- Stephenson (22')
Farsley Celtic make the trip to Lancashire today to face Bamber Bridge in the second round of the Isuzu FA Trophy
It’s the first time the two sides have been drawn against each other in the competition and Pav Singh’s side travel to the SFC Stadium looking to book their place in the third round for the first time since reaching a club best quarter final back in the 2022/23 season.
The Celts head into the match off the back of a narrow 1-0 defeat away at Kidderminster Harriers last Saturday, however Farsley will be boosted by new reinforcements to the squad that were announced in recent days. Pav Singh is also bolstered with the new additions to the backroom staff meaning the Celts are well equipped and raring to go.
Speaking on today’s FA Trophy clash, Singh said: “We head into the FA Trophy tie against Bamber Bridge with confident and a healthy-looking squad. The team has been in great form, and I couldn’t be more proud of the performance against Kidderminster Harriers last weekend.
“To go toe-to-toe with a full-time outfit like that and feel we deserved something speaks volumes about the players’ quality and determination.”
On the recent updates to the squad, Pav said: “Since the embargo was lifted, we’ve worked hard to strengthen both the squad and backroom team:
- Isaac Abankwah has joined permanently from Wythenshawe Town. A versatile and tough defender, Isaac will be a huge asset to the team.
- Aaron Pickles, on loan from Accrington Stanley, adds composure and a strong defensive presence.
- Hayden Pickard, a loanee from Barnsley, brings pace and creativity down the left, whether as a full-back or wing-back.
- Keiran Flavell, also from Barnsley, joins to cover for the injured Tom Wooster. Keiran is a talented goalkeeper with a bright future.
“I’m also thrilled to announce that Will Morrissey and Tom Priestley-Standing, both from our ETS, have earned squad numbers and will join the first-team setup. It’s always rewarding to see players develop and take the next step in their careers.
“In the backroom, we’ve made important changes:
- Andy Middleton, who will lead our goalkeepers and work closely with the ETS and Talent ID squads, brings a wealth of experience from the professional and semi-professional levels.
- Omed Gardezi, a physio with extensive experience at clubs like Rotherham United Academy and Eccleshill United, strengthens our medical team.
- Talent coaches Luke Dean and Clifton Robinson will continue to support the squad where needed.
“While we’re excited about these additions, it’s been tough to see Danny Greenfield, Gareth Liversidge, Tom Morgan, and Jake Lofthouse leave. Danny has been a top professional and player, and we’re all gutted to see him go. As for Gareth, Tom, and Jake, their contributions to the club have been immense, and we wish them nothing but the best in their future endeavors.
“I’m still working to finalize two more signings over the coming weeks—watch this space! With the squad strengthening and performances like the one against Kidderminster, I’m confident we’re heading in the right direction. Let’s bring that same energy and quality into the FA Trophy tie and keep moving forward.
“Thanks, as always, for your incredible support!”
TEAM NEWS
The squad is in a much healthier condition thanks to the new additions who will hope to make their first appearances in green and white this afternoon.
BAMBER BRIDGE
Our hosts today currently sit mid table in the Northern Premier League in 13th on 18 points, ten points off of the playoffs. Bamber are without a win in their last two fixtures, losing 3-2 at Matlock and 2-1 at home to Morpeth. They defeated fellow Northern Premier League side Workington 3-2 in the previous round to set up today’s tie.
LAST TIME OUT
It’s the first encounter between the two sides in over five years, the last one coming in March 2019 when the Celts won out 3-0 at the SFC Stadium on their way to being promoted to the National League North.
SOCIAL MEDIA & COMMENTARY
To follow live updates of tonight’s game, you can keep up to date with our social media channels. Our live commentary will not be able to listen to for today.
