Bromley see unbeaten start ended with defeat at Bradford

Posted Sunday, August 25, 2024 by PA

Bradford ran out 3-1 winners to inflict a first defeat on Bromley as a Sky Bet League Two club and end their perfect start to the season.

The visitors were reduced to 10 men after just nine minutes when Ashley Charles was sent off for handling Calum Kavanagh’s header on the line.

Richie Smallwood sent goalkeeper Grant Smith the wrong way with the penalty and Bradford went on to dominate the first half.

Andy Cook twice went close while Alex Pattison and Antoni Sarcevic also had good opportunities to increase their lead, but Cook did get the second goal in the 42nd minute, finishing at the second attempt after Grant Smith had parried his header from Smallwood’s cross.

Bradford defender Neill Byrne fired just over the bar before Bromley tried to find a way back. Michael Cheek had two efforts and Jude Arthurs drove wide from 20 yards.

Cook went close again on the counter before substitute Bobby Pointon slammed Bradford’s third goal after 79 minutes from the edge of the box.

Bromley captain Byron Webster headed a consolation four minutes from time as they finished with a rally.