Bradford (Park Avenue) lose to Blackpool XI in thriller

Goals from Will Longbottom and Trialist R were not enough to down the young XI sent to Horsfall by the visitors, but Avenue could take heart from playing their part in a gripping contest.

The visitors opened the scoring midway through the first half, as a long-range effort was placed out of the grasp of George Sykes-Kenworthy.

Blackpool continued to apply the pressure following their goal and an exceptional cross looked destined to double their advantage, but the header was sent over the bar.

Mark Bower’s side bounced back after the break and Longbottom’s trademark set-piece ability paid off once again, as his strike left both the wall and goalkeeper helpless.

Avenue took the lead seven minutes later, with Trialist R remaining composed to place his effort past the stranded keeper, who was rooted to the spot.

The Seasiders equalised moments later though.

Substitute keeper Liam Hall did his best to defends a one-on-one opportunity but he was beaten with a calm finish.

The hosts conceded with moments left of the clash with that goal ultimately the deciding factor.

A Blackpool forward’s looping header was sent over a stranded Hall and bounced into the goal.

The game remained 3-2 despite some late pressure from the hosts, with this entertaining end-to-end fixture packed full of positives for both sides.

Danny Boshell spoke to the media to give his verdict on the clash, saying: “We always knew it was going to be a tough game against a young and bright side.

“We had to work hard and the players put the work in off the ball.”

Boshell then commented on his delight to see how far the side has progressed in pre-season:

He said: “We can’t throw people straight into it and we've got to build the levels up.

“We are going in the right direction but on the whole, I'm pleased with where we are.”

Avenue now have a few days until their final game of pre-season, when they will travel to local side Liversedge on Saturday, August 5.