luke O'Brien
19. Jonathan Worthington (67)
20. Tom Adeyemi
23. Dave Syers
17. James Hanson
9. Gareth Evans
7. Omar Daley (82)
Subs
24. Chris Elliot (GK)
2. Simon Ramsden
4. Michael Flynn (67)
15. Lewis Hunt
25. Chibuzor Chilaka
28. Robbie Threlfall
30. Mark Cullen (82)
Lincoln
24. Trevor Carson
28. Gavin Hoyte
40. Patrick Kanyuka (46)
6. Daniel Hone
23. Stephen Hunt (90)
16. Julian Kelly
14. Josh O'Keefe
15. Luke Howell
9. Gavin McCallum
18. Delroy Facey (77)
29. Ashley Grimes
Subs
20. Paul Musselwhite (GK)
2. Paul Green
10. Drewe Broughton (77)
17. Albert Jarrett
31. Ali Fuseini (46)
39. Scott Spencer (90)
Stats
Limpish - Imps
2 Shots On Target 4
5 Shots Off Target 7
8 Fouls (Conceded) 5
10 Corners 4
0 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0
===========================
By Simon Parker »
Peter Taylor is still the Bantams boss, it was confirmed this afternoon (Wednesday).
Taylor met with City's two chairmen today, sparking rumours that his position was under threat.
But Mark Lawn said: "We had a meeting and Peter is still the manager."
City have lost five of the last six games, taking only one point from 18.
===========================
Match report
Old foe Facey wipes out Hanson opener as Taylor's men mess up flying start
6:50am Wednesday 2nd February 2011
By Simon Parker
City 1, Lincoln 2
Lincoln piled on the agony for City and Peter Taylor to continue their tortuous run.
On a night billed as a 'must win', given the perilous league table, the Bantams were condemned to a fifth defeat in six games.
You could not have imagined that outcome for most of the first half as City took matters by the scruff of the neck.
But they never found that second goal to reinforce their dominance – and paid the huge price when Lincoln came fighting back.
Taylor came under flak from some of the crowd afterwards. These are increasingly uncomfortable times for all concerned.
Saturday's result had temporarily stopped the rot after four defeats but that did not lessen the significance of the first home outing for a month.
Joint-chairman Julian Rhodes underlined that in his programme notes, calling it a game "we simply need to win". Survival, he stated, was imperative – as if anyone had to be told.
Taylor had been impressed enough with the Chesterfield display to keep the same formation and ten of the same names. The only change was a forced one because of Leon Osborne's hamstring, so Omar Daley was back in from the start.
City faced a Lincoln side unrecognisable from their last meeting exactly a month earlier. Boss Steve Tilson had been working overtime in the transfer window – just five of his first XI had begun the Sincil Bank game.
Tilson's efforts had earned three straight wins to lift the Imps out of immediate relegation danger and within three points of their hosts.
But the visitors were forced into a late reshuffle when centre half Adam Watts got injured in the warm-up – and City struck before they had time to settle with a goal after six minutes.
Gareth Evans lifted the ball down the left flank to David Syers, who sized up his cross and then thumped in a low pass which James Hanson tucked home.
It was just the beginning the home side wanted and the injection of confidence was evident as Luke O'Brien whipped in another dangerous ball which Danny Hone just managed to turn behind.
The early feelgood factor increased with Simon Ramsden's appearance for a run along the touchline, which drew applause from the Kop.
Syers was instrumental in everything going forward and could have had another goal when Hanson returned the compliment on 25 minutes but his well-struck shot was covered by Trevor Carson.
Old adversary Delroy Facey volleyed high into the crowd but Lincoln had shown little.
City were totting up the corners and Carson was lucky to escape after spilling Daley's centre in a congested six-yard box.
But Lincoln almost stole an equaliser when debutant Patrick Kanyuka, the late replacement for Watts, stretched to reach Luke Howell's free-kick and steered it over the bar.
It was a warning for City, who responded with another Syers-inspired move. He fed Daley inside the box and the Jamaican checked and rolled it back to Tom Adeyemi, who got underneath his shot.
Evans just failed to control a ball bursting through and Hanson headed wide from the seventh City corner of the half.
O'Brien was getting upfield so frequently, he was almost operating as an out-and-out left winger.
But the bubble was suddenly burst two minutes before the break with a Lincoln equaliser against the run of play.
Again it was a goal that should have been avoided. Nobody picked up Facey as Gavin Hoyte floated a cross into the box and the centre forward directed his free header past Jon McLaughlin.
Luke Oliver promptly produced a timely block from Gavin McCallum, before the Canadian midfielder got in a key defensive touch of his own to deflect Syers' drive away.
But having dominated for much of the first half, City headed to the dressing room back on level terms and facing another test of character to lift it again.
Lincoln's tails were up and Josh O'Keefe forced a fine diving save from McLaughlin five minutes after the restart.
Anxiety was creeping into the Valley Parade air and the earlier swagger had vanished from City's play.
McCallum was coming more into it on Lincoln's left flank and fired across goal. Daley hit back with a swivelling run past three men across the edge of the box before blazing harmlessly into the stand.
It had become a very different game and the Imps, having played second fiddle in the first half, were clearly eyeing a fourth success on the bounce. McCallum eluded Richard Eckersley again but Oliver nipped the danger in the bud before he could pick out Ashley Grimes.
Lincoln were asking the questions but O'Brien responded with a sensational piece of individual skill.
The left back nutmegged both McCallum and Hoyte on a jinking run which ended with his curling effort just beating the far post. It would have been some goal.
Michael Flynn arrived for the tiring Jon Worthington midway through the half and he took up an attacking role alongside Hanson.
But McLaughlin had to be alert to foil Grimes from Facey's set-up, blocking with his knees and then flicking the loose ball behind.
Then the nightmare happened with nine minutes to go. Syers was knocked down in midfield and Lincoln tore forward on the break in numbers.
Grimes drilled in a fierce drive which McLaughlin parried out to McCallum, who hammered it back with interest into the unguarded net.
The goal prompted the first strains of "we want Taylor out" from the Kop as the frustration grew again.
City had the late chance to equalise but Syers headed past the far post from an Evans corner. There was no escape and the crowd's verdict at the final whistle was damning.
Attendance: 10,543
===========================
Taylor now even more determined to turn things around as he dismisses sack rumours
8:10am Thursday 3rd February 2011
Exclusive By Simon Parker
Defiant Peter Taylor today declared himself ready for a battle after dismissing speculation that he was about to be sacked.
Rumours were rife that Taylor's tenure at Valley Parade could be coming to an end.
He met joint-chairmen Julian Rhodes and Mark Lawn for talks yesterday afternoon – and emerged more desperate than ever to halt City's plunge towards the danger zone.
Taylor, who was jeered by some sections of the crowd against Lincoln on Tuesday, said: "I thought we had a very good meeting, to be honest, and ironed out a few things.
"I knew the rumours were happening but I don't know where they came from. I've been honest about it and I said on Tuesday I understand the fans' reaction and their frustration.
"I know our position is nowhere near good enough at the minute and the teams behind us have games in hand.
"It's extremely disappointing what's happened with our season, with the team and the results. I understand all that.
"But it makes me extremely determined to turn things round. I'm totally blinkered about the job and I want to get this right. It's going to be a massive test but I am up for it."
City have been dragged into trouble after collecting only one point in six games. They face another critical afternoon at fellow strugglers Macclesfield on Saturday.
Taylor is ready to wheel out the old guard and use all the experience at his disposal in the squad.
Michael Flynn, Simon Ramsden and Lewis Hunt could all start at Moss Rose – as well as new signing Scott Dobie.
It will be a gamble throwing in the three long-term absentees because of their lack of match fitness. Flynn has come off the bench for the last three matches but Ramsden and Hunt are yet to feature since getting injured early in the season.
But Taylor believes it is a risk worth taking in City's current predicament.
He said: "It's not easy to pick the chins up and that's why we need the experienced boys at the minute. They will have been through this situation before.
"We need the reliable players; the ones we can trust to get us out of this problem. I just hope that we can get them fit.
"Some of the people we are talking about are not up to 90 minutes and we might have to make changes through the game.
"But we know it's a massive game because of the league table and it might be the time to go down the experienced route."
===========================
L2 (A) v Macclesfield Feb 5th 2011 K.O. 3.00pm
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
===========================
Match info
NPower League Two
Bradford C (1) 1 Hanson 4
Lincoln C (1) 2 Facey 42, McCallum 79
Att: 10,543
City
1. Jon McLaughlin
29. Richard Eckersley
16. Shane Duff
6. Luke Oliver
3. Luke O'Brien
19. Jonathan Worthington (67)
20. Tom Adeyemi
23. Dave Syers
17. James Hanson
9. Gareth Evans
7. Omar Daley (82)
Subs
24. Chris Elliot (GK)
2. Simon Ramsden
4. Michael Flynn (67)
15. Lewis Hunt
25. Chibuzor Chilaka
28. Robbie Threlfall
30. Mark Cullen (82)
Lincoln
24. Trevor Carson
28. Gavin Hoyte
40. Patrick Kanyuka (46)
6. Daniel Hone
23. Stephen Hunt (90)
16. Julian Kelly
14. Josh O'Keefe
15. Luke Howell
9. Gavin McCallum
18. Delroy Facey (77)
29. Ashley Grimes
Subs
20. Paul Musselwhite (GK)
2. Paul Green
10. Drewe Broughton (77)
17. Albert Jarrett
31. Ali Fuseini (46)
39. Scott Spencer (90)
Stats
Limpish - Imps
2 Shots On Target 4
5 Shots Off Target 7
8 Fouls (Conceded) 5
10 Corners 4
0 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0
===========================
By Simon Parker »
Peter Taylor is still the Bantams boss, it was confirmed this afternoon (Wednesday).
Taylor met with City's two chairmen today, sparking rumours that his position was under threat.
But Mark Lawn said: "We had a meeting and Peter is still the manager."
City have lost five of the last six games, taking only one point from 18.
===========================
Match report
Old foe Facey wipes out Hanson opener as Taylor's men mess up flying start
6:50am Wednesday 2nd February 2011
By Simon Parker
City 1, Lincoln 2
Lincoln piled on the agony for City and Peter Taylor to continue their tortuous run.
