Words: Ryan Jacobs, Photos: David Airey
TWO games in, seven to go.
The Magpies are set to host a formidable League Two opponent in Bradford City for their first pre-season friendly at the newly-named, Grant Store Victory Park Stadium ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Last time out. the Magpies ran out 1-5 winners against Squires Gate thanks to goals from Tom Carr (two), Jack Sampson and Kyle Preece (two).
Jack Hazlehurst looks to beat the Squires Gate goalkeeper on Tuesday night.
This match is set to be one of the most challenging tests for Andy Preece in their pre-season as the Bantams, who finished last season just outside the play-offs, are known for their strong performances.
Bradford City was originally formed in 1903. They started out as a rugby team before later switching to football.
Furthermore, the Bantams caused one of the biggest and greatest FA Cup upsets back in 2015 when they beat Chelsea 2-4 at Stamford Bridge. What makes it more impressive is that Chelsea later went on to win the Premier League title that season.
The Opposition
Bradford City have been very busy in the transfer window and have been looking to add even more quality to their side for the season ahead, most recently securing the signature of Tyreik Wright on a permanent basis from Plymouth Argyle.
Graham Alexander's side had a very good end of the season, going unbeaten in their last seven league games, ending their League Two campaign on a very positive note indeed.
One of their best performances last season came in the EFL Trophy, beating Barnsley 5-1 at home.
The Manager
Alexander has managed six clubs so far in his managerial career, with his best achievement coming as Fleetwood Town manager.
The 52-year old won the 2013-2014 League Two play-offs, getting the Cod Army in to League One.
Furthermore, one of his biggest moves as a manager came when he took the Motherwell job in 2023. Although not lasting long at the club, a move to a big Scottish team was a good experience for the coach.
A word from Preecy
"It'll be all of our first-teamers... it'll be a real tough test on Saturday against Bradford City, they've an unbelievable fanbase with over 20,000 season ticket holders and we're looking forward to it, then watch the England performance after that."
Ticketing Information
- Adults - £10
- Concessions (65+) - £8
- Under 18s - £5
It is highly advised to purchase tickets in advance, online, directly from our ticketing platform linked HERE.
Our ticket office will be open from noon where both cash and card are accepted.
Those wanting carers tickets / adult concessions (NHS, Police, Fire & Armed Services) can only purchase in person on matchday, directly from our ticket office with valid proof of ID when provided.
Match Details
- Turnstiles open - noon
- Live music from the get back beats - 1pm
- Chorley vs Bradford City kick-off - 2pm
- Live music from the get back beats - 4pm
- England vs Switzerland kick-off - 5pm
Our postcode is PR7 3DU, for those of you making the journey over.
We hope you'll join us for what promises to be a spectacular curtain raiser for our first game at the Grant Store Victory Park Stadium in the 2024/25 pre-season, come on you Magpies!
