AN unbeaten run of four games was unheard of last season, but this term Bradford (Park Avenue) believe this is only the start in what could be a promising season.

Wins over Hereford and Alfreton Town, and draws against Chorley and most recently at league leaders Gloucester City have shown Mark Bower's boys can dig deep even with a depleted squad.

One man who has shone throughout that period is player/coach Ryan Toulson. The 34-year-old has revitalised himself in this newfound midfield role which has also allowed Jake Hibbs to star on the right.

Speaking on his side's campaign so far, Toulson said: "I am enjoying it.

"We were a little bit short due to injuries so we have had to move people about.

"It has been good to be out on the pitch, helping there as well as from the sides. For me to still be playing and contributing is good.

"Other clubs are missing games due to the Covid but luckily for us we are managing to get a good run together which always helps. If you have a couple of weeks off or miss a game it just upsets that.

"The last few games are proving what we are working on is coming together.

"We have made a good start to the season and long may that continue."

Saturday's rollercoaster 4-4 draw with Gloucester has certainly been one of the biggest highlights.

Toulson thinks that game showed Avenue can compete with anyone in the Vanarama National League North.

He added: "It was a good game to be involved in and great for the neutrals.

"Going to the top of the league, who are unbeaten, and coming away with a point is a good result for us.

"They have spent a lot of money in the summer and have got a lot of experience in this league.

"We had chances to win the game, but so did they, a draw is probably a fair result.

"We were winning and to go down so quickly, the lads showed great character to know when we do go forward we can create chances.

"I said to the lads before we went out that we should be full of confidence from our recent results. We had nothing to lose. The belief in the camp is good at the minute."

Fourth-placed Southport travel to Horsfall tonight expecting to get back to winning ways after losing their last two.

"With our small squad and that quick turnaround, it will be a tough ask.

"But we know that we have got enough quality, within the dressing room to get a result."