BRADFORD CITY 1, OLDHAM ATHLETIC 1
It was a measure of the remarkable progress made that new-look Oldham Athletic managed a creditable draw at high-flying Bradford City in Sky Bet League One.
New manager Stephen Robinson, only appointed after pre-season training had begun, has already transformed the fortunes of the club.
After the opening-day defeat at Millwall, Latics have strung together a four match unbeaten run in the league to climb to mid-table.
It was a story of the Clarke’s at Valley Parade as Peter gave Latics an early lead only for the Bantams’ Billy to equalise through a second-half penalty.
Robinson reverted to the same side which beat Bury last weekend with Ryan Flynn, Paul Green and Billy Mckay restored to the starting line up.
Latics could not have wished for a better start as Peter Clarke headed them in front from a Marc Klok free kick after only five minutes.
And they pursued a second goal with Ryan Flynn forcing a decent save from keeper Colin Doyle.
Bradford eventually gained a foothold into the game as former Latics’ player Timothee Dieng fired narrowly wide and Mark Marshall forced a fabulous save from Connor Ripley.
Latics claimed a penalty after 13 minutes when Billy Mckay appeared to be fouled in the penalty area.
West Ham loanee Josh Cullen should have equalised for the Bantams when he was one on one with Ripley only to drag his shot wide.
Latics had to withstand considerable pressure, but defended resolutely and restricted the hosts to few chances, though Billy Clarke ought to have scored in stoppage time only to fire narrowly wide.
Mckay also had a chance to extend Latics’ lead, but headed wide when well placed.
Ripley was again forced to make a good save minutes early in the second half as Jordy Hiwula volleyed goalwards but the goalkeeper beat his fierce effort away.
Bradford were awarded a penalty after 57 minutes when Ousmane Fane was harshly judged to have brought down Billy Clarke, a decision that enraged Latics’ fans behind the goal. Clarke picked himself up to send Ripley the wrong way from the spot.
James Meredith forced a smart save from Ripley after the goalkeeper palmed away his powerful effort from the edge of the box.
While the Bantams enjoyed considerable possession in the latter stages, they didn’t further test Ripley and comfortably held out for a valuable away point.
Latics (4-4-2): Ripley, Law, Clarke, Burgess, Dunne; Klok, Fane (Banks 60), Green, Flynn; Erwin (McLaughlin 70), Mckay (Osei 88). Subs (not used): Kettings, Wilson, Croft, Cassidy.
Goals: Billy Clarke 57 for Bradford; Peter Clarke (5) for Latics.
Attendance: 17,793 (685 visiting supporters)