IF BRADFORD Park Avenue's first two games are an indicator for the season to come, then the club's supporters are guaranteed excitement this term.

Without either game being dirty or nasty, Luke Dean has been sent off in both of their opening fixtures, there has been a mass brawl after the final whistle and a handful of penalty appeals turned down.

New boss Martin Drury has hardly had time to draw breath, let alone settle into the role so far. However, his enthusiasm and energy remain undiminished and he is looking forward to the rest of the campaign.

Their opening National League North fixture at home to Alfreton ended with ugly scenes, while Avenue were hanging on towards the end at Stalybridge in midweek after Dean received his marching orders with 23 minutes remaining.

Drury said: "They have been two eventful games, that's for sure, and it's been a bit too hectic.

"We didn't have anyone sent off until after the final whistle against Alfreton and then Luke got a second yellow in the argy-bargy that followed.

"There was some pushing and shoving and a lot of things said. It was all a bit unfortunate and could have been avoided.

"Then his two bookings on Tuesday, I thought the first was one but the second? There was nothing in that whatsoever. It was a soft one – but when you're on a yellow, you run that risk."

Drury was frustrated because he and his coaching staff had identified the possibility and were just about to deal with it.

"We could see the way the game was going and thought it best to take Luke out of harm's way," he said.

"Danny Schofield had warmed up and was stripped ready to come on for Luke as the challenge was made, so we were really disappointed when the ref went to his pocket."

Avenue held firm and banked another point, so go into today's trip to Nuneaton still unbeaten.

That has pleased the manager, who has seen his players stand up to sides deploying varying tactics – Stalybridge's physical approach after the possession game from Alfreton.