The Bradford City Onion

A light hearted look at the goings on at Bradford City Football Club in England. I sometimes just larf at the non-news items that is posted between game on the City web site. Typical comments are "if we had scored more goal than the opposition we would have won. We didn't so we lost". DUH! Coupled with the sarcastic news on "theonion.com" this is my blog. Want real BCFC news? Sign up for the City Forward! Email List I edit by sending a blank email to bantams-cfml-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Saturday, June 29, 2013

CFML pre-season news June 29th 2013 #BCAFC

CFML pre-season news #2013 June ... 2013 #BCAFC

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

2013/14 League One Fixtures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10493289.Bradford_City_kick_off_at_Bristol_City/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/bradford-city/fixtures

Pre-Season Fixtures
(see below for full article)
Saturday 13 July 3pm (a) v Guiseley
Tuesday 23rd July tba (a) v Grimsby T.
Saturday 27th July 3pm (h) v Doncaster R.

pre-season tour to Ireland, two matches planned, details to be confirmed.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/ireland-trip-dates-857464.aspx
Departing Sunday 14th July returning Sunday 21st July

Bohemian FC Saturday 20th July 2013 at 1:00pm.
Bohemian's Dalymount Park in Dublin
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/irish-games-869039.aspx

Capital One Cup ticket info
Tuesday 6 August 2013 - kick off 7:45pm @ John Smith Stadium
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/huddersfield-ticket-prices-883233.aspx

August 12th (Not the first team)
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/development-squad-bpa-885701.aspx

===========================

Signings, contracts etc

May 22
Parkinson, Parkin (assistant) and Allemby (fitness coach) all sign new three year deals.

June 7th
Andrew Davies two-year extension

June 20th
Gary Jones, one year contract extension.
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10497915.Jones_signs_for_another_year_with_Bradford_City

June 24th
Northampton Town sign keeper Matt Duke on a two-year deal following his release by Bradford.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23033677
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10505053.Duke__Leaving_Bradford_City_was_my_toughest_call/

===========================

Season tickets and flex cards
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/season-ticket-update-845328.aspx

Payment plan back for Season Tickets
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/easy-pay-879085.aspx

Secure your spot in League 1!
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/season-ticket-update-845328.aspx

Match-day prices frozen
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/match-day-prices-876391.aspx

===========================
Key dates for next season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/key-dates-for-the-season-852424.aspx

PUBLISHED

08:42 4th June 2013

City will be given their Capital One Cup Round 1 opponents and League 1 fixture schedule for the 2013/2014 season this month (June).

The first round draw for the Capital One Cup will take place on Monday 17 June 2013 (9:30am), while City's full league fixture schedule for next

season will be revealed two days later on Wednesday 19 June 2013 (9:00am).

The league season for Phil Parkinson's men is set to begin on Saturday 3 August 2013. Capital One Cup Round 1 ties are scheduled to take place

the week commencing 5th August.

Unless they receive a bye, Parkinson's side will enter the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at the first round stage on the week beginning 2nd September

2013.

Despite promotion into League 1, City will also still enter the F.A Cup at the first round proper, with ties for that stage of the competition

scheduled for Saturday 9 November 2013.

The month of March will see the finals of the Capital One Cup (2 March 2014) and the Johnstone's Paint Trophy (30 March 2014).

The 2013/14 Christmas and New Year programme will include matches on Saturday 21st December and Sunday 29th December, as well as Boxing Day and

New Year's Day.

The season for clubs in League 1, plus League 2 and the Championship, will end on Saturday 3rd May. The Football League Play-Off Finals will take

place over the Bank Holiday weekend of 24th-26th May 2014.

===========================

Pressure off City as they seek first opening-day win in five seasons
...but...Bristol City have not made a three-point start since 2008
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10495786.Pressure_off_Bradford_City_as_they_seek_first_opening_day_win_in_five_seasons/
===========================

City a match financially for majority of League One rivals
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10504069.Bantams_in_a_position_to_bankroll_a_shot_at_promotion_next_season/

Various articles about the lack of new signings and/or extended deals for current players. This article seems to sum everything up so far
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10510232.Relax__says_Bradford_City_boss__transfer_frenzy_won___t_kick_off_until_July/

and then...
City head of recruitment moves north of border
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10511471.Former_Bradford_City_head_of_recruitment_moves_north_of_border/

New away strip
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/new-away-shirt-885015.aspx

Supporters rally to protect Bradford City asset
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10516408.Supporters_rally_to_protect_Bradford_City_asset/

===========================

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

CFML pre-season news June 19 ... Fixtures are out! #BCAFC

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

2013/14 L1 Fixtures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10493289.Bradford_City_kick_off_at_Bristol_City/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/bradford-city/fixtures

Pre-Season Fixtures
(see below for full article)
Saturday 13 July 3pm (a) v Guiseley
Tuesday 23rd July tba (a) v Grimsby T.
Saturday 27th July 3pm (h) v Doncaster R.

pre-season tour to Ireland, two matches planned, details to be confirmed.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/ireland-trip-dates-857464.aspx
Departing Sunday 14th July returning Sunday 21st July

Bohemian FC Saturday 20th July 2013 at 1:00pm.
Bohemian's Dalymount Park in Dublin
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/irish-games-869039.aspx

===========================

Signings, contracts etc

May 22
Parkinson, Parkin (assistant) and Allemby (fitness coach) all sign new three year deals.

June 7th
Andrew Davies two-year extension

===========================

Season tickets and flex cards
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/season-ticket-update-845328.aspx

Secure your spot in League 1!
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/season-ticket-update-845328.aspx

Pledge for the Video
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/dvd-pledge-868935.aspx

The Football League have confirmed that City will be unseeded for next Monday's (17 June 2013) Capital One Cup Round 1 draw.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/capital-one-cup-seeding-861331.aspx

===========================
Key dates for next season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/key-dates-for-the-season-852424.aspx

PUBLISHED

08:42 4th June 2013

City will be given their Capital One Cup Round 1 opponents and League 1 fixture schedule for the 2013/2014 season this month (June).

The first round draw for the Capital One Cup will take place on Monday 17 June 2013 (9:30am), while City's full league fixture schedule for next

season will be revealed two days later on Wednesday 19 June 2013 (9:00am).

The league season for Phil Parkinson's men is set to begin on Saturday 3 August 2013. Capital One Cup Round 1 ties are scheduled to take place

the week commencing 5th August.

Unless they receive a bye, Parkinson's side will enter the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at the first round stage on the week beginning 2nd September

2013.

Despite promotion into League 1, City will also still enter the F.A Cup at the first round proper, with ties for that stage of the competition

scheduled for Saturday 9 November 2013.

The month of March will see the finals of the Capital One Cup (2 March 2014) and the Johnstone's Paint Trophy (30 March 2014).

The 2013/14 Christmas and New Year programme will include matches on Saturday 21st December and Sunday 29th December, as well as Boxing Day and

New Year's Day.

The season for clubs in League 1, plus League 2 and the Championship, will end on Saturday 3rd May. The Football League Play-Off Finals will take

place over the Bank Holiday weekend of 24th-26th May 2014.

===========================

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10480110.Cobblers_ready_to_move_for_Bradford_City_keeper_Duke/?ref=eb

Cobblers ready to move for Bradford City keeper Duke

6:30am Thursday 13th June 2013

By Simon Parker

Northampton continue to keep close tabs on Matt Duke as he mulls over his Valley Parade future.

Cobblers boss Aidy Boothroyd is a long-time admirer of the experienced goalkeeper, who had a nine-game loan spell with them in 2012 – and remains

ready to jump in if he decides not to stay with City.

Boothroyd said: "We're going to monitor the situation but if he did become available, he's certainly someone who I would be interested in

signing.

"I thought Dukey became a fans' favourite here very quickly and you can see why, because his performances for Bradford were phenomenal last

season.

