Bradford (Park Avenue) Exit Emirates FA Cup After Narrow Defeat

Close contest ends with Guiseley edging victory at Nethermoor Park

Bradford (Park Avenue) were eliminated from the Emirates FA Cup following a 1-0 defeat against Guiseley AFC at Nethermoor Park on Saturday 3 October 2026. The match, attended by 1,574 spectators, saw a tight first half with limited clear chances before a decisive goal just before half-time.

Match Summary

The opening period featured few clear-cut opportunities for either side. Guiseley came close to scoring in the 13th minute when Jay Rollins fired over the bar during a swift counter-attack. Shortly after, Bradford (Park Avenue) were nearly gifted a goal when goalkeeper Jack Hall’s clearance struck attacker Robbie Fox, but the ball fell just short of the goal line.

Bradford continued to create pressure, with Fox’s efforts leading to a promising chance for Marcus Carver, whose shot was cleared by the home defence. However, Guiseley broke the deadlock in the 38th minute. A cross from Amir Berchil was not effectively dealt with by the visitors’ defence, allowing Elliot Owen to score from close range.

After the break, Guiseley maintained control, pushing for a second goal. In the 71st minute, Lucas Odunston delivered a dangerous cross that Kallan Murphy failed to convert. Bradford (Park Avenue) increased their attacking efforts late in the game, with chances falling to Rudy Misambo and Brad Abbott, but neither managed to score.

In the closing stages, goalkeeper Declan Lambton made a crucial save denying Berchil in a one-on-one situation. In stoppage time, Bailey Thompson’s powerful shot was saved by Hall. Bradford (Park Avenue) appealed for a penalty in the final moments when Jameel Ible fell inside the penalty area, but the referee declined to award it and ended the match.

Team Line-Ups and Details

• Guiseley AFC: Hall, Odunston, Brown, Hopper, Owen, Mbeka (C), Rollins (Emmett 77′), Staniland, Murphy, Wilson (Iggulden 85′), Berchil (Tinker 90+3)
• Unused substitutes: Roxburgh, Boyle, Sinfield, Longbottom
• Goalscorer: Elliot Owen (38′)

• Bradford (Park Avenue): Lambton, Brown, Duxbury (Winfield 72′), Ekpolo, Misambo, Ible (C), Chorlton (Hassan-Smith 59′), Abbott, Carver (B. Thompson 62′), Fox (Andreucci 80′), J. Thompson (Parkin 59′)
• Unused substitutes: Jones, Haw

Next Fixtures

Following their exit from the FA Cup, Bradford (Park Avenue) will focus on their Northern Premier League East Division campaign. The team aims to extend their unbeaten run and reclaim the top position in the league, with several games in hand over their rivals.

The next match is scheduled for Tuesday 6 October 2026 at Horsfall Community Stadium, where Bradford (Park Avenue) will host Lincoln United. Kick-off is set for 7:45pm.