FA VASE: Shanley hoping for big things from strike duo

Jordan, who spearheaded Bradford’s promotion from the Toolstation League First Division with his monster haul of 77 goals, and Plummer, who joined the club from Odd Down last month, both netted twice as Shanley’s men progressed into the first round proper of the FA Vase last weekend.

Bradford are set to host Wiltshire League giant-killers Malmesbury Victoria in November after thrashing Sydenhams League Andover Town 4-0 at Trowbridge Road, with the visitors having Ike Robertson shown a straight red card in the first half for an alleged stamp on striker Plummer.

“Hopefully Sam and Twaine can be a good partnership for us,” said Shanley.

“Sammy’s taken a bit of time to get back to his best because he missed a big chunk of the start of the season when he was away on holiday but we know what he can do.

“Twaine gives us something that we’ve not had at Bradford for a couple of seasons, which is that ability to hold the ball up. Sammy has got pace and likes to get in behind, and the two of them should work well together.

“Andover had a little bit of possession against us but as soon as they went down to ten men, that changed the game.

“Getting through to the next round is all that matters in the Vase. But the financial side of it is really important too.”

After making the final last season, Bradford have been handed a bye through the first round of the Wiltshire Senior Cup this Saturday.

Instead, Shanley’s men will be concentrating on a Premier Division clash with Plummer’s former club Odd Down.

The Bradford manager added: “It’s going to be very tough. We did manage to beat them 1-0 at their place but they just beat Bristol Manor Farm, which was their first loss of the season.”

Defenders Craig Gingell and Josh Brigham are suspended but Dan Shanley and Martin Johnson come back into Shanley’s squad.

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