"If he does become available, then there will certainly be a lot of interest from me and from us. We think he's a top keeper."

Duke, who turns 36 on Sunday, performed heroics in the Capital One Cup last season but then lost his place to Jon McLaughlin. He was on the bench

when City returned to Wembley to beat Northampton in the play-off final.

Duke, who has doubled up as City's goalkeeping coach, would face another fight for the jersey next season with McLaughlin already signed on. But

Boothroyd is in the market for a first-choice stopper to replace Wigan loanee Lee Nicholls.

Northampton would use Duke purely in a playing capacity. Former England international Tim Flowers is their full-time keeper coach.

===========================

Bradford City away to Huddersfield in Capital One Cup
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10488674.Bradford_City_away_to_Huddersfield/

City have drawn a West Yorkshire derby in the Capital One Cup.

Last season's losing finalists will kick off their campaign with a first-round trip to Huddersfield.

They visited the John Smith's Stadium at the same stage of the competition in 2008, when Stuart McCall's team were beaten 4-0.

But City won there on penalties in the JP Trophy under Phil Parkinson in 2011.

----

Capital One Cup organisers score own goal by not seeding City
www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10485733.Capital_One_Cup_organisers_score_own_goal_by_not_seeding_Bradford_City/

Capital One Cup cracker is made for TV, says Julian Rhodes
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10490320.Bantams__Capital_One_Cup_cracker_is_made_for_TV_____Rhodes/

===========================

Mark Lawn: We must stop selling soul to Devil
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10488613.Lawn__We_must_stop_selling_soul_to_Devil/
===========================

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

CFML pre-season news June 11 2013 #BCAFC

Tuesday, June 04, 2013

CFML pre-season news #2013 June 4th 2013 #BCAFC

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

Pre-Season Fixtures
(see below for full article)
Saturday 13 July 3pm (a) v Guiseley
Tuesday 23rd July tba (a) v Grimsby T.
Saturday 27th July 3pm (h) v Doncaster R.

pre-season tour to Ireland, dates to be confirmed, two matches planned.

===========================

Signings, contracts etc

May 22
Parkinson, Parkin (assistant) and Allemby (fitness coach) all sign new three year deals.

Baker to leave City
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/baker-to-leave-city-835762.aspx

Dean Overson and Steve Williams will not be offered new contracts
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/overson-williams-845801.aspx

===========================

Season tickets and flex cards
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/season-ticket-update-845328.aspx

Count me in for League One
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10447442.Return_of_Bradford_City_forgotten_man_Oliver

'We were in great Nick thanks to Allamby
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10457033.Bradford_City___We_were_in_great_Nick_thanks_to_Allamby_/

I've started following Bradford because of Nahki, says Governor
http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20130601/SPORT01/706019991

===========================

From the Official BCFC Website:

THE SEASON BY NUMBERS

The 2012/2013 campaign will most probably go down in history as one of the
most memorable for Bradford City and its supporters for a long, long time.

Two trips to Wembley, one major cup final, three wins over Premiership
opponents, sixty-four games and, of course, one promotion!

Those numbers aren't the only worthwhile digits to come out of an
mind-boggling campaign for Phil Parkinson's men though.

Below are just some of the amazing numbers to come out of, well, a truly
amazing season!

82,997 - The crowd figure for the Capital One Cup Final at Wembley.

23,971 - The attendance at the Coral Windows Stadium for the Capital One Cup
Quarter-Final with Arsenal - a modern stadium record.

14,657 - The attendance for the home leg of City's Play-Off Semi-Final with
Burton Albion.

13,461 - City's highest league attendance of the season (vs Rotherham
United).

6,500 - The approximate figure for City's away following at Villa Park

399 - The total number of international caps in the Arsenal starting eleven
for City's Capital One Cup triumph over the Gunners.

92 - The amount of goals scored by City in all competitions.

64 - Games in the season.

32 - Players used in all competitions for City.

26 - The amount of goals scored by Nahki Wells in the season.

25 - The amount of midweek evening games City took part in during the
season.

23 - The number of clean sheets for City in all competitions.

18 - Clean sheets picked up in the league - only champions Gillingham (19)
registered more.

15 - The number of cup games for City in the season.

14 - Penalties converted by City in shoot-outs.

12 - The amount of players who scored two or more goals for City this season

7 - The number of City matches this season that were televised.

6 - Periods of extra time

5 - Assists by Gary Jones during City's remarkable run in the Capital One
Cup. The tally saw Jones up to joint top in the list of assist-makers for
the competition this season.

4 - Penalty shoot-outs during the season.

3 - Number of Premier League teams beaten on the way to Capital One Cup
Final (Wigan Athletic, Arsenal and Aston Villa).

2 - Number of visits to Wembley Stadium.

1 - Or League 1 to be more precise - City's division next season following
promotion through the Play-Offs.

===========================

First friendlies confirmed
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/first-friendlies-854201.aspx
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/grimsby-game-added-852415.aspx

PUBLISHED

14:02 4th June 2013

The football club can now reveal two of its pre-season friendly fixtures ahead of the 2013/2014 campaign.

Last season's League 1 champions Doncaster Rovers will travel to the Coral Windows Stadium a week before the start of the regular season on

Saturday 27th July 2013 for a friendly with Phil Parkinson's squad.

The match with Rovers should given City fans an opportunity to catch a glimpse of former Bantams favourite David Syers - now in the red and white

of Doncaster - while Billy Paynter, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Valley Parade back in 2007, may also be part of the visitors' squad.

Prices for the Doncaster friendly will be £10.00 for adults and £5.00 for concessions.

Before the visit of Rovers, City will travel to Nethermoor to play Guiseley on Saturday 13 July 2013 in another pre-season fixture. Guiseley, who

City defeated in a friendly 4-0 last July, have City old boy Mark Bower in their ranks.

The Lions finished the 2012/2013 campaign in second place in the Blue Square Bet North before losing in the Play-Offs at the semi-final stage to

eventual winners FC Halifax Town.

Both friendly fixtures will kick off at 3:00pm.

The club can also confirm that City will be returning to the Republic of Ireland for a week-long trip in July. In a repeat of last season's

visit, the pre-season tour will see City play two matches against Irish's opponents during their stay in the country.

Further information regarding the Ireland trip will be announced in due course.

===========================

Key dates for next season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/key-dates-for-the-season-852424.aspx

PUBLISHED

08:42 4th June 2013

City will be given their Capital One Cup Round 1 opponents and League 1 fixture schedule for the 2013/2014 season this month (June).

The first round draw for the Capital One Cup will take place on Monday 17 June 2013 (9:30am), while City's full league fixture schedule for next season will be revealed two days later on Wednesday 19 June 2013 (9:00am).

The league season for Phil Parkinson's men is set to begin on Saturday 3 August 2013. Capital One Cup Round 1 ties are scheduled to take place the week commencing 5th August.

Unless they receive a bye, Parkinson's side will enter the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at the first round stage on the week beginning 2nd September 2013.

Despite promotion into League 1, City will also still enter the F.A Cup at the first round proper, with ties for that stage of the competition scheduled for Saturday 9 November 2013.

The month of March will see the finals of the Capital One Cup (2 March 2014) and the Johnstone's Paint Trophy (30 March 2014).

The 2013/14 Christmas and New Year programme will include matches on Saturday 21st December and Sunday 29th December, as well as Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

The season for clubs in League 1, plus League 2 and the Championship, will end on Saturday 3rd May. The Football League Play-Off Finals will take place over the Bank Holiday weekend of 24th-26th May 2014.

===========================

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

CFML pre-season news May 28th 2013 #bcafc

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

Pre-Season Fixtures
TBA

===========================

Signings

May 22
Parkinson, Parkin (assistant) and Allemby (fitness coach) all sign new three year deals.