On a night billed as a 'must win', given the perilous league table, the Bantams were condemned to a fifth defeat in six games.
You could not have imagined that outcome for most of the first half as City took matters by the scruff of the neck.
But they never found that second goal to reinforce their dominance – and paid the huge price when Lincoln came fighting back.
Taylor came under flak from some of the crowd afterwards. These are increasingly uncomfortable times for all concerned.
Saturday's result had temporarily stopped the rot after four defeats but that did not lessen the significance of the first home outing for a month.
Joint-chairman Julian Rhodes underlined that in his programme notes, calling it a game "we simply need to win". Survival, he stated, was imperative – as if anyone had to be told.
Taylor had been impressed enough with the Chesterfield display to keep the same formation and ten of the same names. The only change was a forced one because of Leon Osborne's hamstring, so Omar Daley was back in from the start.
City faced a Lincoln side unrecognisable from their last meeting exactly a month earlier. Boss Steve Tilson had been working overtime in the transfer window – just five of his first XI had begun the Sincil Bank game.
Tilson's efforts had earned three straight wins to lift the Imps out of immediate relegation danger and within three points of their hosts.
But the visitors were forced into a late reshuffle when centre half Adam Watts got injured in the warm-up – and City struck before they had time to settle with a goal after six minutes.
Gareth Evans lifted the ball down the left flank to David Syers, who sized up his cross and then thumped in a low pass which James Hanson tucked home.
It was just the beginning the home side wanted and the injection of confidence was evident as Luke O'Brien whipped in another dangerous ball which Danny Hone just managed to turn behind.
The early feelgood factor increased with Simon Ramsden's appearance for a run along the touchline, which drew applause from the Kop.
Syers was instrumental in everything going forward and could have had another goal when Hanson returned the compliment on 25 minutes but his well-struck shot was covered by Trevor Carson.
Old adversary Delroy Facey volleyed high into the crowd but Lincoln had shown little.
City were totting up the corners and Carson was lucky to escape after spilling Daley's centre in a congested six-yard box.
But Lincoln almost stole an equaliser when debutant Patrick Kanyuka, the late replacement for Watts, stretched to reach Luke Howell's free-kick and steered it over the bar.
It was a warning for City, who responded with another Syers-inspired move. He fed Daley inside the box and the Jamaican checked and rolled it back to Tom Adeyemi, who got underneath his shot.
Evans just failed to control a ball bursting through and Hanson headed wide from the seventh City corner of the half.
O'Brien was getting upfield so frequently, he was almost operating as an out-and-out left winger.
But the bubble was suddenly burst two minutes before the break with a Lincoln equaliser against the run of play.
Again it was a goal that should have been avoided. Nobody picked up Facey as Gavin Hoyte floated a cross into the box and the centre forward directed his free header past Jon McLaughlin.
Luke Oliver promptly produced a timely block from Gavin McCallum, before the Canadian midfielder got in a key defensive touch of his own to deflect Syers' drive away.
But having dominated for much of the first half, City headed to the dressing room back on level terms and facing another test of character to lift it again.
Lincoln's tails were up and Josh O'Keefe forced a fine diving save from McLaughlin five minutes after the restart.
Anxiety was creeping into the Valley Parade air and the earlier swagger had vanished from City's play.
McCallum was coming more into it on Lincoln's left flank and fired across goal. Daley hit back with a swivelling run past three men across the edge of the box before blazing harmlessly into the stand.
It had become a very different game and the Imps, having played second fiddle in the first half, were clearly eyeing a fourth success on the bounce. McCallum eluded Richard Eckersley again but Oliver nipped the danger in the bud before he could pick out Ashley Grimes.
Lincoln were asking the questions but O'Brien responded with a sensational piece of individual skill.
The left back nutmegged both McCallum and Hoyte on a jinking run which ended with his curling effort just beating the far post. It would have been some goal.
Michael Flynn arrived for the tiring Jon Worthington midway through the half and he took up an attacking role alongside Hanson.
But McLaughlin had to be alert to foil Grimes from Facey's set-up, blocking with his knees and then flicking the loose ball behind.
Then the nightmare happened with nine minutes to go. Syers was knocked down in midfield and Lincoln tore forward on the break in numbers.
Grimes drilled in a fierce drive which McLaughlin parried out to McCallum, who hammered it back with interest into the unguarded net.
The goal prompted the first strains of "we want Taylor out" from the Kop as the frustration grew again.
City had the late chance to equalise but Syers headed past the far post from an Evans corner. There was no escape and the crowd's verdict at the final whistle was damning.
Attendance: 10,543
===========================
Taylor now even more determined to turn things around as he dismisses sack rumours
8:10am Thursday 3rd February 2011
Exclusive By Simon Parker
Defiant Peter Taylor today declared himself ready for a battle after dismissing speculation that he was about to be sacked.
Rumours were rife that Taylor's tenure at Valley Parade could be coming to an end.
He met joint-chairmen Julian Rhodes and Mark Lawn for talks yesterday afternoon – and emerged more desperate than ever to halt City's plunge towards the danger zone.
Taylor, who was jeered by some sections of the crowd against Lincoln on Tuesday, said: "I thought we had a very good meeting, to be honest, and ironed out a few things.
"I knew the rumours were happening but I don't know where they came from. I've been honest about it and I said on Tuesday I understand the fans' reaction and their frustration.
"I know our position is nowhere near good enough at the minute and the teams behind us have games in hand.
"It's extremely disappointing what's happened with our season, with the team and the results. I understand all that.
"But it makes me extremely determined to turn things round. I'm totally blinkered about the job and I want to get this right. It's going to be a massive test but I am up for it."
City have been dragged into trouble after collecting only one point in six games. They face another critical afternoon at fellow strugglers Macclesfield on Saturday.
Taylor is ready to wheel out the old guard and use all the experience at his disposal in the squad.
Michael Flynn, Simon Ramsden and Lewis Hunt could all start at Moss Rose – as well as new signing Scott Dobie.
It will be a gamble throwing in the three long-term absentees because of their lack of match fitness. Flynn has come off the bench for the last three matches but Ramsden and Hunt are yet to feature since getting injured early in the season.
But Taylor believes it is a risk worth taking in City's current predicament.
He said: "It's not easy to pick the chins up and that's why we need the experienced boys at the minute. They will have been through this situation before.
"We need the reliable players; the ones we can trust to get us out of this problem. I just hope that we can get them fit.
"Some of the people we are talking about are not up to 90 minutes and we might have to make changes through the game.
"But we know it's a massive game because of the league table and it might be the time to go down the experienced route."
===========================
Monday, January 31, 2011
L2 D2-2 (A) v Chesterfield January 29 2011. K.O. 3:00PM
Next fixture
L2 (H) v Lincoln City Feb 1st 2011 K.O. 7.45pm
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
===========================
Match stats
Chesterfield: Lee, Robertson, Ford (Vidal, 46 ) , Breckin, Niven (Bowery, 85 ) , Whitaker, Allott, Mattis, Lester
(Smalley, 52 ) , Talbot, Davies
Subs not used: Morris,Griffiths,Lowry,Redmond,
Goals : Whitaker 11 Bowery 90
Bradford: McLaughlan, Duff, Oliver, Eckersley, O'Brien, Worthington ( Flynn, 79 ) , Osborne ( Daley, 36 ) ,
Adeyemi, Syers, Evans, Hanson
Subs not used: Speight, Threlfall, Cullen, Elliott, Hunt,
Goals: Syers 12 Hanson 53
Bookings: Smalley (Chesterfield)
Attendance: 7556
Referee: Graham Scott (Oxfordshire)
Spireites STAT ATTACK Bantams
61% Time of Poss. 39%
5 Shots On Target 4
6 Shots Off Target 1
6 Fouls (Conceded) 8
7 Corners 6
1 Yellow Cards 0
0 Red Cards 0
===========================
Match report
Last-gasp leveller leaves Bantams with mixed emotions
7:30am Monday 31st January 2011
By Simon Parker
Chesterfield 2 Bradford City 2
Well they couldn't quite "do a Rochdale" as the lads in the dressing room call it.
A win at the new b2net Stadium would have been every bit as impressive as Peter Taylor's debut victory at Spotland
last March.
And they so nearly pulled it off.
But when the head shaking over Chester-field's late, late leveller subsides, City and their magnificently vocal
travelling fans can acknowledge a heartening afternoon.
At least we can see a chink of light in that black cloud that has parked above Valley Parade in recent weeks.
It could have been brighter; it should have been brighter had City dealt with that final stoppage-time cross as
they had done with most of its predecessors.
But after four losses on the spin, a point's a point; especially against the team with the division's best home
record.
Chesterfield don't just score in every game at their new home. They also usually win them.
Only three of the previous 13 visitors had left with any reward. So Saturday's draw should not be underestimated.
Of course, it will only mean something if City follow it up with the right result against Lincoln tomorrow.
The Imps themselves have won three in a row. But then Chesterfield were unbeaten in seven – and had not conceded in
the last three.
James Hanson, whose header for so long looked like being City's winner, hopes a line has been drawn in the sand
after all the recent misery.
Hanson said: "You expect to hold on when you're coming to the last ten minutes 2-1 up. We thought we had done but
didn't deal with that ball in the end and got punished.
"We're all gutted but it's still a great point. It's what we needed after the back-to-back defeats.
"We worked extremely hard and the gaffer was always confident we'd get something. Chesterfield score a lot of goals
but they can also concede.
"We haven't been scoring many but he said we could cause them some problems and I think we did that.
"It's a big week for us and this is a good start. We're not going into training on Monday morning feeling down, as
we have done in the last two or three weeks."
The home fans crowed "You're getting sacked in the morning" as Taylor's team struggled to get out their own half in
the opening exchanges.
The manager responded, as always, with sarcastic applause but must have feared the worst when Chesterfield struck
the first blow in the tenth minute.
Jack Lester produced his one moment of note in an otherwise disinterested display, teasing enough of an opening to
supply left winger Danny Whitaker for a sweet finish.
We all settled in for a very long afternoon.
But City came straight back at them. Hanson was foiled by the agility of one-time Oakworth Junior Tommy Lee before
the big man's presence played a significant part in the equaliser.
Intended target Hanson missed Leon Osborne's cross but his dive took Ian Breckin with him and deceived the home
defence, leaving David Syers on his own to half-volley his eighth goal of the campaign.
