Bradford Park Avenue 3 Leamington 2

Substitute Chib Chilaka’s last-minute winner ensured Avenue earned a deserved victory to leapfrog visitors Leamington in the Conference North.

Bradford started with new signing Grant Black at right back, with Ryan Qualter making his first start alongside him in defence.

Avenue were the most dominant and creative side in the goalless first half. Adam Clayton fired over when well placed, skipper Nathan Hotte was in two minds when he found himself through and Qualter got in on the act with a header following a set-piece.

There were also half chances for recent signings Danny Glover and Paul Beesley as they formed the forward partnership for the first time.

However, there was a warning for Bradford as Leamington were awarded a free-kick in first-half stoppage time but John Lamb did well to punch clear.

The visitors edged in front ten minutes after the break, Daniel Newton stabbing the ball past Lamb from close range.

Avenue boss John Deacey responded by making positive changes, with Ross Gardner and Chilaka coming on from the bench.

The home side levelled soon after as Glover found the net with a powerful header following good work from Paul Walker and Richard Marshall.

Avenue took the lead minutes later when Walker fired in a shot on the turn.

Leamington stunned the home crowd when a mishit shot from substitute Matt Dodd found the bottom corner of Lamb’s net.

But former Bantams striker Chilaka buried a left-foot shot in the 90th minute.

Avenue overhauled neighbours Guiseley in the table but that could be temporary as Mark Bower’s men are looking to get back into action tonight.

The Lions, who lie 11th, travel to seventh-placed Solihull Moors after having been frustrated by postponements in their last four league games.

In The Toolstation Northern Counties East Premier Division, Brighouse Town will leap four places to fifth with a home win over visitors Armthorpe Welfare.