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/niall-heaton-833996.aspx
Niall Heaton, centre half,second-year apprentice with the option of a one-year professional contract

===========================

Season Ticket deadline extended
Please use the link for the complete article
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/season-ticket-deadline-extended-again-826003.aspx

Season Tickets can be purchased in person at the Bantams Ticket Office, over the phone by ringing Bradford 0871 978 8000* or by going online - please click HERE.
http://www.bcfc.talent-sport.co.uk/PagesPublic/ProductBrowse/productSeason.aspx

---

FlexiCards to go back on sale
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/flexicards-back-on-sale-835095.aspx

Images of the season
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/season-images-835750.aspx

===========================

Parade before and after

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-22615224

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/parade-831757.aspx

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/parade-2-831760.aspx

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10443213.The_hit_parade__Fitting_celebration_to_a_Bradford_City_season_that_has_been_off_the_charts

----

Phil Parkinson signs new Bradford City deal
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22611104

===========================

Ticket Zone statement

PUBLISHED

13:40 22nd May 2013

The club has today reiterated its statement of advice to any supporters who suspect their credit or debit card has been misused following the purchase of tickets for the League 2 Play-Off Final against Northampton Town last Saturday.

Supporters who feel their credit/debit card could have misused should first of all contact their card provider and then contact Ticket Zone via email on customerservices@ticketzone.co.uk or by phone 08444 99 99 55 (option 3).

Ticket Zone is working hard on any issues that may have arisen and is helping the Police with their enquiries into the criminal activity that has occurred for a small number of cardholders. As the matter is now being dealt with by Ticket Zone and the Police, it will not be appropriate for the Club to make any further announcements on this matter.

If supporters wish to view the more detailed explanation that was issued last week, please click HERE.
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/ticket-zone-825671.aspx

Ticket Zone will distribute further updates from time to time and will correspond directly with the cardholders that have been affected.

===========================

Parky @ LMA awards
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/parkinson-receives-lma-award-826016.aspx

Pictures
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/pp-lma-pics-831255.aspx

http://www.leaguemanagers.com/managers/longest-current.html
Parkinson is currently the 23rd longest serving manager in the league.

Champagne was on ice until 91st minute...
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10445605.Champagne_was_on_ice_until_91st_minute____Bradford_City_chief_relives_nerves_and_elation_of_play_off_final_day/

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

L2PO Final W3-0 v Northampton Town May 18th 2013 #BCAFC #wembley13

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

Stats
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=365163&action=stats&lang=EN&wjb=
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22491339

City's promotion heroes will parade their League Two play-off trophy on
an open-top bus tour on Wednesday.

The Wembley-winning squad will leave Valley Parade at 6.30pm and head
down Manningham Lane on the way to City Hall. The exact route is still to be confirmed.

Once at City Hall, the players and management will be introduced to the
fans as well as civic dignitaries and invited guests.

===========================

Video
(some are UK only)

Link to full game available on request

BBC Football League show
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF1yZE4FKLM&feature=youtu.be

Sky sports highlights
http://www1.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/8720351/bradford-3-0-northampton

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22581627

Supporter videos

Mike Harrison (Mr City Gent)
2-0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gZSa6Fwru0o

3-0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=OUlkA6Q-DfQ

Oh, their keeper saved one
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=FXOO9e3Iy4s

Victory slide
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=k6cR1Q2c31c

===========================

PARKINSON AGREES DEAL

(updated May 21 - PP expected to sign May 22nd)

By Richard Sutcliffe (Yorkshire Post)
Published on 15/05/2013 08:58

PHIL PARKINSON has given Bradford City a huge pre-Wembley boost by agreeing a new two-year contract, joint chairman Julian Rhodes has revealed.

The 45-year-old's current deal is set to expire in the summer and talks over a possible extension have been on-going for several months.

Parkinson's stock has risen considerably this season and Blackpool made an official approach to speak to the City manager in January.

He has also been linked with the Sheffield United vacancy in recent weeks, leading to concerns among supporters that the manager who has finally

stopped Bradford's decline could be tempted away from Valley Parade.

Those fears can, however, be allayed after Rhodes last night confirmed agreement had been reached over a new contract for Parkinson.

It will not, though, be signed until Bradford have also struck deals with assistant manager Steve Parkin and fitness conditioner Nick Allamby,

which is not expected to be done until after this Saturday's League Two play-off final with Northampton Town.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Post last night, Rhodes said: "Everything is agreed with Phil over a new contract.

"But, because Phil is a man of his word, it won't be signed until Steve and Nick are also able to sign their own deals.

"Phil has insisted all along that he wants the staff to sign their contracts at the same time as him. That is a mark of Phil, who is not the type

of man to sort himself out and leave the rest to sort their own futures.

"It also shows the togetherness that exists among the coaching staff, which has undoubtedly been a factor in how our season has gone.

"We have spoken to the League Managers' Association and they will agree the format before sending the contracts on.

"What it means is that Phil's deal will not be signed until after the play-off final. We have all agreed on that because we don't want there to

be any distractions ahead of such a vital game.

"Instead, we expect everything to be sorted out next week. The main thing from the club's point of view is that everything is agreed and is ready

to be signed."

The agreement with Parkinson, who has been in charge at Valley Parade since succeeding Peter Jackson in August 2011, includes two separate wages

to cover whether City will be in League One or Two next season.

Providing similar deals can be struck with both Parkin and Allamby, it will bring an end to a drawn-out saga that has been held up by several

factors outside of the control of either party.

After a contract had first been mooted at the start of the year, talks took place between Parkinson's agent, Barry Nevill, and Rhodes on behalf

of the club.

However, Nevill then fell seriously ill and had to undergo surgery on a perforated bowel, leading Parkinson to turn to the League Managers'

Association for representation while his agent and friend recuperated in hospital.

Further delays came via Bradford reaching Wembley for the first time this season in February and then Rhodes, who conducts all contract talks on

behalf of the Bantams, selling his private business.

That sale finally went through earlier this month, meaning the City joint chairman was free to focus 100 per cent on Parkinson's contract

situation.

Now, with agreement having been reached, the Bradford squad are likely to be buoyed going into Saturday's Wembley date.

Rhodes said: "The players are absolutely determined to finish on a high.

"They don't just want the season we have had to go flat right at the end.

"The pleasing thing for us is that we looked so fresh in those final 20 minutes against Burton (in the semi-final second leg).

"That is testament to what work has been done during the season by Phil and the coaching staff, and is why we have been so keen for everyone to

stay."

Bradford expect to be backed by around 25,000 fans at Wembley on Saturday with Northampton likely to have a similar following as the two clubs

meet for a fifth time this season.

In terms of results, City go in with an advantage after winning both league contests 1-0 and having knocked the Cobblers out of the FA Cup on

penalties after a replay.

Rhodes added: "I detected a touch of complacency among our fans before the Burton first leg (which City lost 3-2) but I can't see that being a

problem for the final.

"Northampton are a team who, at one stage, looked to be on course for a place in the top three so everyone recognises it will be a tough game.

"Certainly, we can't afford to start on Saturday like we did against Burton. Instead, we want to start like we finished that second leg."

Parkinson has been named on an all-Yorkshire shortlist for the League Two Manager of the Month for April along with York City's Nigel Worthington

and Steve Evans of Rotherham United, who clinched automatic promotion on the final day of the season.

Meanwhile, City have secured a new shirt sponsor for next season with JCT600's name set to appear on the club's kit.

The Bradford-based motor group, who have signed a three-year deal, sponsored the Bantams for nine years until 2006.

richard.sutcliffe@ypn.co.uk

===========================

Social media feeds

Phil McNulty @philmcnulty Congratulations to Bradford City on promotion to League One. Brilliant season for Phil Parkinson & his players. Wembley & promotion.

