Bradford City Women got their new era at Bradford (Park Avenue) off to the perfect start over Women's Football Weekend - with an emphatic 5-1 victory over Alnwick Town Ladies.
Despite falling behind early on in the contest, City responded with five goals of their own to pick up a convincing win – in front of 140 supporters at the Horsfall Community Stadium.
The visitors took the lead with just three minutes on the clock after a breakaway downfield ended with the ball being slotted past goalkeeper Skye Kirkham.
Alnwick then had a couple of opportunities to extend their advantage but missed the target on both occasions.
The Bantams drew level when Maisie Norde’s free-kick was headed into the back of the net by captain Katy Woodcock.
With just over 20 minutes played, Chris Hames’ side then hit the front with what was pretty much a carbon copy of their first goal, with Norde’s free-kick delivery being headed in by Woodcock.
The home team continued to come forward and added a third when Hope Knight’s curling effort flew past the goalkeeper into the back of the net.
City’s lead was extended even further when Charlotte Stuart went on a promising run towards goal before striking past the 'keeper to put the Bantams in cruise control heading into the interval.
With just over 20 minutes remaining, the hosts added a fifth when Knight’s cross was taken in by Hawkins who finished confidently.
The hosts went close to adding a sixth in spectacular fashion, but Norde’s bicycle kick came back off the post.
City held onto their lead to see them pick up a valuable three points, keeping them out of the relegation zone, making it a successful first game at BPA since an official partnership was agreed last month.
CITY: Skye Kirkham; Tori Thomas (Chynna Harris 61’), Caitlyn Douglas (Beth Shepherd 89’), Katy Woodcock ©, Charlotte Stuart; Maisie Norde, Hope Knight, Sophie Hawkins, Amy Beck (Charlotte Hill 70’); Monika Stube, Elanna Prothero (Elle Scott 89’). SUBS (not used): Hannah Richards.