Chances were swapped at either end. Gareth Evans and Osborne found good positions for City, while Luke Oliver
pulled off an inch-perfect tackle on Craig Davies in the away box.
City's performance was chalk and cheese compared with the last Saturday outing at Oxford a fortnight earlier. There
had been good moments against Crewe but this time they put it all together.
A solid back four kept the clamp on free-scoring Davies and Lester, overseen by Jon Worthington in the holding
role. What a useful acquisition he's going to be when fully up to match speed and fitness.
Worthington's calming presence gave Syers and Tom Adeyemi scope to bomb up and down alongside him, backing up a
front three boosted by Hanson's aerial control over Breckin.
City's attacking edge improved further when Omar Daley replaced the injured Osborne before half-time. Even though
Chesterfield spotted the danger by bringing on quicker right back Javan Vidal at the break, Daley gave them a run
for their money with every touch.
Vidal was flailing in his slipstream when Daley's sprint and cross went unrewarded as nobody had gambled at the
near post.
But Hanson was in exactly the right place for the right ball eight minutes into the second half.
He was also right to applaud the contribution from Evans in the build-up after it seemed that City's best chance
had just gone begging.
Adeyemi burst into the box but narrowly failed to reach Hanson's knockdown from a cross by Luke O'Brien. But Evans
refused to let the opportunity disappear, rescuing possession on the touchline and delivering the sort of cross
that Hanson dreams about.
"I knew it was mine as soon as he put it up there," smiled Hanson. "It was a great ball in from Evo. I've been
asking them for a while to hang it up in a good area where I can attack like that.
"I was quite disappointed not to get another one after that from OB's cross. I just mistimed my jump.
"But playing like we did should bring confidence back to the attacking players. If we can go to the leaders and
score a couple then we should be able to take that forward."
City inevitably got pushed further and further back as Chesterfield threw everything at an equaliser.
Jon McLaughlin saved from Mark Allott and Michael Flynn arrived on the pitch in the nick of time to cut out a
dangerous cross from Drew Talbot. Sub Deane Smalley then blew a glorious chance by skying a free header from eight
yards. City's three-point mission looked complete.
But then Gregor Robertson pinged in one last centre, City failed to react to Breckin's flick-on and Jordan Bowery –
who'd been on the pitch for less than ten minutes – found room to swivel and shoot past McLaughlin.
===========================
Dobie signs for Bradford City to end of season
7:18pm Monday 31st January 2011
By Simon Parker
Bradford City tonight confirmed St Johnstone striker Scott Dobie had signed on loan until the end of the season,
although the deal is subject to international clearance.
It is unclear whether Dobie will be able to play for City in tomorrow night's League Two game against Lincoln at
Valley Parade.
Dobie, 32, a former Scotland international, has played for West Brom, Nottingham Forest and Carlisle and has racked
up 399 league appearances.
===========================
Baldwin: Let's hear an encore from the Bantams fans
7:36pm Monday 31st January 2011
By Simon Parker
City are calling on Valley Parade's 12th man to pull out all the stops against Lincoln tomorrow night.
The fans were in superb voice in Saturday's battling draw with leaders Chesterfield.
Now the club hope that backing can be replicated for the Lincoln showdown.
Director of operations David Baldwin said: "The away crowd on Saturday had a very positive contribution to the
outcome and really motivated the players. Even when we went 1-0 down, they kept going and that support and
enthusiasm rubbed off on the pitch.
"It would be great if we could emulate that at home tomorrow.
"If we don't get off to the best start, I really hope the fans will stick behind the team again like that because
it can make such a difference."
Baldwin admitted the City hierarchy were blown away by the constant noise of the away supporters at the b2net
Stadium.
"I nearly jumped on the radio at half-time to say a big thank you to our fans," he added. "Regardless of the
result, they were absolutely magnificent."
Three straight wins have lifted Lincoln to within three points of their hosts – and the Imps have three games in
hand.
Baldwin said: "It's a very important game given the league position.
"We're playing a team in a bit of form and we need to use anything we can in our favour. That's why the 12th man
can have a real impact.
"We're all in this together. We've got fantastic support and we should use that to our advantage."
===========================
Point at leaders feels more like a defeat, admits Bantams boss Taylor
7:50am Monday 31st January 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Taylor admitted he felt for his players after watching two points snatched from City's grasp at Chesterfield.
The Bantams snapped their four-game losing run with a stirring effort against the leaders.
But Jordan Bowery's stoppage-time equaliser cost them the chance to put some daylight on the bottom two ahead of
this week's clashes with Lincoln and Macclesfield.
Sympathetic Taylor said: "I'm really disappointed for them. I had a little bit of a pop over the second goal but I
really feel for the players.
"They worked their socks off for everyone – themselves, the supporters, the club, everybody.
"It does feel a bit like a defeat but there were a lot more pluses out of it. The performance was decent and we
scored two against the leaders.
"I thought we carried on from Tuesday night (against Crewe) and we covered the ground. If we keep doing that, we'll
be hard to play against.
"Hopefully we can kick on tomorrow night."
City, who lost Leon Osborne with a hamstring injury in the first half, hit back quickly from going a goal down. Top
scorer David Syers levelled with his eighth of the campaign before James Hanson's header had them eyeing an
unexpected victory.
Taylor added: "When you concede (first) against the league leaders, there's the chance you could go on and lose by
four or five.
"But we showed good character and got back at the right time, which may have unsettled them a little bit.
"It was a good game after that. You can see why Chesterfield have done well but I think we've shown at times we can
be a very good away from home team by breaking out with the athletes we have."
Jon Worthington again made a difference in midfield and Omar Daley's pace caused plenty of problems after he
replaced Osborne.
The Jamaican should be back in the starting line-up to face the in-form Imps.
"I thought Omar was really exciting," said Taylor. "He causes some problems.
"Our crossing in the final third was better because we got the ball in a little bit earlier. Gareth Evans put in a
tremendous ball for Hanson with the second goal.
"When you work with the players every day, you know they can do it.
"That's where it's even more upsetting and frustrating when they don't perform.
"But they are good, caring lads who want to do well. You've always got a chance with an honest squad."
===========================
===========================
BBC Coverage of transfer deadline day
1501: DONE DEAL Forget Stamford Bridge, it's all happening at Sincil Bank at the monment. Following their extension
of Gavin Hoyte's loan deal earlier, BBC Lincolnshire reports that the Imps have signed striker Scott Spencer on a
free transfer until the end of the season following his departure from Southend last week, and they have also
snapped up ex-Millwall man Ali Fuseini, who has signed until 2012. Fuseini had recently been playing for Lewes in
the Blue Square South.
===========================
===========================
DEATH OF FORMER CITY KEEPER
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Former Bradford City goalkeeper David Knowles has died, aged 69, after a
long illness.
Knowles, born in Halifax, played 21 games for the club during the 1966-1967
season. He later became postmaster at Oakenshaw.
===========================
Friday, January 28, 2011
L2 L1-2 (A) v Crewe A. January 25 2011. K.O. 7:45PM
Next fixture
L2 (A) v Chesterfield January 29 2011. K.O. 3:00PM
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
===========================
Match stats
Crewe: Phillips, Dugdale, Ada, Blanchett, Tootle, Bell, Murphy, Westwood, Donaldson (sent off 46), Miller (Powell, 80 ) , Moore
Subs not used: Grant,Mitchell-King,Shelley,Leitch-Smith,Davis,Fogler,
Bradford: McLaughlan, Duff, Oliver, Eckersley, O'Brien, Worthington ( Daley, 55 ) , Osborne ( Flynn, 82 ) , Adeyemi, Syers, Evans ( Speight, 55 ) , Hanson
Subs not used: Threlfall, Saxton, Cullen, Hunt,
Bookings: Bell , Westwood (Crewe) Evans , O'Brien , Worthington (Bradford)
Attendance: 3665
Referee: Kevin Wright (Cambridgeshire)
===========================
Match report
CREWE (2) 2 BRADFORD CITY (1) 1
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City slumped to a fourth defeat on the bounce at Crewe tonight against a
side who played the whole second half with ten men.
Bradford-born Clayton Donaldson had stuck the knife into his hometown club
with his 16th goal of the season before he was red-carded before the break.
But the Bantams failed to make the man advantage count to remain in their
losing rut.
Gareth Evans wasted a gilt-edged chance early on and Crewe made him pay when
Donaldson tapped in their opener on 15 minutes.
City fought their way level six minutes before half-time, Shane Duff heading
his first goal for the club.
But their elation disappeared within seconds as Crewe went straight up the
other end to restore the lead through Byron Moore.
Donaldson was then sent off for sticking his head into City's new loan
signing Jon Worthington. Evans was also dismissed in a fiery end to the half
- only to be recalled over a case of mistaken identity.
City had 45 minutes to capitalise on their one-man advantage.
David Syers and Omar Daley went close as the visitors camped in the Crewe
half. Michael Flynn also volleyed wide after coming on late for his first
league outing of the season.
But City could not come up with an equaliser and were left once again with
that familiar empty feeling.
===========================
TAYLOR ADMITS TO RELEGATION FIGHT
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Peter Taylor surveyed the impact of City's fourth straight loss and
admitted: We're in a battle for survival now.
The 2-1 defeat at Crewe last night left the Bantams only five points above
the bottom two.
And Taylor conceded that the focus has turned to the foot of the table
instead of the top. He said: "We've got to be realistic. We're looking at
relegation more than promotion.
"We've lost four on the spin and you can't hide from that fact. But I still
say we've got a group of players that are honest and want to put it right.
"If we can keep going the way we played second half, I'm sure we will turn
it round."
City played the second half with a man advantage after Crewe top scorer
Clayton Donaldson was sent off.
Bradford-born Donaldson had fired Crewe ahead before Shane Duff levelled -
only for Byron Moore to net Crewe's second within a minute.
Taylor was fuming with the decisive goal after City failed to deal with a
long ball.
He added: "The second goal was embarrassing. There was no way we should
allow big holes in front of our back four from a kick like that.
"Crewe pass the ball around really well and create lots of chances but
that's probably the easiest goal they've scored all season.
"It doesn't mean it's a foregone conclusion that 11 men are going to beat
ten. They got bodies behind the ball.