Manish Bhasin @_manishbhasin
Congrats to Bradford! Promoted to League One after 3-0 win v Northampton. Bantams late charge for POs perfectly timed. Big club on the up

Gary Lineker @GaryLineker
Well played Bradford City. Good luck in league One.

BBC Sport's Ian Woodcock at Wembley: "In contrast to Northampton's struggles Bradford look like they're playing at home out there..." #bcafc

===========================

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22582129

Bradford City: Phil Parkinson delighted by dream start
By Ian Woodcock BBC Sport at Wembley

Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson praised his side's first-half performance after they beat Northampton 3-0 in the League Two play-off final.

The Bantams were three up within half an hour against the Cobblers, thanks to goals from James Hanson, Rory McArdle and Nahki Wells.

"It couldn't have gone much better for us really," Parkinson said.

"To be 3-0 up at half time is beyond your wildest dreams and the second half was about seeing the job through."

He continued: "I told the lads at the break that we weren't there yet because if we gave them a chink of light then they're a good enough team to take it.

"I thought there was a ruthlessness about us in the second half and Rory McArdle and Andrew Davies were immense at the back.

"The strikers take the headlines, but the way we defended, won headers and blocked things was just as important as our goals."

The victory ended Bradford's stay in the bottom tier of English football after six seasons and earned their first promotion since they went up to the Premier League in 1999.

The Bantams were beaten 5-0 by Swansea in the League Cup final in February and Parkinson felt that recent Wembley experience played a part in his side's win.

"Without a shadow of doubt it helped us," he said.

"When we've had the celebrations this week I'll sit down with the chairmen and hopefully we can get it finished."

"You can be worried about how your family are going to get down and the extra press attention and demands. It can drain the players.

"We took that away from the players this time and said 'we're here to do a job and finish our season in style'."

The 45-year-old is now out of contract at Valley Parade.

However, Bradford chairman Mark Lawn said earlier in the week that it was a formality that the former Colchester, Hull and Charlton boss will be with the club next season.

Parkinson is hopeful that he, along with coaches Steve Parkin and Nick Allenby, will be able to sign new contracts in the near future.

"I've been saying all along that I hope it gets sorted," he added.

"I said when we all came together that I'd drive them mad and ask them to go above and beyond the call of duty but that we'd all get their rewards.

"I'd like to see everyone signs contracts at the same time. When we've had the celebrations this week I'll sit down with the chairmen and hopefully we can get it finished."

===========================

Bradford City giant awoken to star in The One Show
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429420.Bradford_City_giant_awoken_to_star_in_The_One_Show

City 3, Northampton Town 0

Make room Molineux; bring on Bramall Lane – and don't bother waiting up Dagenham.

Phil Parkinson's Bantams bandwagon can plan next season's route around the highways and byways of League One.

After enduring six years in football's basement, City will rejoin a division where they will no longer be the team with the target on their backs; the side that everybody wants to have a pop at.

No, leave that dubious honour for Wolves and the likes of Sheffield United. After too long as the 'freak' act in the lowest league, City are back on a footing more suited to the size of the club and their surroundings.

And this, we hope, is only the start. We've heard the talk of bottoming out and bouncing back for years; Saturday afternoon was the first evidence that the giant seriously is beginning to stir.

For the neutral watching on television, it looked as much of a mismatch as City's last trip down Wembley Way in February. One team dominated while the other froze in the spotlight.

Only this time the boot was gloriously on the other foot. Where the Bantams had chased Swansea shadows in the Capital One Cup, it was Northampton's turn to trail hopelessly in the slipstream.

Drama? You'd see more in an average episode of Emmerdale. But for scenes of sheer joy and mass pandemonium, you'd be hard pressed to top the reaction of the west end of this famous stadium.

Borussia Dortmund's famed fans will cram into those seats next Saturday for the Champions League final. Bet they still won't top the decibels generated by the travelling Bantams as a decade or more of bottled-up hurt and frustration came tumbling out in that glorious opening half hour.

A City triple blast and the contest was over. Call it a play-off final? This was just a normal day in the office.

And that's exactly how Parkinson had wanted it. Nothing flash, nothing fancy; an afternoon of graft and hard work to seal a season that will rightly take its place among the very best in the club's 110-year history.

Northampton had done all the traditional pre-Wembley bit with the suit fittings and the extra press conferences. Not for City, though.

They had gone through that rigmarole in February ahead of the Swansea game. This time it was strictly business.

Everything had been prepared as if it was a normal league trip to London. The media requirements were restricted to the usual Thursday lunchtime; when the players had an early look at the pitch, they appeared in tracksuits.

They could have been playing Brentford just down the road rather than in a promotion-clinching decider.

"That was the key for us," said Parkinson. "We had the experience of being here before and all the build-up, whether it's the suits, ticket demands, how your family's going to get down, new outfits for your wife and kids.

"It can drain a lot of energy from you, so we took that away from the lads this time. We were here to do a job to finish off our season in style.

"Temperament is a big word in football; it means handling the occasion and this was a far bigger game than the Capital One Cup final. It shapes the future of the club and the players handled it really well."

That approach even continued with the dignified way they sought out their beaten Northampton opponents with sympathetic handshakes before the post-match celebrations kicked in. City really did the job with class.

And when it came, the wild outpouring of emotion was not restricted to the supporters. In the royal box, Mark Lawn threatened to squeeze the life out of Gary Jones with a bear hug before the skipper lifted the trophy.

But then Lawn, like co-owner Julian Rhodes, remains a massive supporter; two fans at the heart of this club who have gone – in their manager's words – "above and beyond" through tough times when others may have chucked it in.

Lawn's permanent beam at the post-match promotion party back at Valley Parade showed how much this long-awaited day in the sun meant to those whose financial input kept the club ticking through the hairiest moments.

For every City fan, the best thing about the game was the absence of any hint of a Northampton comeback. Where was the nail-gnawing tension that these events are supposed to create?

City equalled the most emphatic play-off final win at this level and they did it before we'd even got to half-time. Their stranglehold over the Cobblers – only two defeats in 20 now – was maintained with three almost identical goals.

The talk beforehand had centred on how City's defenders were going to handle Northampton man mountain Adebayo Akinfenwa. But that was a complete red herring as Akinfenwa, all 17 stone of him, was left on the bench by Aidy Boothroyd.

Instead, it was City's heavyweight attack that took centre stage as James Hanson and Nahki Wells reduced the Cobblers' rearguard to a gibbering wreck.

The big, wide Wembley surface was the perfect stage for Kyel Reid and Garry Thompson to stretch the play and whip in early crosses for the front two to do their damage. Northampton's defence were pulled here, there and everywhere.

And for a team who are built on creating pressure from long throw-ins, the generous pitch dimensions neutralised much of that threat. Boothroyd had fielded two wingers as well but they never threatened to repeat the success of their City counterparts.

With Andrew Davies and Rory McArdle effectively muzzling Clive Platt, Northampton's attack packed the punch of a feather duster.

City jumped straight out of the blocks and deservedly went ahead after 15 minutes. James Meredith backed up Reid and when his cross eluded everybody, Thompson chipped it back in for Hanson to head home.

It was the scenario that the local lad had dreamed of as he soaked up the cheers from scoring at Wembley – and the Co-op song was still ringing round when City made it two.

Again it began from the left, this time with a short corner to Reid. His centre, like Meredith's just before, was on the deep side but Nathan Doyle came round the back to clip it in for McArdle to get in front of Clarke Carlisle with a thumping finish.

It was the defender's first goal since the one against Aston Villa made famous by Martin Tyler's shriek – he sure saves them for the big occasion.

This was pure fantasy for the Bantams but the onslaught was not finished. Reid's cross was headed back by Thompson and Wells bagged his usual goal against Northampton with a close-range volley. Referee Keith Stroud might as well have called a halt after 28 minutes.

