Blyth Spartans v Bradford (Park Avenue) | Saturday, 13 September 2025 - 15:00 | League

Blyth Spartans lost out narrowly to league leaders Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC in a valiant performance at Croft Park.

A late goal from the visitors separated the two sides after the Spartans failed to convert the chances they created.

Colin Myers' side seemed to have the upper hand in the first half. A dangerous set play saw Jack Vaulks' attempt cause Avenue problems, however, not enough to break the deadlock.

Spartans ended the first half as the team in control with chances falling to Matty Slocombe and Benji Shodeinde, but again they were unable to convert, meaning the sides went into half-time level.

Half time: Blyth Spartans 0-0 Bradford (Park Avenue)

Spartans captain Dean Briggs was replaced at half-time with Dan Maw taking his place. He was almost on the scoresheet immediately as goalkeeper Jack Hall misjudged his clearance, but the forward was unable to tap the ball into an empty net as Charlie Winfield was there to block the opportunity.

With the teams evenly matched in the second half, Spartans pushed hard to break the deadlock. Shodeinde went down in the box; however, the referee waved away any claims of a foul.

Moments later, Connor Brown had an altercation with Shodeinde, ending with Shodeinde on the ground holding his face, causing chaos from both sides, resulting in a booking for both players.

Despite Blyth looking the most likely side to take the lead in the second half, it looked as though nothing would be able to separate the two sides heading towards the end of the 90'.

However, a looping ball in behind the Spartans' defence allowed the visitors the opportunity to take the lead, which they did through Louie Chorlton. The initial effort was blocked by Spartans, but they were unable to prevent the rebound from being smashed home, handing the visitors all three points.

Full time: Blyth Spartans 0-1 Bradford (Park Avenue)