Bradford Park Avenue v AFC Fylde 

With Manvir Rai

AFC Fylde take on Bradford Park Avenue just 18 days following their evenly contested league match at Kellamergh Park which saw The Coasters edge the game 2-1.

Goals from Liam Tomsett and Danny Rowe sealed the three points that cold Tuesday night, but it could have been much different. The Coasters were good value for their lead at 1-0 but Bradford equalised in spectacular fashion through Scott Kerr before being awarded a penalty. Ben Hinchliffe saved the resulting penalty which gave Fylde the impetus to go and win the game.

The FA Cup now awaits Dave Challinor’s side and AFC Fylde have been rampant winning their last six matches, scoring 24 goals and conceding 3 goals in the process, cementing their position as league leaders.

Bradford Park Avenue ended a run of 5 consecutive defeats on Saturday when they drew 0-0 with Brackley but have conceded 16 goals in their last seven games whilst not scoring in their last two. The West Yorkshire club will have their work cut out when they entertain AFC Fylde, who have scored the most and conceded the least in the league.

Richie Allen reached 100 goals for AFC Fylde last Saturday when he notched a brace over Worcester City. The striker admits he is not surprised with the impressive start AFC Fylde has made. He said, “People didn’t really give us a chance this season but the difference from Evo-Stik Northern League to Vanarama Conference North isn’t as big as everyone is making out. I think we can get better.”

Despite it being an FA Cup game, I believe Dave Challinor will field a strong team. Bradford Park Avenue made it difficult for Fylde 18 days ago, but the resilience and patience the league leaders showed when the score-line was 1-1 highlights Fylde’s credentials to be a force this season. I fully expect Bradford Park Avenue to give AFC Fylde a tough challenge, but AFC Fylde are flying and I believe their recent victory over Bradford Park Avenue gives The Coasters the psychological edge.