City's record-breaking campaign signed off on the highest note possible. They can enjoy the rest in the knowledge of a job brilliantly done.

The post-season trip to Vegas, which had been brought up after Wembley part one, may not be happening now. But this team have already landed the jackpot.

Welcome back Bradford City.

Attendance: 47,127

===========================

The links

Phil Parkinson hails Bantams' promotion success
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429083.Parkinson_hails_Bantams__promotion_success

Hanson delighted with Bradford City victory
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429096.Hanson__Quick_start_was_crucial

Boothroyd: Bradford City were deserved winners
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429102.Wembley_reaction__We_failed_to_turn_up__says_Boothroyd

Wells: I'm going nowhere!
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429067.Wells_pledges_future_to_Bantams_after_promotion_success

Reid hails Bradford City's fan-tastic promotion success
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429090.Reid_hails_Bradford_City_s_fan_tastic_promotion_success

Playing in League One will be miles better
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429254.Playing_in_League_One_will_be_miles_better__says_Bradford_City_hitman_Hanson/
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429254.print/

We can be One of best sides in third tier
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429256.Bradford_City__We_can_be_One_of_best_sides_in_third_tier__says_Thompson/

Allamby hails Bradford City's marathon men
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429334.Allamby_hails_Bradford_City_s_marathon_men/

Phil Parkinson's the man for Bradford City
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429439.Lawn__Parkinson___s_the_man_for_Bradford_City/

Parkinson the driving force guiding Bradford City away from abyss
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429382.Parkinson_the_driving_force_guiding_Bradford_City_away_from_abyss/

Wembley proves the ultimate bonding session
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429312.It___s_up__up_and_hooray_for_a_club_united_in_tragedy_and_now_triumph/

Nahki Wells under contract but...
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10429454.Bradford_City_hot_shot_Wells_could_be_sold_to_highest_bidder/

Fat man thanks Fat Man
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10431012.Lawn_thanks_Evans_for_writing_off_Bradford_City_promotion_hopes

McLaughlin thrilled City can wave goodbye to League Two
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10430704.McLaughlin_thrilled_Bradford_City_can_wave_goodbye_to_League_Two/

===========================

The internationals

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/20/sports/soccer/20iht-soccer20.html?_r=1&

The first Bermudian to score at Wembley
http://bermudasun.bm/Content/SPORTS/Sports/Article/Live--Wells-first-Bermudian-to-score-at-Wembley/8/203/66601
"72: Town whip in a cross but I can hardly be bothered to describe it
because it lacks any semblance of threat. "

http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/aussies-abroad/news/1152270/Meredith-ends-roller-coaster-season-on-a-high

===========================

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

CFML Special - Possible credit and debit card fraud of cards used to buy Play Off Final tickets

Call your card holder and check your online statement

Ticket Zone Customer Services team 08444 77 77 74.

Club statement
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/ticket-zone-statement-822808.aspx#JzTfhDOyki7G3HCj.99

T&A
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/10422084.Fans__hit_by_fraud__after_buying_Wembley_tickets/

http://www.claretandbanter.co.uk
http://www.claretandbanter.co.uk/threads/35126-Check-your-accounts/

In detail
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/ticket-zone-statement-822808.aspx#JzTfhDOyki7G3HCj.99

PUBLISHED

10:20 15th May 2013

Ticket Zone has responded to the concerns raised by some Bradford City fans regarding recent purchases for the npower League 2 Play-off Final made via their systems.

A very small number of queries have been reported to Ticket Zone and these are under further investigation. All these occurrences have been forwarded to their card retail banking providers, who are investigating the matter further. No evidence has been found, at this time, of any anomalies or security issues within Ticket Zone's web sales structure.

Over the past nine days, Ticket Zone has sold in excess of 35,000 tickets for both Bradford and other clubs via their site, in addition to all the other normal event work they undertake.

No issues have occurred with any other bookers or any other events being sold via the site or call centre.

If any Bradford City fan has an issue with irregular card activity they should, first of all, contact their banks and then inform the Ticket Zone Customer Services team, who will then continue to investigate the problem. The number to call if any problems have occurred is 08444 77 77 74.

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/10422084.Fans__hit_by_fraud__after_buying_Wembley_tickets/
Fans 'hit by fraud' after buying Wembley tickets

6:19pm Wednesday 15th May 2013

By Hannah Postles

A number of Bradford City fans who bought their League Two play-off final tickets online claim they have been victims of fraud, including one with a £930 rogue charge on her credit card.

Supporters took to internet forums and social networking sites yesterday to complain that money had been taken from their bank and credit card accounts after they bought tickets for Bantams' Wembley clash against Northampton on Saturday using website Ticket Zone.

A spokesman for the company said a "very small number of queries" had been reported, which were under investigation, but there was "no evidence" of any security issues with its internet sales structure.

Sharon Mason, 43, of Steeton, claimed she received a phone call from Barclays bank yesterday asking her if she had made a £930.80 payment to a Paypal account using her credit card, which she had used to buy tickets for the game last week.

She said: "When they told me I couldn't believe it, I felt my stomach churn and just thought 'oh my God'. Luckily I'm covered and I won't be charged, but my card has had to be cancelled.

"After finding out, I looked on the internet and saw a few people on Twitter saying the same had happened."

Richard Burke, 29, of Wibsey, claims he discovered a £50 'pending transaction' on his bank account yesterday, and that two of his friends discovered £70 missing from their accounts, after using the site to buy tickets He said: "I was told the charges were made to O2 and Vodaphone, and they were made during 5pm-6pm on Tuesday, while I was driving home from work.

"It was a new bank card which I had only used once. It has now had to be cancelled.

"Thankfully I only had £50 in that account, which they took down to zero. I just want my friends and family to be made aware of this."

Others wrote on Facebook and Twitter of having money taken from their accounts.

A Bradford City spokesman said the club had been contacted by some supporters and their claims had been passed onto Ticket Zone, which is providing an online ticket service.

A Ticket Zone spokesman said: "A very small number of queries have been reported to Ticket Zone and these are under further investigation.

"All these occurrences have been forwarded to our card retail banking providers who are investigating the matter further.

"No evidence has been found, at this time, of any anomalies or security issues within our web sales structure.

"Over the past nine days Ticket Zone has sold in excess of 35,000 tickets for both Bradford and other clubs via our site in addition to all the other normal event work we undertake. No issues have occurred with any other bookers or any other events being sold via the site or call centre.

"If any Bradford City fans have an issue with irregular card activity they should, first of all, contact their banks and then inform the Ticket Zone Customer Services team who will then continue to investigate the problem.

"The number to call if any problems have occurred is 08444 777774."

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Wemb13y Build up #2, last tickets, new shirt, new sponsor

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

Last chance for tickets

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/wembley-general-sale-815707.aspx

As of this Tuesday evening, just over 23,000 match tickets have been sold for the npower League 2 Play-Off Final. Tickets can still be bought

either over the phone - 08444 77 77 74 - or online

===========================

Extra trains being put on for the Play-off Final by East Coast.
Leaves Forster Sq 0751-Kings Cross 1123; return Kings Cross 1903-Forster Square 2154.

This is in addition to the usual direct train: Forster Square 0733-Kings Cross 1029; return Kings Cross 1930-Forster Square 2222.

Grand Central go from Interchange 0651-Kings Cross 1007-return Kings Cross 1923-interchange 2224.

===========================

City's travelling army can win battle of the fans
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10412799.Bradford_City_s_travelling_army_can_win_battle_of_the_fans_at_Wembley/?ref=eb

Davies backed to muscle up for Bradford City
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10414680.Davies_backed_to_muscle_up_for_Bradford_City

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10416191.print/

Bradford City stalwart Jack happy to be back

7:00am Tuesday 14th May 2013

By Simon Parker

City today unveiled a new kit and a very familiar sponsor for next season.

