Salford City hosted Bradford in a Club Friendly on August 1st. The match concluded with a 2:2 draw after both sides exchanged goals. By then, the intensity had built up enough to keep spectators on edge.
L. Molyneux opened the scoring for Salford in 32'. Bradford equalised just before the break through A. Phillips at 45+2'. The hosts regained their advantage when J. Powell struck in 54'. K. Jackson then secured the point for the visitors in 57'.
And here's the thing, the 2nd half moved faster than the 1st half. The goals came in quick succession, turning the game on its head. To be fair, neither goalkeeper faced a massive amount of pressure.
Bradford controlled the match with 53 per cent possession and 112 attacks. Salford managed 81 attacks with 47 per cent of the ball. The visitors won 8 corners to 5, yet they could not land a decisive blow. The statistics show dominance without the final reward.
Salford have won 3 of their last 5 friendlies, including a 4:1 victory over Manchester United. Bradford also won 4 matches, notably beating Halifax Town 6:1. Both teams are clearly looking for rhythm rather than points.
The draw leaves both clubs with a point from this fixture. It is a practical outcome for a warm-up game. The scoreline reflects a balanced contest where neither side needed to risk everything.