As the Cobblers prepare to lock horns with Bradford City once more, Cobblers Past takes a look back at the history between these two sides. Although not historical rivals, meetings between Northampton Town and Bradford City have often carried high stakes — from promotion battles to play-off encounters — and rarely lack tension or talking points.
From dramatic late winners to missed opportunities, this fixture has delivered plenty of heart-stopping moments for fans of both clubs.
Last Time We Met – Agony at Sixfields, April 2023
Northampton Town 1–2 Bradford City
Date: Saturday, 29 April 2023 – League Two
Venue: Sixfields Stadium
Northampton Town missed the chance to secure automatic promotion to League One in front of a packed Sixfields as Bradford struck a cruel late winner in stoppage time.
The Cobblers knew three points would all but confirm their promotion, and after falling behind to Andy Cook’s unmarked header from a Scott Banks corner, they slowly grew into the contest. Max Dyche levelled things up in the 63rd minute with a poacher’s finish from Sam Sherring’s knockdown, and the momentum seemed to swing Northampton’s way.
Kieron Bowie, Harvey Lintott, and Sherring all went close as the hosts pressed for a vital winner, but Bradford held firm — and then struck the decisive blow. With stoppage time ticking away, Romoney Crichlow rose highest from a corner to nod home and silence the Sixfields faithful.
Despite the heartbreak, Northampton’s fate remained in their own hands — promotion would still be secured with a win at Tranmere on the final day. But Bradford’s dramatic win reminded everyone just how thin the margins can be at the sharp end of the table.
A Memorable Win – Northampton Hit Four as Bradford’s Winless Run Continues
County Ground, Northampton – 5th September 1975
Northampton Town delivered an emphatic 4–2 victory over struggling Bradford City at the County Ground on Friday evening, in front of a crowd of 3,675. The Cobblers secured their second win of the season with a dominant display, as goals from Christie, Gregory, Robertson, and McGowan saw off a spirited but winless Bradford side.
The home side started brightly and took a commanding 2–1 lead into half-time, before adding two more goals after the break to seal the points. Bradford City, despite managing to find the net through Cooke and Ingram, were unable to turn the tide, continuing their disappointing start to the 1975–76 campaign.
Northampton made several changes to their line-up, with Starling, McGowan, and debutant Neil Davids – signed on loan from Norwich City just a day earlier – all brought into the side. The reshuffle paid off immediately, as the hosts looked more dynamic and assured throughout the 90 minutes.
Midfielder John Gregory marked a personal milestone during the game, making his 100th Football League appearance. Fittingly, he capped the occasion with a goal in a performance full of energy and composure.
Bradford City, meanwhile, remain without a win this season and will be under increasing pressure to turn things around in the coming weeks. Despite goals from Cooke and Ingram, defensive frailties once again cost them dearly, and the side lacked the cutting edge needed to mount a comeback.
Referee C. Gardner of Gloucester officiated the match without incident.
Players Who’ve Represented Both Clubs
Several recognisable names have worn both the claret and white of Northampton and the claret and amber of Bradford:
- Tony Adcock – A natural finisher who made his mark at Northampton before later appearing for the Bantams.
- Matt Duke – The towering goalkeeper had spells at both clubs, remembered for his presence between the posts.
- Alex Jones – A lively forward who spent time on the books at both sides.
- Mark Marshall – A tricky winger with pace to burn, who made appearances for both clubs during his Football League journey.
- Richard O’Donnell – A goalkeeper who has had stints at numerous clubs, including both Bradford and Northampton.
- Vadaine Oliver – A powerful forward known for his work rate and aerial presence, featured prominently at both Sixfields and Valley Parade.
- Emile Sinclair – A pacey striker who had short spells at both clubs during his career.
- Ash Taylor – A commanding centre-back who represented both clubs with strong defensive displays.
- Chris Wilder – Best known for his managerial career, Wilder also had a spell as a player at both clubs before going on to manage the Cobblers to promotion.
From the Dugout – Managerial Crossroads
While not directly managing both sides, both clubs have seen several managerial paths cross. Most notably, Chris Wilder, who played for both teams, later led Northampton to the League Two title in 2016. His connections to both clubs add an extra layer of interest to this fixture whenever the sides meet.
A memorable moment – not for the performance on the pitch, but for the occasion itself.
Over 23,000 Cobblers fans filled the capital with pride and passion, creating a sea of claret and white at Wembley. While the result may not have gone Northampton’s way, the sheer scale of support and the shared experience will forever hold a place in the hearts of those who were there.