The Bantams have revealed their home shirts for the 2013-14 campaign – which they hope will kick off in League One.

And JCT600's name will be emblazoned across the front once again after a seven-year absence.

The Bradford-based motor group have signed a three-year deal with City to renew a partnership that ran from 1997 to 2006 – a dramatic period that saw the club reach the Premier League but also suffer two administrations.

JCT founder and City honorary life president Jack Tordoff said: "Everything was thrown in during that time but we're delighted to be back. We feel we belong there.

"We're still Bradford City supporters whatever happens. But the club are going to achieve something eventually and, as it's turned out, this year they've achieved a lot.

"I didn't go to Wembley for the cup final because we had booked a holiday but I'm going this weekend."I think we stand a fair chance. It's more of an equal contest with Northampton and Bradford City and the experience of playing at Wembley before has got to do some good.

"I like the look of the new shirt – and it would look wonderful in League One. For a city the size of Bradford, the club have been stuck in League Two for too long."

City will step out in August in predominantly amber shirts with a vertical claret stripe. The shorts and socks are both claret.

Replica shirts will be available from tomorrow and the club anticipate a pre-Wembley rush.

City director of operations David Baldwin said: "The kit is changed annually as part of the agreement with Nike, so you are reinventing yourself each year.

"The hooped kit this season has been a popular design but this is very crisp and clean and I think it will be well received.

"It's fantastic we've been able to do this sponsorship deal with a company that's firmly established in Bradford. Hopefully we can bring the feelgood factor back to this city.

"Jack's been there right the way through. It's like a 'coming home'.

"The continuity is important and that's something we've tried to instil in everything the club have done from 2007 onwards. We want a feel of progressive forward steps but alongside firm foundations and relationships."

Details of the away kit will be revealed later in the month.

Meanwhile, the club estimate they will make between £200,000 and £300,000 from their play-off participation.

===========================

West Yorkshire's Halifax Town beat Northamptonshire's Brackley Town in the play off final, lets hope its a sign for a repeat next week.

===========================

Archive - The build up news

Kit: City In Away Colours

Tickets

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/wembley-tickets-809288.aspx

Keith Stroud
http://www.soccerbase.com/referees/referee.sd?referee_id=885
Liners
Steven Copeland
Jake Hillie

Sensational Bantams return to their second home
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10401242.Sensational_Bantams_return_to_their_second_home

Nahki Wells: I'm saving my final two goals of season for Wembley
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10401252.Bradford_City_hero_Wells__I_m_saving_my_final_two_goals_of_season_for_Wembley/

Phil Parkinson in a Wembley wonderland
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10401280.Bradford_City_boss_Parkinson_in_a_Wembley_wonderland/

We have a score to settle at Wembley
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10402128.We_have_a_score_to_settle_at_Wembley__says_Bradford_City_hitman_Hanson/

39,000 reasons to be cheerful
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10402125.39_000_reasons_to_be_cheerful_if_you_are_a_Bradford_City_fan/

Bradford City focused on completing job
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10407094.Bradford_City_focused_on_completing_job/

What's in store...the Sequel t-shirt
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/10407412.Bantams____return_to_Wembley_gives_hope_of_another_bumper_year_for_club_store/

Sir Alex Ferguson never forgot City welcome
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10407448.Ferguson_a_fan_of_Bradford_City_hospitality

===========================

Friday, May 10, 2013

Wemb13y 2: Return of the Bantams : Build Up - ticket news (guessing you have them already) etc

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

===========================

City have got the West side again at Wembley.

Tickets are priced as follows:
Category 5 tickets are £26, £13 concessions
Category 4 tickets are £32, £16 concessions
Category 3 tickets are £38, £19 concessions
Category 2 tickets are £48, £24 concessions
Category 1 tickets are £60, £30 concessions

===========================

Ticket info

http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/wembley-tickets-809288.aspx

Kit

Wembley: City In Away Colours

===========================

Ref for the final -
Keith Stroud
http://www.soccerbase.com/referees/referee.sd?referee_id=885
Liners
Steven Copeland
Jake Hillie

2 fourth officials cos it's the final

===========================

Competitions

http://www.poweradegb.com/poweryourclub.html

===========================

The build up news

Sensational Bantams return to their second home
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10401242.Sensational_Bantams_return_to_their_second_home

Nahki Wells: I'm saving my final two goals of season for Wembley
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10401252.Bradford_City_hero_Wells__I_m_saving_my_final_two_goals_of_season_for_Wembley/

Phil Parkinson in a Wembley wonderland
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10401280.Bradford_City_boss_Parkinson_in_a_Wembley_wonderland/

We have a score to settle at Wembley
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10402128.We_have_a_score_to_settle_at_Wembley__says_Bradford_City_hitman_Hanson/

39,000 reasons to be cheerful
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10402125.39_000_reasons_to_be_cheerful_if_you_are_a_Bradford_City_fan/

Bradford City focused on completing job
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10407094.Bradford_City_focused_on_completing_job/

What's in store...the Sequel t-shirt
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/10407412.Bantams____return_to_Wembley_gives_hope_of_another_bumper_year_for_club_store/

Sir Alex Ferguson never forgot City welcome
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10407448.Ferguson_a_fan_of_Bradford_City_hospitality

===========================

WEMBLEY: CITY IN AWAY COLOURS

Having finished higher than opponents Bradford City in the league table,
Northampton Town will wear their home kit a week on Saturday with the
Bantams donning their gold and black away shirts.

Keith Stroud of Hampshire will referee the game.

Around 6,000 tickets are thought to have been sold to NTFC season tickets on
the first day of availability. General sale begins on Thursday morning.

Bradford City are said to have sold 12,000 so far.

Bradford skipper Gary Jones believes his side are finding form at the right
time after a marathon season which will see them play their 64th game of the
campaign at Wembley.

Speaking after the semi-final win at Burton he said: "If we play like that,
we can beat anyone, I honestly believe that. On a good pitch at Wembley and
in a game that will be on an even keel.

"Against Swansea (in the League Cup final), that wasn't the case because
they are a top team and we hardly saw the ball during the whole 90 minutes.
But we will be up against a team from our division and that can only be a
plus."

===========================

Player of the year

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/10404569.Captain_marvel_strikes_again_at_Bradford_City_player_of_the_year_awards

Captain marvel strikes again at Bradford City player of the year awards

7:00am Wednesday 8th May 2013

By Simon Parker

Gary Jones is simply fan-tastic after being voted T&A City player of the year by the supporters.

Captain marvel Jones lifted the top prize at last night's Valley Parade awards ceremony – and he was also named the most consistent performer.

Jones pipped Andrew Davies and Stephen Darby for the trophy based on the marks out of ten that accompany each T&A match report.

But right back Darby got the nod from his team-mates when he was announced as the City players' player of the year.

The 650-strong audience, more than double the usual number, were in celebratory mood as City build up for a second trip to Wembley in the League

Two play-off final.

Jones, who was last week named in the division's team of the year and was also shortlisted for the League Two player of the year, acknowledged

the efforts of those around him during this record-breaking campaign.

He said: "The team spirit among this group of lads is absolutely frightening.

"I thought this season couldn't get any better but after beating Burton on Sunday it certainly has.

"To get to Wembley twice in a season after playing 63 games with the same bunch of lads is phenomenal. It's an absolutely amazing achievement."

Jones topped the consistency chart with an average mark of 7.17. Centre half Davies was second (7.03) with Darby narrowly behind his fellow

defender on 6.98.

Jones, the oldest player at the club, will be 36 a fortnight after the Wembley clash with Northampton. But he has played 53 times this season and

only Rory McArdle and James Hanson have started more games.

Kyel Reid, who won the consistency award last season, admits the veteran midfielder continues to defy the odds.

