Bradford Park Avenue expect to tackle strong pre-season Bradford City side (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Bradford City and Doncaster join Thackley and Whitby for pre-season Bradford Park Avenue games

7:40pm Monday 21st May 2012 in Bantams By Ian Whiting

With last season still fresh in the memory, promoted Bradford Park Avenue are beginning preparations for the next campaign.

They have announced four pre-season friendlies and once again the annual clash with their cross-city rivals is the jewel in the crown.

The first game is at nearby Thackley, who are managed by Avenue boss John Deacey’s former assistant Vince Brockie.

Close links have developed between the clubs, with Ross Daly and Nicky Matthews moving from the Dennyboys to Avenue while Dempsey Smith and Brice Tiani have gone in the opposite direction.

Avenue visit Dennyfield on Saturday, July 14 and a week later host Doncaster Rovers, before the Bantams arrive at Horsfall on Tuesday, August 7. Then the following Saturday (August 11) Deacey’s men head to Whitby Town.

Press officer Lewis Sale said: “We have been told that Doncaster and City will be sending strong squads.

“Thackley will be a good game for both clubs and Whitby were in the same division as us last season, so that should be a very competitive fixture.”

Avenue have also confirmed prices for next season in the Conference North.

Match-day admission has risen £1 to £10 per game. Discounted season tickets are available until June 20, costing £160 for adults, £90 concessions and £30 for under-16s. After the discount date they go up to £170, £100 and £35 respectively.

Payment details are on the club’s website, where a download and print application form is also available.