Following the weekend’s defeat against Silsden AFC in which the team gave it their all, there will understandably be a level of optimism heading into what is a rare Wednesday fixture.

However, the Dennyboys’ defence will have to be at its best, with Matty Dempsey serving a suspension for this game following his dismissal against Albion Sports.

Danny Forrest will not be short of options to address this issue, with the game allowing a potentially different name to express themselves to both the team and supporters.

The Opposition:

Entertaining Thackley this time around are Campion AFC, yet another Bradford based side that are enjoying a strong season on the pitch, though there will be some eyes on how they perform as the season approaches a crucial phase in the quest for play-off places.

Since losing last season’s promotion play-off semi-final at home to Albion Sports, Campion have managed to build a squad for this season that includes Nicky Boshell, who knows how to win a play-off campaign, having scored the winning the goal in Guiseley AFC’s 2014-15 triumph, whilst also recently re-acquiring proven goal scorer Marcus Day.

Boshell and Day’s impact was immediately felt in the side’s recent County Cup fixture against Yorkshire Amateur, with Day opening the scoring in the first 60 seconds whilst Boshell scored a hat-trick.

Outside of these two players, Campion have been able to pick up a number of strong results in the league, including some comprehensive four goal victories over Bottesford Town and Eccleshill United, whilst also taking Northern Premier League side Blyth Spartans to a replay and even extra time in the Emirates FA Cup this season.

Leading the way for the club in terms of the league’s score charts is Ewan Gregson, who has netted seven goals during the league season.

However, in all competitions, Aidan Kirby is tied with Gregson’s league total, whilst Boshell is also part of the conversation with six goals altogether.

Previous Meetings:

Both of last season’s meetings between Thackley and Campion offered plenty in terms of excitement and goals, though on the occasions, the Dennyboys couldn’t quite produce a victory.

The meeting at Campion came as the hosts were preparing for their play-off campaign, but they their preparations were completed in style as they pulled off an exciting 6-3 victory in front of a crowd of 147 on the day.

The earlier fixture at Dennyfield lacked the same amount of goals, but produced just as much excitement as both sides put in a great showing in a 1-1 draw, with Day’s goal for Campion being cancelled out by a Marcus Edwards equaliser for Thackley in front of 303 supporters.

Ground Description:

The 1st GlassUK Stadium is an example of a traditional ground, with it being located right in the middle of an estate and at the heart of its community.

Though an official capacity isn’t listed, there is an adequate amount of seating and space to stand, both under cover and exposed to the elements.

There is also a clubhouse and catering facilities, serving a range of food and drink.

Directions:

Leave M62 at J26 to join M606. Stay until end and join A6177 Ring Road (East). Go past Asda supermarket and at first roundabout take first exit and join A650. Go past Leisure Exchange. Road becomes A6037. After approx ¾m turn left into Station Road. At junction, turn left and join A6177. At second set of lights, turn right into Manningham Lane, then turn left into Oak Lane at next lights. At second set of lights, turn right into Heaton Road. Take second left into Scotchman Road. Ground is approx 500m on right.

Public Transport:

Station: Bradford Interchange 2 miles. First Bradford 620 from Bradford (Interchange, adjacent to station) to Bradford (Toller Lane, Roundabout) four times per hour, journey time 15 minutes. Then continue along Toller Lane, right into Jesmond Avenue, right into Scotchman Road, ground on left (7 minutes).

(Directions Credit: NCEL Website)

Admission Prices:

Adults: £6
Concessions: £3
Dogs allowed on a lead

(Admission Prices Credit: NCEL Website)