Reid said: "Gary Jones just keeps on going. He might be 35 but he doesn't stop.

"That rubs off on the rest of the players and gives you that boost to find an extra bit of energy. I hope I'm like that at his age!"

===========================

Monday, May 06, 2013

L2-PO-SF2 W3-1 W5-4 agg (A) Burton Albion Sunday May 5, 2013. K.O. 12PM. #bcafc #2013playoffs

"Wembley called: Your usual seat Sir?"

Final info
http://www.football-league.co.uk/play-offs/news/20130422/play-off-dates-confirmed_2293328_3139175

Ticket info
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/news/article/wembley-tickets-809288.aspx

Read this article online
http://texasbantam.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/46810838356/

The "Social media Corner"
http://paper.li/f-1315926867
http://www.bradfordcity.tv/

===========================

Match Media & Stats

Pictures
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/sportbcfc/sport_bantams_pics2012/
(The T&A picture link will dfault to the last match for which pictures are available)

"Last Match" Highlights on Bantams Player
http://www.bradfordcityfc.co.uk/page/player/LastMatch/0,,10266~1612005~36,00.html

BBC highlights (uk only)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22328159

Pulse audio
http://www.pulse.co.uk/on-air/pulse-sport/
Match Highlights

Home Leg audio highlights
http://mm.gmstatic.net.s3.amazonaws.com/74/851998.mp3

Away Leg audio highlights
http://mm.gmstatic.net.s3.amazonaws.com/74/709859.mp3

Post match
Youtube vids of celebrations at Burton
http://www.freenewspos.com/english/video/beat%20Burton/1

from the stands
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EX-r_uSX88
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWHMTY8igEQ

Match stats
http://www.soccerbase.com/teams/team.sd?team_id=234#teamTabs=results
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22328159
http://m.espn.go.com/soccer/gamecast?gameId=365011&action=stats&lang=EN&wjb=

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Final whistle - match report

Wembley here we come as Bradford City knock out Burton

2:28pm Sunday 5th May 2013

Burton Albion 1 Bradford City 3

City win 5-4 on aggregate

City will return to Wembley later this month after overturning a first-leg deficit to beat Burton in the npower League Two play-off semi-finals.

The Capital One Cup finalists, 3-2 down from Thursday's game at Valley Parade, recorded their first ever win at the Pirelli Stadium courtesy of

Nahki Wells' double either side of James Hanson's goal.

Jacques Maghoma levelled up the tie from the penalty spot but Burton could not get themselves back on terms again after Wells had struck his 25th

goal of the season - and his fifth against Albion this campaign.

The visitors opened the scoring after 27 minutes from a Burton attack.

Jon McLaughlin made a routine save from McCrory's free-kick and quickly distributed the ball to James Meredith, who knocked it long.

Albion centre-half Marcus Holness tried to head back to his goalkeeper but did not get enough on it and Wells nipped in to poke past Stuart

Tomlinson.

Hanson put City ahead on aggregate for the first time after 50 minutes.

Wells' persistence enabled him to poke the ball into the path of Hanson and the big striker drilled a right-foot shot into the bottom left-hand

corner of the net from 20 yards out.

However, five minutes later the hosts levelled up the tie with Jacques Maghoma's penalty after a foul by Garry Thompson.

But Burton were level for only two minutes as Hanson set up Wells to spin and score his second of the game.

City survived some late Burton pressure and will return to Wembley for the final on May 18 where they will play Northampton.

===========================

When the dust settled - match report

Sensational Bantams return to their second home

7:00am Monday 6th May 2013

By Simon Parker

They should erect a new sign at the end of the M606: Welcome to Bradford, twinned with Wembley.

For the second time in less than three months, Phil Parkinson's remarkable troops will be stepping out at the national stadium.

And this time who would dare bet against them?

The marathon that began 267 days ago at a basking Meadow Lane will finish on May 18 with game number 64 on the grandest stage of them all.

The fans had queued overnight for tickets to witness yesterday's latest chapter in this incredible tale. They would not have swapped the long

wait for anything.

These are great days to be a Bantams supporter. Just when you think this season cannot get any better, something else even more magical pops up.

Top scorer Nahki Wells scored twice; James Hanson clocked up a half-century of career goals with the sweetest finish of the bunch. But this was a

victory built on courage and commitment across the pitch.

Only one team in the fourth tier had ever come back from losing the first play-off leg at home to go through – and Shrewsbury had needed

penalties four years ago.

The Bantams emulated that feat without requiring a fifth shoot-out of their season and nobody could argue that they did not deserve it.

After the defensive woes from the first game, Andrew Davies came straight back in after his ban in place of Michael Nelson. Kyel Reid was also

passed fit to start and Nathan Doyle returned to central midfield.

Burton boss Gary Rowett, unsurprisingly, stuck with the same line-up that had gained the advantage at Valley Parade.

Jacques Maghoma ran City ragged that night and immediately threatened to reprise the act from Burton's first attack of the game before firing

narrowly wide.

Davies wasted no time getting into Calvin Zola but Burton's two-goal hero from Thursday seized on slack marking from a throw-in to hustle a shot

off target.

The City centre half then got himself in the right place at the right time to block Alex MacDonald's dangerous header after left back Anthony

O'Connor had burrowed his way to the line.

Jon McLaughlin safely clutched Robbie Weir's header as the home side continued to force the early pace.

But then just like Burton had done in the first game, City stunned their hosts by breaking the deadlock after 26 minutes thanks to an alert piece

of anticipation from Wells.

Marcus Holness attempted to head James Meredith's long ball back to his keeper but it fell short and the Bermudian was on it in a flash to guide

past the stranded keeper.

With the away end in full voice, City came knocking once more and Wells was bundled over in the Burton penalty area as he reacted first to

Hanson's knockdown. But he was coming back from an offside position and the assistant's flag was already up.

City's tails were up but they still had to be wary of the home threat and McLaughlin beat out a well-struck Weir drive from the edge of the box.

Zola cleverly flicked the ball off the floor to release MacDonald but the winger was crowded out by three pink shirts as he advanced on goal.

Zola was once again a handful for City's centre halves and rose to meet Damien McCrory's free-kick right on half-time but his header lacked the

oomph to worry McLaughlin.

But while Burton had created the bulk of the chances, City could look back on a first half well done to throw the tie right back into the melting

pot.

Their attempts to do "another Blackpool" were certainly being aided by the din created by the 1,700 travelling fans, who made it feel like a City

home game.

They got even louder five minutes after the break as the visitors doubled their lead – and edged ahead on aggregate for the first time.

It came from a tremendous strike by Hanson and his weaker right foot. The big man flicked on Rory McArdle's clearing header and then capitalised

on good strength by Wells, who held off Ian Sharps for his strike partner to beat Tomlinson with an angled drive.

Burton needed some inspiration and Maghoma quickly supplied it. A deft turn on halfway left Stephen Darby on his backside and the winger advanced

on the City box before tumbling under Garry Thompson's challenge from behind.

McLaughlin and Doyle were both booked for complaining before the keeper was beaten by Maghoma's well-placed spot-kick despite going the right

way.

Burton switched to 4-4-2 by bringing on Billy Kee but the sub striker was a distant spectator as City immediately restored the two-goal gap.

McLaughlin's free-kick was flicked on by Hanson and Wells spun off Sharps to beat the diving Tomlinson with a bundled finish into the corner. It

was nowhere near the quality of Hanson's strike but meant just as much as the City end descended into bedlam.

The contest had become a wild shoot-out as Burton blasted back again. McLaughlin parried from Maghoma then MacDonald's drive took a deflection

into the side-netting.

Parkinson looked to steady the ship by replacing Reid with Will Atkinson. Nobody was too upset to see Zola going off for Burton as Michael Symes

arrived to a chorus of "City reject".

