Saturday, October 11, 2025 was a historic day for Bradford Hockey Club!
For the very first time, we proudly fielded two development teams—a huge step forward that shows just how much our club is growing. Thank you to everyone who made this milestone possible!

Ladies 1s V University of Leeds 6

Our Ladies 1s kicked off the weekend with an early 10:00 AM start in Leeds.
The match was a true test of grit! Skill-for-skill, the teams were evenly matched, with the students taking a narrow 1-0 lead into the break. The 11 players from Bradford dug deep and showed incredible heart. Despite facing a fresh-legged University bench, our team fought back with two goals in quick succession!

While the final score was a frustrating 2-5 loss, the effort, the battling, and the sheer amount of running from every single player were immense!
A huge shout-out and well done to Charlotte on her fantastic debut game!

Result: 2-5 (Scorers: Darcy C, Michelle W)

Men’s 1s V City of York 4
On a surprisingly sun-drenched Saturday at Bradford Girls’ Grammar School, a top-of-the-table clash took place between two undefeated sides — league leaders York and an equally unbeaten Bradford team who, despite an impressive home record, have struggled with consistency and availability on the road this season.

First Half

The opening half saw Bradford as the more dominant of the two sides, though the combination of a solid York defence and their ever-reliable goalkeeper proved difficult to overcome. Despite sustained pressure, York continued to threaten on the counter, but Bradford’s back five — marshalled superbly by centre-half Bavan — were equal to the task, breaking up play and transitioning smoothly into attack.

Bradford created multiple opportunities but were unable to find the opening goal, missing three short corners and several promising attacks. Just as the two-minute signal was given, York broke the deadlock. A turnover in midfield led to a swift counterattack, catching Bradford momentarily out of shape. A loose ball at the top of the D fell kindly to a York midfielder, who struck a low, controlled shot through a crowded area into the bottom corner. Despite Bradford’s best defensive efforts, the visitors took a 1–0 lead into half-time.

Half-Time

The mood in the Bradford camp remained optimistic. The players and coaching team knew they had enjoyed the better of the exchanges and were unfortunate to be behind. Tactical adjustments were discussed, focusing on exploiting York’s weaknesses rather than playing into their defensive strengths.

Second Half

Bradford started the second half strongly, showing renewed purpose and creativity. Within seven minutes, they were level through a well-worked short corner confidently dispatched by captain Nick W.

Momentum was now firmly with the home side. Bradford continued to pile on the pressure and soon took the lead, courtesy of Tobias Barber, who finished from a narrow angle after another slick short corner routine — despite the best efforts of York’s overworked goalkeeper.

During a later phase of play, a York counterattack led to a short corner being awarded following a slip by one of their attackers. Bradford accepted the decision without dispute, though there was some discussion among players and officials regarding its interpretation. Play was temporarily paused as the umpire clarified matters with both teams. During this brief exchange, players were reminded about tackling standards and maintaining composure — a message which the Bradford side took on board positively.

Unfortunately, this same passage of play also saw the Bradford goalkeeper receive a green, then yellow card following a misunderstanding during the discussion. The team regrouped calmly and prepared to defend the ensuing short corner without their goalkeeper.
Despite being temporarily reduced to ten players and without a keeper, Bradford’s defensive discipline held firm. York were unable to capitalise on their numerical advantage, and once back to full strength, Bradford’s confidence only grew.

Final Stages

With their rhythm restored, Bradford began to play the expressive, attacking hockey they are known for. Three well-crafted team goals put the result beyond doubt.
• On 60 minutes, captain Nick W. doubled his tally, finishing a precise passing move that began with a midfield interception before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom right corner.
• The fourth came from George Rivers, who, after coming on for the hard-working Andrew, followed up a deflected cross to score from close range.
• Andrew, having recovered his energy, later returned to the field in a more central role, providing a perfectly timed pass that set up Tobias Barber for his second goal of the match.
York remained spirited throughout and proved a tough side to break down, but on the day they were outmatched by a hungry and well-organised Bradford team, buoyed by strong availability and teamwork.

Result: 5-1 (Scorers: Nick W – 2, Tobias B – 2, George R, Man of the Match: Bhavan S)

Men’s 2s V Aire Valley 4

Bradford made the short trip to Keighley early Saturday morning full of confidence following back to back wins. It started as a scrappy game and stayed the same for most of the first half with neither side creating many clear cut chances. Both teams carried a threat from set pieces and unfortunately for the visitors Aire Valley converted one whilst Bradfords flew just past the post.

The second half followed a similar vain with Aire Valley having slightly the better of the chances. The thought of a late come back where dashed when the home keeper produced an excellent save to keep out Blanchfield’s bottom corner bound shot.

Result: 0-1 (Man of the Match: Nathan S)

Development 1 V Ben Rhydding

Our Development 1 squad faced an always-challenging trip to Ben Rhydding, known for their skilled and disciplined juniors.

The game was a fierce test, and Erin H was an absolute rock in goal, bravely stepping in again and showing amazing resilience against the Ben Rhydding attack! Bradford remained determined, showing true Boar spirit by fighting hard, giving everything they had, and putting two goals past a tough defence. Great effort, team!

Result: 6-2 (Scorers: Amar D, Zoe H. Players’ Player; Amar D)

Development 2 V Aire Valley

The Development 2 match at Aire Valley was a close contest where the final score simply doesn't tell the whole story!

Aire Valley started fast, but the Bradford defence was unbreakable, repelling every forward rush. A mid-half strategic switch, bringing in some experienced adult support, helped rebalance the sides, and suddenly, Bradford was on the offensive! Darcy became a constant threat down the right wing, and it was she who shattered the deadlock seconds before the half-time whistle! Her well-struck shot nestled perfectly in the bottom corner, with Jack F positioned perfectly to guarantee the goal! (1-0 at the break!)

The second half saw tired legs creep in for our significantly younger side, but they made very few mistakes and can be immensely proud of their shift. The midfield worked tirelessly on the full-sized pitch. Despite Aire Valley netting four in the second half, the effort was outstanding, and the scoreline doesn't reflect the fantastic fight put up by every single Bradford player.

A brilliant team effort on a historic day for Bradford Hockey!

Result: 1-4 (Scorers: Darcy C,. Players’ Player; Jack F)

Huge Thanks to our Authors and contributors: Dan, Andy & Ben.