Bradford (Park Avenue) U19s and Reserves Mid-Season Review

December 21, 2025 Off By

Steady Progress for Youth and Reserve Squads at Christmas Break

As the 2025/26 football season reaches its halfway point, Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC’s U19 and Reserves teams have completed a busy first half across multiple competitions. The club currently fields four squads within its youth programme, competing in various league and cup tournaments. The Reserves team is managed by Owen Murphy, who also oversees the U19 programme with support from tutor and sports therapist Brad Smith.

League Performance

The U19 programme operates three squads competing in different leagues:

North West Championship (NWC): The NWC squad is positioned third in the league, demonstrating strong form among the leading teams.
North Division One (ND1): The ND1 team also sits third in their division, having recorded several high-scoring matches.
AoC League: This squad focuses on player development and currently occupies a spot in the lower half of the table, emphasising competitive experience and progression opportunities.

The Reserves compete in the West Yorkshire Association Football League Division 2 and are currently second in the league standings. Their most recent fixture saw a 2–0 home victory against Oxenhope Recreation Reserves, providing positive momentum heading into 2026.

Cup Competitions

In the NFYL League Cup, the ND1 team remains active after victories over Hyde United (3–1) and Macclesfield (won on penalties). The NWC squad also had a notable run, defeating Bury 4–1 away before being eliminated on penalties by Steven Gerrard Academy following a closely contested match.

Earlier in the season, a combined U19 squad participated in the FA Youth Cup. They secured a 5–1 home win against Garforth Town and progressed after a penalty shootout victory at Cleethorpes Town. Their run concluded with a defeat to York City in a reversed fixture at Horsfall Community Stadium.

Managerial Insights

Owen Murphy reflected on the first half of the season, highlighting the importance of clear structure and player understanding. He noted that the basic playing style suits the squads, with players comprehending their roles effectively, which is reflected in their league positions.

Managing three U19 squads required tailored approaches:

Second-year scholars: Subject to stricter management to maximise performance, resulting in strong current form.
First-year scholars: Given a more patient approach to accommodate adjustment to the programme and life changes, with recent improvements in results.

Regarding the Reserves, Murphy described the team as a new initiative for the club and a step into senior management for him. He emphasised the group’s consistency and close-knit nature as key factors in their current league standing. The Reserves also serve as a bridge to the first team, with some players already training at that level.

Looking ahead, Murphy expects the squads to maintain their standards and fitness levels to continue competing effectively in the second half of the season.

Upcoming Football Education Programme Intake

Recruitment is open for the September 2026 intake of the Bradford (Park Avenue) Football Education Programme, which combines full-time education with competitive football training within a professional club environment. A trial and coaching session is scheduled for: