Simon Ainge’s own goal meant Avenue lost at Nuneaton
The search goes on for Bradford (Park Avenue)’s first win of the Vanarama National League North season after Simon Ainge’s own goal gave Nuneaton Town a 1-0 victory.
After two consecutive draws, Martin Drury was hoping it would be third time lucky for Avenue at recently-relegated and full-time Nuneaton.
The game started off quickly with the home side striking the woodwork inside the first minute. Avenue gave the ball away and a strike from range skipped off the surface and struck the inside of the post, the Bradford defence just about scrambling the ball away in the end.
After a shaky minute or two Avenue settled into the match and the game slowed down with both sides trying to build from the back and exchanging half chances. Adam Clayton had to be alert to clear one strike off the line but otherwise the first half was a tightly fought affair.
The goal came five minutes before the break, and it was a very lucky one at that.
Left-back James Reid cut inside and hit a very weak shot across the goal. Jon Stewart had moved early to field the ball but captain Simon Ainge stuck out a leg and unfortunately the ball snuck in at the near post.
Avenue gave their all in their bid to force an equaliser, but Nuneaton held out.
Bradford (Park Avenue): Stewart, Pursehouse (Walshaw 84), Mather, Dean, Clayton, Ainge (c), P.Marshall, Schofield (N.Walker 68), Chilaka, Potts, King (R.Marshall 74). Subs not used: Burgin, Carole.
Referee: William Smallwood
Attendance: 765