"But the final decision let us down. A couple of times we got it right but
there were others when we shot in unrealistic situations and from silly
distances.
"But Gareth Evans should have scored first half - it was an easy chance.
"All of a sudden that changes the game. Then we get the equaliser and
concede a ridiculous goal - that's why we're in this position."
Jon Worthington, brought in on a month's loan from Oldham, played 55 minutes
and Taylor is confident he will make an impact.
"He hasn't had lot of football and had been booked so I wanted to get some
fresher legs on but he's going to be okay for us.
"We need noisy ones, we don't want people going into their shell. That's the
last thing we need in our situation."
===========================
===========================
BfB's interview with Mark Lawn
http://www.boyfrombrazil.co.uk/2011/01/talking-to-mark-lawn-part-one/
http://www.boyfrombrazil.co.uk/2011/01/talking-to-mark-lawn-part-two/
===========================
JON WORTHINGTON SIGNS PERMANENT DEAL
Posted on January 27, 2011 by admin
Jon Worthington has left Oldham Athletic after having his contract
terminated. The 27-year-old has now signed permanently for Bradford City
until the end of the season after initially joining the Bantams on an
emergency loan deal.
The Birkenshaw born midfielder who played for the first 55 minutes of the
Crewe defeat said: "We're in a results business and we'd like to have got
one, especially when they went down to ten men. So it was disappointing to
get beaten. But on a personal point of view, I'm delighted to be here.
You can't kid yourself, it was tough out there in my first game back. But
I'm quite a fit lad so give me a couple of games and I'll be straight back
in the swing of it. It's been a frustrating time since my move to Oldham.
I suffered a bad injury last season and then there was the change of manager
this year. I've been desperate to get back playing again. When I got the
call from Bradford, I jumped at the chance. There have been a couple of
times over the past few years when there was a chance I might have come
here. Luckily that's come now and I'll give it my all."
===========================
New Kit
Bradford have signed a four year deal to have kit made and supplied by Nike.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2275398,00.html
===========================
KIERNAN RETURNS TO WATFORD
Bradford City defender Rob Kiernan has returned to parent club Watford
following the end of his loan spell.
Kiernan, 20, arrived at Valley Parade in mid-November and extended his stay
earlier this month. He has made eight appearances for the Bantams.
Bradford manager Peter Taylor said: "I'd like to thank Rob for all his
efforts while he's been with us.
"He's shown a good attitude towards training and matches throughout his time
here and we wish him all the very best for the future."
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2277735,00.html?
Former Bantams midfielder Lee Hendrie has joined Indonesian Premier League side Bandung FC on a two year deal.
He will also be a football ambassador for coaching grassroots and youth development during his time at Bandung.
===========================
L2 (A) v Chesterfield January 29 2011. K.O. 3:00PM
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
===========================
Match stats
Crewe: Phillips, Dugdale, Ada, Blanchett, Tootle, Bell, Murphy, Westwood, Donaldson (sent off 46), Miller (Powell, 80 ) , Moore
Subs not used: Grant,Mitchell-King,Shelley,Leitch-Smith,Davis,Fogler,
Bradford: McLaughlan, Duff, Oliver, Eckersley, O'Brien, Worthington ( Daley, 55 ) , Osborne ( Flynn, 82 ) , Adeyemi, Syers, Evans ( Speight, 55 ) , Hanson
Subs not used: Threlfall, Saxton, Cullen, Hunt,
Bookings: Bell , Westwood (Crewe) Evans , O'Brien , Worthington (Bradford)
Attendance: 3665
Referee: Kevin Wright (Cambridgeshire)
===========================
Match report
CREWE (2) 2 BRADFORD CITY (1) 1
By Simon Parker (T&A)
City slumped to a fourth defeat on the bounce at Crewe tonight against a
side who played the whole second half with ten men.
Bradford-born Clayton Donaldson had stuck the knife into his hometown club
with his 16th goal of the season before he was red-carded before the break.
But the Bantams failed to make the man advantage count to remain in their
losing rut.
Gareth Evans wasted a gilt-edged chance early on and Crewe made him pay when
Donaldson tapped in their opener on 15 minutes.
City fought their way level six minutes before half-time, Shane Duff heading
his first goal for the club.
But their elation disappeared within seconds as Crewe went straight up the
other end to restore the lead through Byron Moore.
Donaldson was then sent off for sticking his head into City's new loan
signing Jon Worthington. Evans was also dismissed in a fiery end to the half
- only to be recalled over a case of mistaken identity.
City had 45 minutes to capitalise on their one-man advantage.
David Syers and Omar Daley went close as the visitors camped in the Crewe
half. Michael Flynn also volleyed wide after coming on late for his first
league outing of the season.
But City could not come up with an equaliser and were left once again with
that familiar empty feeling.
===========================
TAYLOR ADMITS TO RELEGATION FIGHT
By Simon Parker (T&A)
Peter Taylor surveyed the impact of City's fourth straight loss and
admitted: We're in a battle for survival now.
The 2-1 defeat at Crewe last night left the Bantams only five points above
the bottom two.
And Taylor conceded that the focus has turned to the foot of the table
instead of the top. He said: "We've got to be realistic. We're looking at
relegation more than promotion.
"We've lost four on the spin and you can't hide from that fact. But I still
say we've got a group of players that are honest and want to put it right.
"If we can keep going the way we played second half, I'm sure we will turn
it round."
City played the second half with a man advantage after Crewe top scorer
Clayton Donaldson was sent off.
Bradford-born Donaldson had fired Crewe ahead before Shane Duff levelled -
only for Byron Moore to net Crewe's second within a minute.
Taylor was fuming with the decisive goal after City failed to deal with a
long ball.
He added: "The second goal was embarrassing. There was no way we should
allow big holes in front of our back four from a kick like that.
"Crewe pass the ball around really well and create lots of chances but
that's probably the easiest goal they've scored all season.
"It doesn't mean it's a foregone conclusion that 11 men are going to beat
ten. They got bodies behind the ball.
"But the final decision let us down. A couple of times we got it right but
there were others when we shot in unrealistic situations and from silly
distances.
"But Gareth Evans should have scored first half - it was an easy chance.
"All of a sudden that changes the game. Then we get the equaliser and
concede a ridiculous goal - that's why we're in this position."
Jon Worthington, brought in on a month's loan from Oldham, played 55 minutes
and Taylor is confident he will make an impact.
"He hasn't had lot of football and had been booked so I wanted to get some
fresher legs on but he's going to be okay for us.
"We need noisy ones, we don't want people going into their shell. That's the
last thing we need in our situation."
===========================
===========================
BfB's interview with Mark Lawn
http://www.boyfrombrazil.co.uk/2011/01/talking-to-mark-lawn-part-one/
http://www.boyfrombrazil.co.uk/2011/01/talking-to-mark-lawn-part-two/
===========================
JON WORTHINGTON SIGNS PERMANENT DEAL
Posted on January 27, 2011 by admin
Jon Worthington has left Oldham Athletic after having his contract
terminated. The 27-year-old has now signed permanently for Bradford City
until the end of the season after initially joining the Bantams on an
emergency loan deal.
The Birkenshaw born midfielder who played for the first 55 minutes of the
Crewe defeat said: "We're in a results business and we'd like to have got
one, especially when they went down to ten men. So it was disappointing to
get beaten. But on a personal point of view, I'm delighted to be here.
You can't kid yourself, it was tough out there in my first game back. But
I'm quite a fit lad so give me a couple of games and I'll be straight back
in the swing of it. It's been a frustrating time since my move to Oldham.
I suffered a bad injury last season and then there was the change of manager
this year. I've been desperate to get back playing again. When I got the
call from Bradford, I jumped at the chance. There have been a couple of
times over the past few years when there was a chance I might have come
here. Luckily that's come now and I'll give it my all."
===========================
New Kit
Bradford have signed a four year deal to have kit made and supplied by Nike.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2275398,00.html
===========================
KIERNAN RETURNS TO WATFORD
Bradford City defender Rob Kiernan has returned to parent club Watford
following the end of his loan spell.
Kiernan, 20, arrived at Valley Parade in mid-November and extended his stay
earlier this month. He has made eight appearances for the Bantams.
Bradford manager Peter Taylor said: "I'd like to thank Rob for all his
efforts while he's been with us.
"He's shown a good attitude towards training and matches throughout his time
here and we wish him all the very best for the future."
===========================
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2277735,00.html?
Former Bantams midfielder Lee Hendrie has joined Indonesian Premier League side Bandung FC on a two year deal.
He will also be a football ambassador for coaching grassroots and youth development during his time at Bandung.
===========================
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
L2 L0-1 (A) v Aldershot Town January 18 2011. K.O. 7:45PM
Next fixture
L2 (H) v Burton Albion January 22 2011. K.O. 3:00PM
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2270626,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
http://aldershot2.digital-ink.co.uk/MatchReport.ink?MatchID=18495&type=m
===========================
Match stats
Aldershot: Young, Vincent, Herd, Charles, Vincenti (Panther, 59 ) , Jones, Guttridge, Harding (Morris, 78 ) ,
Small, McGlashan, Hylton (Sills, 72 )
Subs not used: Straker,Ngo Baheng,Clement,Fortune,
Goal: Charles 23
Bradford: McLaughlan, Duff, Oliver, Eckersley, O'Brien, Threlfall ( Cullen, 79 ) , Daley ( Evans, 60 ) , Bullock (
Osborne, 22 ) , Adeyemi, Syers, Hanson
Subs not used: Saxton, Kiernan, Horne, Hunt,
Bookings: Guttridge , Vincent (Aldershot) Threlfall (Bradford)
Attendance: 2160
Referee: A Woolmer (Northamptonshire)
Aldershot Bradford
The Shots / Few shots
6(4) Shots (on Goal) 3(2)
9 Fouls 10
9 Corner Kicks 3
1 Offsides 2
55% Time of Poss. 45%
2 Yellow Cards 1
0 Red Cards 0
2 Saves 5
===========================
Taylor asks his players to show character to get back on course
8:10am Wednesday 19th January 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Taylor today warned sinking City: Don't expect any favours to get out of this slump.
Last night's loss at Aldershot was the third on the bounce as the Bantams fluffed another chance to close in on the
top half.
The City chief acknowledged that confidence has tailed off with the poor run – but they will have to tough it out.