Nerves were fraying all over the ground and Parkinson ran on the edge of the pitch to complain that a handball should have been given against

Anthony O'Connor in the Burton box.

The City boss was up again as Wells was tripped by Zander Diamond. But the foul was given right on the edge of the box as Diamond became the

fifth player booked.

Wells was threatening to take on the Brewers backline single-handed and danced his way in once more, only for Damien to slide across and block

the shot.

The rebound fell for Hanson, who could have sealed it with a fourth goal but lifted the ball over from 12 yards.

Fourth official Paul Tierney threw City a curve ball when the board flashed up with six minutes of stoppages.

But Hanson led the last-ditch defending in his own goalmouth to deny Diamond – nobody was going to spoil the party.

===========================

Twitter accounts of players
@Meredith_james
@g11klt (Gary Thompson)
@willako16 (Will Atkinson)
@Reidy11 Kyel Reid
@AlConnell83 Alan Connell
@nahkiwells
@carlmacoidh6

===========================

Bradford City - Stopping the slide

    1999-2000: 17th, Premier League
    2000-01: 20th, Premier League (R)
    2001-02: 15th, Division One
    2002-03: 19th, Division One
    2003-04: 23rd, Division One (R)
    2004-05: 11th, League One
    2005-06: 11th, League One
    2006-07: 22nd, League One (R)
    2007-08: 10th, League Two
    2008-09: 9th, League Two
    2009-10: 14th, League Two
    2010-11: 18th, League Two
    2011-12: 18th, League Two
    2012-13: 7th, League Two (League Cup and play-off finalists)

===========================

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22421986

Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson praises Bantams strikers
By Ian Woodcock BBC Sport at the Pirelli Stadium

Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson praised strikers James Hanson and Nahki Wells after his side reached the League Two play-off final with a 5-4

aggregate win over Burton.

Wells scored either side of a fine striker from Hanson to give the Bantams a 3-1 win at the Pirelli Stadium.

He told BBC Sport: "I thought the front two were unplayable today.

"We thought we'd change one or two things slightly to put them right up the pitch and it nullified them."
Bradford City - Stopping the slide

He added: "Nahki's second goal was a real goalscorer's effort and Hanson's strike was a Premier League finish. His overall play is getting better

and better."

Bradford will face Northampton in the play-off final on Saturday, 18 May in what will be their 64th match of the season.

The Bantams, who reached the League Cup final earlier this year, will be playing their first play-off final since 1996 when Chris Kamara led them

into the second tier with a 2-0 win over Notts County.

Parkinson's side were 3-1 down at half-time in the first leg against the Brewers and the manager was delighted with the attitude of his team to

turn the tie around.

"You can't take away the enormity of the achievement," he said.

"When it mattered the most we produced and I think that's really important. Today was a massive test and we passed it.

"I think a lesser group of players wouldn't have responded in the way we did on Thursday. We said to the lads that if we could play in a

disciplined, structured way then we'd have a great chance."

===========================

Interesting stats for League Two attendance 2012-2013:

http://stats.football365.co.uk/dom/ENG/D3/attend.html

===========================

Bradford City hero Wells: I'm saving my final two goals of season for Wembley

9:50am Monday 6th May 2013

By Simon Parker

Nahki Wells reached his goal tally for the season and then warned: I'm not finished yet.

A deadly double from City's top scorer lifted his haul to 25 – the figure he had set himself before a ball was kicked.

But he has promised to score two more at Wembley now to clinch the club's return to League One.

Wells said: "Twenty five is the exact number I set out for myself to score at the beginning of the season so I'm delighted to reach it.

"But I know there are more to come yet. I've got two more in my locker – I'll save them for Wembley.

"I've scored against Northampton already so I'm confident that I can do it again and help us get promoted.

"It's a big occasion, not only for myself but all the players. It's been a phenomenal season and we all deserve it.

"The chairmen and fans are finally happy that we've got a team that can do the city and the club proud."

Wells deflected praise from his own performance on to the travelling army who roared City to victory at the Pirelli Stadium. Many of them had queued through the night to snap up the 1,700 tickets.

Wells admitted: "That's unbelievable support. I can't imagine myself doing what they've done.

"They have been the 12th man throughout our entire season. Without them, I don't think any of it was possible.

"It's not easy for some people working nine to five every day and spending their earnings to come and watch us play. We'll do whatever it takes to make them proud.

"They are such big supporters of the club and we want to do our best and make sure we put a smile on their faces.

"Promotion would do that for everyone. That's the most important thing.

"We need to keep climbing the leagues and we've given ourselves a good chance to start that."

City dismantled the best home record in the Football League to seal their return to Wembley. Burton had won 12 of their previous 13 games at the Pirelli.

But Wells felt the Bantams could have won by more.

"To come here and beat this team at home comfortably is unbelievable. In my opinion, it could have been five.

"I'm not saying it just because I play for Bradford City and I'm biased but I think we're the best team in the league. If we do as the manager sets us up and we're all on our game, I don't think anyone can beat us.

"It was brilliant the way we turned the tie around. There was some magnificent attacking play and to keep them at bay with only scoring one goal is a great achievement – everyone deserves credit.

"It's been a long journey. A few weeks back, we were sitting 11th or 12th in the table and had almost written off our season.

"But the manager's done well, he regrouped us. We got over the loss to Swansea in the cup final and turned our season around.

"We finished as the form team in the table and that was the best way to creep into the play-offs. It was very unexpected and a lot of teams were shocked when we did."

===========================

Bradford City boss Parkinson in a Wembley wonderland

7:00am Monday 6th May 2013

By Simon Parker

City are gearing up for another trip to Wembley as proud boss Phil Parkinson roared: "We produced when it mattered most."

The magnificent Bantams booked a League Two play-off final showdown against Northampton on May 18 after yesterday's 3-1 win at Burton.

Top scorer Nahki Wells (2) and James Hanson sent them back down Wembley way with a 5-4 aggregate triumph against the side who had the best home form in the whole Football League.

Parkinson said: "You've got to remember some players and managers never get to Wembley. Supporters follow teams their entire lives and don't see them there – and we're going back for a second time in one season.

"There's a determination about the team. This was a massive test and they've come through it again.

"We've had Wembley, Villa twice, Arsenal and Wigan and after games of that magnitude it's very difficult to reproduce performances against the likes of Dagenham and Fleetwood away.

"But this group of lads have done it and you can't take away the enormity of that achievement. We said those big games this season would be important for the players in the future and once again we have produced when it mattered most."

Parkinson sensed the tide had turned at Valley Parade when City rallied from 3-1 down at half-time. Going into the return trailing by just one, he was confident of coming back.

"I told the lads before the game that it wouldn't be the end of the world if we didn't win. We'd still be alive and still have our families.

"But what we wanted to do was play really well. Concen-trate on the performance and let the result take care of itself – you saw a team that did that. As much as I was disappointed on Thursday, a lesser group of players would have folded and not responded as we did in the second half.

"Some might have gone under losing 3-1 at home with the big crowd and spotlight of the TV cameras. But we didn't and that tells you all you need to know."

Parkinson lavished extra praise on the front two for their "unplayable" double act.

He added: "We thought Burton would play the same system so we changed one or two things slightly. They were so difficult to handle.

"Hanson's strike with his right foot was a Premiership finish. His all-round play is getting better and better."

Joint-chairman Mark Lawn, who shaved his head for luck, singled out Andrew Davies for his bravery against Burton targetman Calvin Zola. The centre half finished the match with his head covered in a bandage.

Lawn said: "Davo is a great professional and kept going. He literally bled for us.

"It must be hard work when you're up against Zola because he's such a big unit. But everyone was magnificent.

"This side don't give up. Anybody else after losing the first leg at home would have caved in but this side weren't going to let that happen."

===========================