Bradford Win is a Family Affair
21 Jun 2019
BANCROFT-on-Avon
James Bancroft (centre), who has played for Bradford for more than 30 years, and his boys Michael (left) and Edward.
Bradford on Avon senor men’s water polo team should consider adopting a new name – BANCROFT on Avon!
Members of the Bancroft family – James and his sons Edward, aged 16, and 14-year-old Michael – have all played regularly in the Bristol & West League for the first time this season. And a very special landmark was achieved when Bradford reached the semi-finals of the League’s Handicap Knock-Out Cup by defeating neighbours Frome – because all three featured among the scorers.
Prior to the match, the League committee had proved wildly pessimistic about Bradford’s chances, awarding the team a 15-goal start against Frome, who play in a higher B&W division. In fact, Frome were never in a position to challenge, Bradford matching them for much of the game with a gritty all-round performance and eventually winning 26-15 (including the 15-goal start).
Bradford’s success follows recent home and away League wins against South Gloucestershire. Scorers against Frome were Andy Rose (3), James Bancroft (2), Edward Bancroft (2), Ben Walker, Gary Smith, Julian Potts and Michael Bancroft.
Next up for Bradford are two home League matches against Welsh opposition - Swansea (4 July) and Newport (11 July). Meanwhile, the club’s juniors continue to train at Bradford on Wednesdays (8pm) and Thursdays at Stonar School (7pm) and newcomers will be very welcome to attend. Contact coach Jim Robinson, [email protected], for more information.