"I can understand the players aren't in top form but we've got to overcome it," said Taylor.
"It's a beautiful game we're involved in but also a very tough one. Nobody's going to give you a goal or a win;
you've got to earn that result.
"We've got to keep working extremely hard as a group. Some of the players will have been through this before but it
will be new to others.
"Our season has been nowhere near good enough and I hold my hands up to that.
"If we were top of the table I'd be happy to take the praise. But we're not so I'll take that on the chin."
Defender Anthony Charles scored the Aldershot winner, just like last season. But Taylor could point to missed
opportunities from Tom Adeyemi, Richard Eckersley and Mark Cullen.
He said: "You've got to take chances. I'm not saying we started the game greatly but we had better chances before
they scored.
"If one of them had gone in, it could have been a different kettle of fish.
"Goalscorers get you a goal when you deserve them and often when you don't. But we're not scoring enough."
City also fear Lee Bullock will be out for the next month after injuring a thigh muscle.
With Tommy Doherty facing an ankle operation tomorrow, it leaves Taylor short in the centre of midfield.
He admitted: "It doesn't look a very good one with Lee and I'd be surprised if it's not a month. We'll look when it
settles down and then take things from there."
Jon McLaughlin came in back for Lenny Pidgeley, who was ill, and Taylor felt the keeper impressed in his first
outing since the end of October.
He said: "I was very pleased with Jon. As much as I'm disappointed with the result, there were still some good
performances and I think Jon was one of them."
===========================
Charles proves Bantams' nemesis as McLaughlin can't prevent third loss in row
6:40am Wednesday 19th January 2011
By Simon Parker
Aldershot 1, City 0
It was the same old story for sorry City last night.
The same result as last season; even the same scorer.
The same scenario for Peter Taylor on a ground where he has now lost all four of his visits with various clubs.
And far more significantly, the same negative outcome as the Oxford and Barnet games. Three defeats in a row has
left the Bantams sinking fast.
While Aldershot's new manager Dean Holdsworth celebrated his first triumph in charge on his home debut, Taylor must
be scratching his head as to where the next points are coming from.
After back-to-back defeats, it had been a big night for City. It was a huge one for Jon McLaughlin.
Taylor had made it clear that Lenny Pidgeley's spot in goal was far from safe after his blunder for Oxford's
equaliser.
And while the decision was taken out of the manager's hands after Pidgeley was sent back home suffering with a
migraine, the onus was on McLaughlin to prove he could keep the shirt.
There were two other changes from Saturday, with James Hanson and Shane Duff both fit to return. Hanson's presence
in particular gave the side a better balance as they looked to claw back lost ground from recent costly defeats.
On paper, City were at the best place to rectify the Barnet and Oxford slip-ups. The Shots had the worst home
record in the division, losing their previous four EBB Stadium outings.
But this was their first home appearance under the new gaffer, so there was just as much at stake for their players
as the visitors.
McLaughlin was called into action after just two minutes to beat away Ben Harding's 30-yard free-kick. Danny Hylton
nodded the rebound back towards goal, where David Syers was handily placed to snuff out the danger.
But City had two big chances to snatch an early lead – both falling to Tom Adeyemi.
Fantastic work down the right from Richard Eckersley set up the first, which was well blocked by centre half Darren
Jones.
Seconds later, Adeyemi had his head in his hands after another golden opportunity went begging. Hanson knocked the
ball down into his path but Adeyemi fired straight at the keeper from close range and Hanson stabbed the loose ball
wide.
Adeyemi and Eckersley linked well again as the right back overlapped for a shot but could not connect properly. It
was a positive spell and Luke O'Brien looped a header over from Robbie Threlfall's cross.
But City were stunned by a double blow midway through the half. Lee Bullock had to hobble off after landing
awkwardly in a tackle – and before City had chance to readjust properly, Aldershot struck the first blow.
Peter Vincenti's pass was volleyed goalwards by Anthony Charles, whose shot carried too much power for McLaughlin
as it flew inside the near post. The keeper should have done better but he could also ask why Charles was allowed
to turn so easily.
The Shots centre half had scored the only goal in City's last visit ten months ago and now he had rocked them right
back on their heels again.
Syers was booked for bringing down Guttridge right on the edge of the area – his seventh yellow card. But
McLaughlin spared City further punishment as he flung himself to tip away Harding's free-kick.
Omar Daley got his first real opening to run and cut inside menacingly before testing Jamie Young at his near post.
Adeyemi had moved central to cover Bullock's absence with Leon Osborne taking up the right flank, although the
substitute had seen very little of the ball.
By contrast, Aldershot right winger Jermaine McGlashan had won a flurry of corners and was giving Threlfall plenty
to think about.
City had faded badly since the goal and there were worrying shades of Saturday as they struggled to keep the ball
whenever it was going forward, which allowed the hosts on to them more and more.
The Bantams put themselves under more pressure at the start of the second half. Duff gave the ball away too
casually as he carried it out of defence and Eckersley hauled down Hylton in a dangerous position.
Duff claimed he was pulled down as the free-kick came over but got up in time to make a vital block from Jones.
The game had grown scrappy while City looked for a way back in. Osborne's run was checked on the edge of the D and
Daley ran into a similar brick wall.
There was nothing to suggest a recovery was imminent as Taylor tried to shuffle things by replacing the Jamaican
with Gareth Evans on the hour.
City's small contingent of away fans finally made themselves heard when Threlfall's free-kick was punched away by
Young. The 128 loyal followers had little to cheer and Small nearly increased the pain when he was given plenty of
space to try his luck from distance.
Eckersley tried to provide a spark with an energetic burst upfield but O'Brien wasted it with a poor cross. Hanson
flicked a tame shot straight into Young's arms but the Shots keeper had not been seriously tested since that brief
first-half flurry.
Small nodded wastefully wide after he was left free to meet Ben Herd's cross and City almost made him pay when
Evans' drive deflected wide.
Taylor played his final card 11 minutes from time as Mark Cullen made it a three-man attack in place of Threlfall.
Straight away the teenager could have been a hero but looped his header over the bar.
Cullen then miscontrolled by the touchline and gave away a sloppy goal kick; it was a night when little had gone
right for the men in white.
There was a flicker when Syers burst through on the keeper but he was flagged offside.
But a third straight defeat has left City languishing further than ever from their top-seven target.
Attendance: 2,160
===========================
MARC BRIDGE-WILKINSON RELEASED BY CARLISLE
Carlisle United have confirmed that a mutual agreement has been reached with
Marc Bridge-Wilkinson this afternoon that allows the central midfielder to
move on to pastures new. Bridge-Wilkinson, 31, joined Carlisle in June 2007
after he was released by Bradford City following relegation to Division Two.
Marc originally joined City on loan from Stockport County in February 2005
and a month later he made the move permanent after he signed a two-year
contract. He went on to play for the Bantams 95 times and scored 14 goals
before moving to Brunton Park.
The Cumbrian's Manager (and former Bantam) Greg Abbott said: "Marc is an
absolutely fantastic lad but he wants to be playing regular football, and
that's not something that we could guarantee at this moment in time. We have
sat down and had a chat and we have agreed that it would be better for him
to move on so that he can get the pitch time that he needs. He really has
been a pleasure to work with and he leaves us with our very best wishes."
===========================
To be confirmed:
Doherty is having an op on his ankle and will be out for 6 weeks.
In time for Saturday Burton have signed Calvin Zola from Crewe - he's the big bloke we
can never handle and he scored two against us for Crewe last season.
L2 (H) v Burton Albion January 22 2011. K.O. 3:00PM
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/News/0,,10266~2270626,00.html?
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
http://aldershot2.digital-ink.co.uk/MatchReport.ink?MatchID=18495&type=m
===========================
Match stats
Aldershot: Young, Vincent, Herd, Charles, Vincenti (Panther, 59 ) , Jones, Guttridge, Harding (Morris, 78 ) ,
Small, McGlashan, Hylton (Sills, 72 )
Subs not used: Straker,Ngo Baheng,Clement,Fortune,
Goal: Charles 23
Bradford: McLaughlan, Duff, Oliver, Eckersley, O'Brien, Threlfall ( Cullen, 79 ) , Daley ( Evans, 60 ) , Bullock (
Osborne, 22 ) , Adeyemi, Syers, Hanson
Subs not used: Saxton, Kiernan, Horne, Hunt,
Bookings: Guttridge , Vincent (Aldershot) Threlfall (Bradford)
Attendance: 2160
Referee: A Woolmer (Northamptonshire)
Aldershot Bradford
The Shots / Few shots
6(4) Shots (on Goal) 3(2)
9 Fouls 10
9 Corner Kicks 3
1 Offsides 2
55% Time of Poss. 45%
2 Yellow Cards 1
0 Red Cards 0
2 Saves 5
===========================
Taylor asks his players to show character to get back on course
8:10am Wednesday 19th January 2011
By Simon Parker
Peter Taylor today warned sinking City: Don't expect any favours to get out of this slump.
Last night's loss at Aldershot was the third on the bounce as the Bantams fluffed another chance to close in on the
top half.
The City chief acknowledged that confidence has tailed off with the poor run – but they will have to tough it out.
"I can understand the players aren't in top form but we've got to overcome it," said Taylor.
"It's a beautiful game we're involved in but also a very tough one. Nobody's going to give you a goal or a win;
you've got to earn that result.
"We've got to keep working extremely hard as a group. Some of the players will have been through this before but it
will be new to others.
"Our season has been nowhere near good enough and I hold my hands up to that.
"If we were top of the table I'd be happy to take the praise. But we're not so I'll take that on the chin."
Defender Anthony Charles scored the Aldershot winner, just like last season. But Taylor could point to missed
opportunities from Tom Adeyemi, Richard Eckersley and Mark Cullen.
He said: "You've got to take chances. I'm not saying we started the game greatly but we had better chances before
they scored.
"If one of them had gone in, it could have been a different kettle of fish.
"Goalscorers get you a goal when you deserve them and often when you don't. But we're not scoring enough."
City also fear Lee Bullock will be out for the next month after injuring a thigh muscle.
With Tommy Doherty facing an ankle operation tomorrow, it leaves Taylor short in the centre of midfield.
He admitted: "It doesn't look a very good one with Lee and I'd be surprised if it's not a month. We'll look when it
settles down and then take things from there."
