IN the Northern Premier League East Division on Saturday, Bradford (Park Avenue) won 1-0 in a tense West Yorkshire derby at Garforth Town.

The game’s only goal came from ex-Bradford City prospect Connor Shanks early in the second half.

Avenue felt like they should have received an early penalty as Shanks went down in the box, however the referee was very quick to wave the appeal away.

With just over 15 minutes gone, Jack Normanton struck a fierce free kick for Avenue, which caused no trouble for the Garforth keeper as it was sent sailing over the bar.

Garforth’s first proper chance of the game then came from a corner, however it caused no trouble for debutant on loan keeper Jack Hall as it was met by an effort which well off target.

Just before the half-hour mark, Avenue almost found the back of the net as Sonny Whittingham tried to play the ball through to Kareem Hassan-Smith, but the marauding full back was flagged offside.

With only five minutes of the first half left, Avenue came so close to finding the net, however Garforth managed to clear the ball off the line.

On the brink of half-time, Normanton scuffed his shot in front of goal meaning that the two sides were deadlocked at the break.

Jack Normanton gave Garforth problems in the first half, but couldn't find the finish he was after.Jack Normanton gave Garforth problems in the first half, but couldn't find the finish he was after. (Image: John Rhodes.)

The first action of the second half saw Avenue’s Luke Hogg enter the referee’s notebook, but he and his teammates were soon celebrating as Shanks found the net with a tremendous volley.

Minutes later, Garforth nearly equalised with a great strike from Max Tweddle, however it flashed just inches wide.

With just over an hour of the game gone, Harry Flatters made a fantastic save in order to stop Bradford scoring a second.

Avenue failed to make the most of a great chance from a free kick late on and instead Hall made a brilliant save to deny Charlie Marshall a late equaliser.

As a result of the win, Bradford currently sit eighth in the table on 13 points, however, they are hoping to carry on this form to get further up the league.

Elliot’s men return to action on Wednesday as they visit Stocksbridge Park Steels.