Jon McLaughlin came in back for Lenny Pidgeley, who was ill, and Taylor felt the keeper impressed in his first
outing since the end of October.
He said: "I was very pleased with Jon. As much as I'm disappointed with the result, there were still some good
performances and I think Jon was one of them."
===========================
Charles proves Bantams' nemesis as McLaughlin can't prevent third loss in row
6:40am Wednesday 19th January 2011
By Simon Parker
Aldershot 1, City 0
It was the same old story for sorry City last night.
The same result as last season; even the same scorer.
The same scenario for Peter Taylor on a ground where he has now lost all four of his visits with various clubs.
And far more significantly, the same negative outcome as the Oxford and Barnet games. Three defeats in a row has
left the Bantams sinking fast.
While Aldershot's new manager Dean Holdsworth celebrated his first triumph in charge on his home debut, Taylor must
be scratching his head as to where the next points are coming from.
After back-to-back defeats, it had been a big night for City. It was a huge one for Jon McLaughlin.
Taylor had made it clear that Lenny Pidgeley's spot in goal was far from safe after his blunder for Oxford's
equaliser.
And while the decision was taken out of the manager's hands after Pidgeley was sent back home suffering with a
migraine, the onus was on McLaughlin to prove he could keep the shirt.
There were two other changes from Saturday, with James Hanson and Shane Duff both fit to return. Hanson's presence
in particular gave the side a better balance as they looked to claw back lost ground from recent costly defeats.
On paper, City were at the best place to rectify the Barnet and Oxford slip-ups. The Shots had the worst home
record in the division, losing their previous four EBB Stadium outings.
But this was their first home appearance under the new gaffer, so there was just as much at stake for their players
as the visitors.
McLaughlin was called into action after just two minutes to beat away Ben Harding's 30-yard free-kick. Danny Hylton
nodded the rebound back towards goal, where David Syers was handily placed to snuff out the danger.
But City had two big chances to snatch an early lead – both falling to Tom Adeyemi.
Fantastic work down the right from Richard Eckersley set up the first, which was well blocked by centre half Darren
Jones.
Seconds later, Adeyemi had his head in his hands after another golden opportunity went begging. Hanson knocked the
ball down into his path but Adeyemi fired straight at the keeper from close range and Hanson stabbed the loose ball
wide.
Adeyemi and Eckersley linked well again as the right back overlapped for a shot but could not connect properly. It
was a positive spell and Luke O'Brien looped a header over from Robbie Threlfall's cross.
But City were stunned by a double blow midway through the half. Lee Bullock had to hobble off after landing
awkwardly in a tackle – and before City had chance to readjust properly, Aldershot struck the first blow.
Peter Vincenti's pass was volleyed goalwards by Anthony Charles, whose shot carried too much power for McLaughlin
as it flew inside the near post. The keeper should have done better but he could also ask why Charles was allowed
to turn so easily.
The Shots centre half had scored the only goal in City's last visit ten months ago and now he had rocked them right
back on their heels again.
Syers was booked for bringing down Guttridge right on the edge of the area – his seventh yellow card. But
McLaughlin spared City further punishment as he flung himself to tip away Harding's free-kick.
Omar Daley got his first real opening to run and cut inside menacingly before testing Jamie Young at his near post.
Adeyemi had moved central to cover Bullock's absence with Leon Osborne taking up the right flank, although the
substitute had seen very little of the ball.
By contrast, Aldershot right winger Jermaine McGlashan had won a flurry of corners and was giving Threlfall plenty
to think about.
City had faded badly since the goal and there were worrying shades of Saturday as they struggled to keep the ball
whenever it was going forward, which allowed the hosts on to them more and more.
The Bantams put themselves under more pressure at the start of the second half. Duff gave the ball away too
casually as he carried it out of defence and Eckersley hauled down Hylton in a dangerous position.
Duff claimed he was pulled down as the free-kick came over but got up in time to make a vital block from Jones.
The game had grown scrappy while City looked for a way back in. Osborne's run was checked on the edge of the D and
Daley ran into a similar brick wall.
There was nothing to suggest a recovery was imminent as Taylor tried to shuffle things by replacing the Jamaican
with Gareth Evans on the hour.
City's small contingent of away fans finally made themselves heard when Threlfall's free-kick was punched away by
Young. The 128 loyal followers had little to cheer and Small nearly increased the pain when he was given plenty of
space to try his luck from distance.
Eckersley tried to provide a spark with an energetic burst upfield but O'Brien wasted it with a poor cross. Hanson
flicked a tame shot straight into Young's arms but the Shots keeper had not been seriously tested since that brief
first-half flurry.
Small nodded wastefully wide after he was left free to meet Ben Herd's cross and City almost made him pay when
Evans' drive deflected wide.
Taylor played his final card 11 minutes from time as Mark Cullen made it a three-man attack in place of Threlfall.
Straight away the teenager could have been a hero but looped his header over the bar.
Cullen then miscontrolled by the touchline and gave away a sloppy goal kick; it was a night when little had gone
right for the men in white.
There was a flicker when Syers burst through on the keeper but he was flagged offside.
But a third straight defeat has left City languishing further than ever from their top-seven target.
Attendance: 2,160
===========================
MARC BRIDGE-WILKINSON RELEASED BY CARLISLE
Carlisle United have confirmed that a mutual agreement has been reached with
Marc Bridge-Wilkinson this afternoon that allows the central midfielder to
move on to pastures new. Bridge-Wilkinson, 31, joined Carlisle in June 2007
after he was released by Bradford City following relegation to Division Two.
Marc originally joined City on loan from Stockport County in February 2005
and a month later he made the move permanent after he signed a two-year
contract. He went on to play for the Bantams 95 times and scored 14 goals
before moving to Brunton Park.
The Cumbrian's Manager (and former Bantam) Greg Abbott said: "Marc is an
absolutely fantastic lad but he wants to be playing regular football, and
that's not something that we could guarantee at this moment in time. We have
sat down and had a chat and we have agreed that it would be better for him
to move on so that he can get the pitch time that he needs. He really has
been a pleasure to work with and he leaves us with our very best wishes."
===========================
To be confirmed:
Doherty is having an op on his ankle and will be out for 6 weeks.
In time for Saturday Burton have signed Calvin Zola from Crewe - he's the big bloke we
can never handle and he scored two against us for Crewe last season.
Monday, January 17, 2011
L2 (A) v Oxford United L1-2 January 15 2011. K.O. 3:00PM
Football League Two
Oxford 2 (0) - 1 (1) Bradford
At The Kassam Stadium on 15-01-2011
Next fixture
L2 (A) v Aldershot Town January 18 2011. K.O. 7:45PM
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
Taylor's post match interview is now on Youtube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Td6hmXv8wc
===========================
Match stats
Oxford: Clarke, Tonkin, Wright, Batt, Worley, Hall (Heslop, 58 ) , McLaren, Clist, MacLean, Craddock (Sangare, 89 ) , Midson (Constable, 58 )
Subs not used: Eastwood,Green,Payne,Deering,
Goals
MacLean 77
Craddock 82
Bradford: Pidgeley, Oliver, Eckersley, O'Brien, Threlfall ( Hanson, 88 ) , Kiernan, Daley ( Speight, 58 ) ,
Bullock, Adeyemi, Syers, Cullen ( Evans, 46 )
Subs not used: Osborne, McLaughlan, Horne, Hunt,
Goal
Syers 9
Bookings: McLaren (Oxford) Speight , Syers (Bradford)
Attendance: 7068
Referee: David Phillips (West Sussex)
STAT ATTACK
U's / C's
8 Shots On Target 2
10 Shots Off Target 0
6 Fouls (Conceded) 9
13 Corners 1
1 Yellow Cards 2
0 Red Cards 0
===========================
Saturday evening match report
City lost a game they had been winning at half-time for the second week running.
Trailing to David Syers' seventh goal of the season, in-form Oxford hit back with two late goals to claim their
sixth win in seven games.
But the Bantams could have little complaint after an afternoon that was dominated by the home team.
City got off to the perfect start when David Syers hooked home from Robbie Threlfall's corner after nine minutes.
It was their only shot and corner of the first half, with the rest of it spent protecting what they had got.
City had the strong wind at their backs but found themselves constantly pushed back by the home side.
Determined defending kept Oxford at bay although Lenny Pidgeley almost gave away an equaliser right on the break,
fumbling an Asa Hall shot but Jack Midson could not force in the loose ball.
Pidgeley made a crucial near-post save from Tom Craddock early in the second half as Oxford looked to carry on
where they had left off.
Oxford cranked up the pressure with Rob Kiernan preventing a certain goal from Craddock and Pidgeley saving at full
stretch from sub James Constable.
The one-way traffic continued. Threlfall produced another fantastic sliding block and Constable thumped a free
header wide.
City's resistance was finally broken 13 minutes from time. Pidgeley found Constable's shot too hot to handle and
Steve Maclean forced in the rebound.
It was no surprise that having got their breakthrough at last, Oxford quickly struck again.
Constable was the provider driving low across goal and Craddock popped up at the far post to turn home.
So back-to-back defeats have left the new year bubble well and truly burst ahead of another long road trip to
Aldershot on Tuesday.
===========================
Monday morning match report
McLaren pulls strings as Wilder's men show they have learned fast since Valley Parade hiding
6:50am Monday 17th January 2011
By Simon Parker
Oxford United 2, City 1
A visit to Britain's oldest seat of learning provided a reminder of football's most basic lesson for the bedraggled
Bantams.
In the city famed for its universities and academia, City were schooled by their hungry hosts – and you didn't need
a university degree to work out why.
Putting it simply, if you don't get the ball, you can't expect to win the match.
The stats showed that Oxford enjoyed 63 per cent of the possession. It seemed much more than that. The only sum
that didn't add up was the final score.
Just as there weren't five goals between the teams at Valley Parade in October, the 2-1 verdict did not reflect
what had just gone on. This was as one-sided an afternoon as City are likely to suffer all season.
Oxford, on this evidence, have learned fast from the naivety that saw them collapse during the second half in West
Yorkshire.
That lopsided loss was one of six in seven games which suddenly threw up question marks about whether the league
new boys and boss Chris Wilder had been found out by the step-up a division.
The answer is a resounding no. Saturday was their sixth win in seven since, a run that has seen them ease five
points past Peter Taylor's sorry lot.
Wilder's side are full of confidence; the youthful enthusiasm from the likes of Damian Batt and Anthony Tonkin, the
goals of Tom Craddock and James Constable and the round-the-block know-how he recently added by recruiting Paul
McLaren from Tranmere.
City fans know what McLaren is all about, though he himself has been the first to admit that his year at the club
was a complete flop.
But given time and space, there is no more precise passer from that deep midfield role – and City gave him all the
room needed to pull the strings effortlessly on his first appearance at the Kassam.
With full backs Tonkin and Batt bombing past him up and down the flanks, Oxford were given a free rein to attack,
attack and attack again.
So we saw a 90-minute version of an attack v defence training drill. And all this after the Bantams had, once
again, struck first.
Only nine minutes had gone when they forced their solitary corner. Robbie Threlfall's kick swirled on the strong
wind, David Syers nodded goalwards and Omar Daley's flailing leg caused enough unrest in the six-yard box to see
the ball sneak in.
It was an unexpected reward from a rare excursion into Oxford territory. The rest of the first half, and most of
the second, was spent defending the away goal.
Taylor had opted for pace over power up top, with Mark Cullen and Daley forming a diddy strike force. James Hanson,
who had not trained all week, and Gareth Evans were consigned to bench duties.
The thinking was to exploit any lack of speed in a back four that had shipped more home goals than any other in
League Two. The plan never got off the ground.
Taylor had seen enough by half-time and replaced a tiring Cullen with Evans. Jake Speight quickly followed in place
of Daley, who had just wasted a huge opportunity to double City's advantage.
A second goal would have rewarded the gutsy defending going on at the other end. Oxford, though, would have viewed
it as a travesty.
Having peppered away at the City box, a blunder by Asa Hall on the halfway line threatened to hand the visitors
some much-needed breathing space.
Evans accepted the gift and released Daley one on one with Ryan Clarke. The Jamaican looked favourite to score but
the Oxford keeper celebrated his new contract by pulling off a top-class smother.
Normal service swiftly resumed as wave after yellow wave pounded at the City penalty area.
Lenny Pidgeley blocked from Craddock and substitute Constable, while Rob Kiernan and Threlfall threw themselves
boldly in the path of other goal-bound efforts.
City had one last sniff of a breakaway but Speight's sloppy pass found a defender rather than intended target
Evans.
Constable, Oxford's leading scorer, had provided fresh impetus on his arrival. Prepared to shoot at the slightest
possibility, he rumbled around and got the crowd going.
He knew, they knew, we all knew that City's resistance would be breached sooner or later. The fact that they hung
on as long as the 77th minute should not disguise Oxford's total dominance.
Constable was the instigator but Pidgeley should have done better dealing with his well-struck thump. Instead the
ball deflected off the keeper and fell for Steve Maclean to force in at the far post, despite the desperate efforts
of Kiernan.
From that point, there was only going to be one outcome. City's shattered defensive limbs faced another huge
examination to stave off Oxford's renewed surge for a winner. They survived only four more minutes.
Constable, who else, charged down the right and when his low cross spun off Threlfall's heel and across the
goalmouth, there was Craddock to convert another scrambly finish.
Taylor threw the dice and brought on Hanson and there was a slither of hope when Luke Oliver's flick skimmed past
the post. But having seen so little of the play for so long, it was expecting too much for City to suddenly conjure
up a last-gasp comeback.
They had failed their Oxford examination and the 500-plus away fans trailed away convinced that this will be
another flunked season.
Attendance: 7,068
===========================
We have to mind the gap, says Bantams ace Threlfall
5:40pm Monday 17th January 2011
By Simon Parker
City can prove the critics wrong at Aldershot tomorrow night, according to Robbie Threlfall.
Back-to-back losses have left them six points behind the play-offs and removed the feelgood factor that began the
new year.
Wins over Lincoln and Bury have been consigned to history after City were beaten by Barnet and Oxford.
Threlfall admitted: "That's the highs and lows of football. Losing the last two has cancelled out what we'd done.
"We can't let the gap (to the play-offs) get any bigger now. We know we need to be more consistent.
"Aldershot's going to be another tough one but we've got to look at it as a great chance to come back and prove
everyone wrong."
Threlfall made only his second start since September at the Kassam Stadium. Like the rest of the back four, he
faced a huge workload as the home side poured forward at will.
Despite the one-sided pattern of the game, the young left back felt that City could have seen the job through.
"I think it was 80 minutes of solid defending but we still thought we could hang on.
"We were under the cosh but you expect a bit of pressure away from home. It was just frustrating we couldn't see it
through.
"We had a great chance to go 2-0 up with Omar (Daley), and if that had gone in it would have changed the game as
well.
"The team defended pretty solidly and we're all disappointed with the goals at the end.
"Their first one took it out of us and then the second just spun off my heel. I lost my bearings and the lad got
the cross in.
"But it was coming because we were under so much pressure. Now we've got to put that behind us and look to bounce
back against Aldershot.
"They've got a new manager but sometimes that can work both ways. Hopefully we can get a result there."
===========================
===========================
===========================
HUTCHINGS SET TO BE JEWELL'S ASSISTANT AT IPSWICH
Ipswich Town boss Paul Jewell looks set to appoint his former Bradford City,
Wigan and Derby assistant Chris Hutchings as his number two at Portman Road.
Hutchings (53) was sacked as manager of Walsall last week and was always
expected to be reunited with Jewell at Town.
Jewell said: "I'm going to bring in a senior coach to work alongside me.
That will happen next week.
"Chris is a terrific coach and we've enjoyed success both at Bradford and at
Wigan. Chris is most certainly well in the frame.
"I've got a couple of people to speak to and hopefully I want to get it
nailed down no later than Tuesday if I can."
The new Blues manager has already brought in his former Bradford strike
partner Sean McCarthy as a coach and says the one-time Truro City boss has
enjoyed his first two days at Playford Road: "I played with Sean, he was the
greediest striker I've ever played with.
"Sean will work alongside us. He has great enthusiasm, a good knowledge of
the game and he's loving every second of it."
Jewell confirmed that Darren O'Dea will be on loan until May and he will
look at Rory Fallon and Jake Livermore's situations next week: "I think
Darren's is done to the end of the season, I think that was agreed before I
got here and I'm quite happy with that.
"Rory's loan is up next weekend. I'll speak to Rory and I spoke to Peter
Reid yesterday and we'll make that decision next week."
Jewell will have the on-loan Pablo Couñago and Lee Martin watched when they
play for Crystal Palace and Charlton respectively this weekend, while Town's
third loanee Kevin Lisbie is ineligible to face the Blues for Millwall.
The new boss, who will also talk to people at the club who know more about
the players involved, confirmed that Town can recall any of the loanees from
their spells if he wants them.
===========================
SEAN McCARTHY JOINS JEWELL AT IPSWICH
Paul Jewell has appointed Sean McCarthy as coach as he builds his backroom
staff at Portman Road. The City striker has signed a contract to keep him
with the club until 2013 and will be in the dugout when Jewell takes charge
at Millwall on Saturday.
The big Welsh striker was signed from Plymouth Argyle for £250k at the
beginning of the 1990-91 season. He went on to play for the Bantams 160
times and he scored an impressive tally of 79 goals, before joining Oldham
Athletic for £500k in December 1993.
He was City's top scorer four seasons in a row. In the 1992-93 season he
scored 17 league goals and his strike partner Jewell weighed in with 16.
===========================
RONNIE WALLWORK ARRESTED IN STOLEN CARS PROBE
Ex-Bradford City loanee Ronnie Wallwork - who played for us back in 2004 -
has been arrested by police investigating serious and organised crime across
the north west.
The former Manchester United player (33) was questioned in connection with
the handling of stolen vehicles which have allegedly been used in crimes
across the region.
He was arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicles as he arrived at
Manchester Airport on a flight.
The arrest was made by officers from Titan - a collaboration of specialist
cops from six forces across the north-west established to tackle serious and
organised crime. Mr Wallwork, from Failsworth, Oldham, was bailed until next
week, when he could be charged with the offences.
Midfielder Wallwork joined City on loan in January 2004 from West Brom. He
made 7 appearances for the Bantams and scored 4 goal before returning to The
Hawthorns in the March.
===========================
Oxford 2 (0) - 1 (1) Bradford
At The Kassam Stadium on 15-01-2011
Next fixture
L2 (A) v Aldershot Town January 18 2011. K.O. 7:45PM
Current table
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/tables/cc_league2.html
===========================
Fixtures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/Fixtures/0,,10266,00.html
Pictures
"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html
Links
Taylor's post match interview is now on Youtube at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Td6hmXv8wc
===========================
Match stats
Oxford: Clarke, Tonkin, Wright, Batt, Worley, Hall (Heslop, 58 ) , McLaren, Clist, MacLean, Craddock (Sangare, 89 ) , Midson (Constable, 58 )
Subs not used: Eastwood,Green,Payne,Deering,
Goals
MacLean 77
Craddock 82
Bradford: Pidgeley, Oliver, Eckersley, O'Brien, Threlfall ( Hanson, 88 ) , Kiernan, Daley ( Speight, 58 ) ,
Bullock, Adeyemi, Syers, Cullen ( Evans, 46 )
Subs not used: Osborne, McLaughlan, Horne, Hunt,
Goal
Syers 9
Bookings: McLaren (Oxford) Speight , Syers (Bradford)
Attendance: 7068
Referee: David Phillips (West Sussex)
STAT ATTACK
U's / C's
8 Shots On Target 2
10 Shots Off Target 0
6 Fouls (Conceded) 9
13 Corners 1
1 Yellow Cards 2
0 Red Cards 0
===========================
Saturday evening match report
City lost a game they had been winning at half-time for the second week running.
Trailing to David Syers' seventh goal of the season, in-form Oxford hit back with two late goals to claim their
sixth win in seven games.
But the Bantams could have little complaint after an afternoon that was dominated by the home team.
City got off to the perfect start when David Syers hooked home from Robbie Threlfall's corner after nine minutes.
It was their only shot and corner of the first half, with the rest of it spent protecting what they had got.
City had the strong wind at their backs but found themselves constantly pushed back by the home side.
Determined defending kept Oxford at bay although Lenny Pidgeley almost gave away an equaliser right on the break,
fumbling an Asa Hall shot but Jack Midson could not force in the loose ball.
Pidgeley made a crucial near-post save from Tom Craddock early in the second half as Oxford looked to carry on
where they had left off.
Oxford cranked up the pressure with Rob Kiernan preventing a certain goal from Craddock and Pidgeley saving at full
stretch from sub James Constable.
The one-way traffic continued. Threlfall produced another fantastic sliding block and Constable thumped a free
header wide.
City's resistance was finally broken 13 minutes from time. Pidgeley found Constable's shot too hot to handle and
Steve Maclean forced in the rebound.
It was no surprise that having got their breakthrough at last, Oxford quickly struck again.
Constable was the provider driving low across goal and Craddock popped up at the far post to turn home.
So back-to-back defeats have left the new year bubble well and truly burst ahead of another long road trip to
Aldershot on Tuesday.
===========================
Monday morning match report
McLaren pulls strings as Wilder's men show they have learned fast since Valley Parade hiding
6:50am Monday 17th January 2011
By Simon Parker
Oxford United 2, City 1
A visit to Britain's oldest seat of learning provided a reminder of football's most basic lesson for the bedraggled
Bantams.
In the city famed for its universities and academia, City were schooled by their hungry hosts – and you didn't need
a university degree to work out why.
Putting it simply, if you don't get the ball, you can't expect to win the match.
The stats showed that Oxford enjoyed 63 per cent of the possession. It seemed much more than that. The only sum
that didn't add up was the final score.
Just as there weren't five goals between the teams at Valley Parade in October, the 2-1 verdict did not reflect
what had just gone on. This was as one-sided an afternoon as City are likely to suffer all season.
Oxford, on this evidence, have learned fast from the naivety that saw them collapse during the second half in West
Yorkshire.
That lopsided loss was one of six in seven games which suddenly threw up question marks about whether the league
new boys and boss Chris Wilder had been found out by the step-up a division.
The answer is a resounding no. Saturday was their sixth win in seven since, a run that has seen them ease five
points past Peter Taylor's sorry lot.
Wilder's side are full of confidence; the youthful enthusiasm from the likes of Damian Batt and Anthony Tonkin, the
goals of Tom Craddock and James Constable and the round-the-block know-how he recently added by recruiting Paul
McLaren from Tranmere.
City fans know what McLaren is all about, though he himself has been the first to admit that his year at the club
was a complete flop.
But given time and space, there is no more precise passer from that deep midfield role – and City gave him all the
room needed to pull the strings effortlessly on his first appearance at the Kassam.
With full backs Tonkin and Batt bombing past him up and down the flanks, Oxford were given a free rein to attack,
attack and attack again.
So we saw a 90-minute version of an attack v defence training drill. And all this after the Bantams had, once
again, struck first.
Only nine minutes had gone when they forced their solitary corner. Robbie Threlfall's kick swirled on the strong
wind, David Syers nodded goalwards and Omar Daley's flailing leg caused enough unrest in the six-yard box to see
the ball sneak in.
It was an unexpected reward from a rare excursion into Oxford territory. The rest of the first half, and most of
the second, was spent defending the away goal.
Taylor had opted for pace over power up top, with Mark Cullen and Daley forming a diddy strike force. James Hanson,
who had not trained all week, and Gareth Evans were consigned to bench duties.
The thinking was to exploit any lack of speed in a back four that had shipped more home goals than any other in
League Two. The plan never got off the ground.
Taylor had seen enough by half-time and replaced a tiring Cullen with Evans. Jake Speight quickly followed in place
of Daley, who had just wasted a huge opportunity to double City's advantage.
A second goal would have rewarded the gutsy defending going on at the other end. Oxford, though, would have viewed
it as a travesty.
Having peppered away at the City box, a blunder by Asa Hall on the halfway line threatened to hand the visitors
some much-needed breathing space.
Evans accepted the gift and released Daley one on one with Ryan Clarke. The Jamaican looked favourite to score but
the Oxford keeper celebrated his new contract by pulling off a top-class smother.
Normal service swiftly resumed as wave after yellow wave pounded at the City penalty area.
Lenny Pidgeley blocked from Craddock and substitute Constable, while Rob Kiernan and Threlfall threw themselves
boldly in the path of other goal-bound efforts.
City had one last sniff of a breakaway but Speight's sloppy pass found a defender rather than intended target
Evans.
Constable, Oxford's leading scorer, had provided fresh impetus on his arrival. Prepared to shoot at the slightest
possibility, he rumbled around and got the crowd going.
He knew, they knew, we all knew that City's resistance would be breached sooner or later. The fact that they hung
on as long as the 77th minute should not disguise Oxford's total dominance.
Constable was the instigator but Pidgeley should have done better dealing with his well-struck thump. Instead the
ball deflected off the keeper and fell for Steve Maclean to force in at the far post, despite the desperate efforts
of Kiernan.
From that point, there was only going to be one outcome. City's shattered defensive limbs faced another huge
examination to stave off Oxford's renewed surge for a winner. They survived only four more minutes.
Constable, who else, charged down the right and when his low cross spun off Threlfall's heel and across the
goalmouth, there was Craddock to convert another scrambly finish.
Taylor threw the dice and brought on Hanson and there was a slither of hope when Luke Oliver's flick skimmed past
the post. But having seen so little of the play for so long, it was expecting too much for City to suddenly conjure
up a last-gasp comeback.
They had failed their Oxford examination and the 500-plus away fans trailed away convinced that this will be
another flunked season.
Attendance: 7,068
===========================
We have to mind the gap, says Bantams ace Threlfall
5:40pm Monday 17th January 2011
By Simon Parker
City can prove the critics wrong at Aldershot tomorrow night, according to Robbie Threlfall.
Back-to-back losses have left them six points behind the play-offs and removed the feelgood factor that began the
new year.
Wins over Lincoln and Bury have been consigned to history after City were beaten by Barnet and Oxford.
Threlfall admitted: "That's the highs and lows of football. Losing the last two has cancelled out what we'd done.
"We can't let the gap (to the play-offs) get any bigger now. We know we need to be more consistent.
"Aldershot's going to be another tough one but we've got to look at it as a great chance to come back and prove
everyone wrong."
Threlfall made only his second start since September at the Kassam Stadium. Like the rest of the back four, he
faced a huge workload as the home side poured forward at will.
Despite the one-sided pattern of the game, the young left back felt that City could have seen the job through.
"I think it was 80 minutes of solid defending but we still thought we could hang on.
"We were under the cosh but you expect a bit of pressure away from home. It was just frustrating we couldn't see it
through.
"We had a great chance to go 2-0 up with Omar (Daley), and if that had gone in it would have changed the game as
well.
"The team defended pretty solidly and we're all disappointed with the goals at the end.
"Their first one took it out of us and then the second just spun off my heel. I lost my bearings and the lad got
the cross in.
"But it was coming because we were under so much pressure. Now we've got to put that behind us and look to bounce
back against Aldershot.
"They've got a new manager but sometimes that can work both ways. Hopefully we can get a result there."
===========================
===========================
===========================
HUTCHINGS SET TO BE JEWELL'S ASSISTANT AT IPSWICH
Ipswich Town boss Paul Jewell looks set to appoint his former Bradford City,
Wigan and Derby assistant Chris Hutchings as his number two at Portman Road.
Hutchings (53) was sacked as manager of Walsall last week and was always
expected to be reunited with Jewell at Town.
Jewell said: "I'm going to bring in a senior coach to work alongside me.
That will happen next week.
"Chris is a terrific coach and we've enjoyed success both at Bradford and at
Wigan. Chris is most certainly well in the frame.
"I've got a couple of people to speak to and hopefully I want to get it
nailed down no later than Tuesday if I can."
The new Blues manager has already brought in his former Bradford strike
partner Sean McCarthy as a coach and says the one-time Truro City boss has
enjoyed his first two days at Playford Road: "I played with Sean, he was the
greediest striker I've ever played with.
"Sean will work alongside us. He has great enthusiasm, a good knowledge of
the game and he's loving every second of it."
Jewell confirmed that Darren O'Dea will be on loan until May and he will
look at Rory Fallon and Jake Livermore's situations next week: "I think
Darren's is done to the end of the season, I think that was agreed before I
got here and I'm quite happy with that.
"Rory's loan is up next weekend. I'll speak to Rory and I spoke to Peter
Reid yesterday and we'll make that decision next week."
Jewell will have the on-loan Pablo Couñago and Lee Martin watched when they
play for Crystal Palace and Charlton respectively this weekend, while Town's
third loanee Kevin Lisbie is ineligible to face the Blues for Millwall.
The new boss, who will also talk to people at the club who know more about
the players involved, confirmed that Town can recall any of the loanees from
their spells if he wants them.
===========================
SEAN McCARTHY JOINS JEWELL AT IPSWICH
Paul Jewell has appointed Sean McCarthy as coach as he builds his backroom
staff at Portman Road. The City striker has signed a contract to keep him
with the club until 2013 and will be in the dugout when Jewell takes charge
at Millwall on Saturday.
The big Welsh striker was signed from Plymouth Argyle for £250k at the
beginning of the 1990-91 season. He went on to play for the Bantams 160
times and he scored an impressive tally of 79 goals, before joining Oldham
Athletic for £500k in December 1993.
He was City's top scorer four seasons in a row. In the 1992-93 season he
scored 17 league goals and his strike partner Jewell weighed in with 16.
===========================
RONNIE WALLWORK ARRESTED IN STOLEN CARS PROBE
Ex-Bradford City loanee Ronnie Wallwork - who played for us back in 2004 -
has been arrested by police investigating serious and organised crime across
the north west.
The former Manchester United player (33) was questioned in connection with
the handling of stolen vehicles which have allegedly been used in crimes
across the region.
He was arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicles as he arrived at
Manchester Airport on a flight.
The arrest was made by officers from Titan - a collaboration of specialist
cops from six forces across the north-west established to tackle serious and
organised crime. Mr Wallwork, from Failsworth, Oldham, was bailed until next
week, when he could be charged with the offences.
Midfielder Wallwork joined City on loan in January 2004 from West Brom. He
made 7 appearances for the Bantams and scored 4 goal before returning to The
Hawthorns in the March.
===========================
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