Bradford City striker Andy Cook couldn’t hide his delight as he scored a stunner against Newcastle United, the team he supported growing up.
It’s been a really tough year for the 34-year-old. Having firmly cemented his position as one of the leading strikers in the lower divisions, he suffered an ACL injury in January which ruled him out of action until the beginning of this month.
The former Walsall attacker had to watch from the sidelines as his Bradford teammates secured promotion to League One in May. Whilst working towards full fitness, the Bantams have enjoyed a stunning start to the season and currently sit top of the third tier.
Cook made his return to action in the EFL Trophy against another of his former clubs Grimsby Town on September 2nd. He continued where he left off, scoring twice to help secure a 2-1 win.
Cook Hits Stunner In ‘Dream Come True’ Clash
The veteran was a boyhood Newcastle fan and admitted prior to last night’s clash that the prospect of playing at St James’ Park was a dream come true. Via The Guardian, he said:
“Growing up locally, this was your dream.
“You always wanted to play at St James’ at some point. Did I think I’d get the chance with the way my career has gone? Probably not. You never think that when you’re playing as low down as I was. So to get the chance to do it, it genuinely is a dream come true.”
Bradford may have lost but this was a strike worthy of winning any game. Andy Cook, just wow! #bcafcpic.twitter.com/12xVKjx1Ww
— The Real EFL (@RealEFLSocial) September 24, 2025
He was introduced as a second half substitute in the 62nd minute and with his side trailing 3-0, he scored an absolutely wonderful strike that rattled in off the crossbar. Speaking afterwards, he couldn’t contain his delight:
“I was just happy to get minutes but to come on and get a goal, I am over the moon.
“I have dreamt of playing here [St James’ Park] for ages, and to score a goal it is unbelievable.
“This is right up there as one of my favourite goals I have scored. It is a real dream come true.”
Writer’s View
This is a just reward for Andy Cook, who has been a phenomenal player for Bradford since signing in 2021. It’s a testament to his character to see him bounce back from an ACL injury in the space of nine months whilst also proving he still has a knack for goal. He has three goals in just 54 minutes of action this season and he could be a huge player for the Bantams for the remainder of the campaign.
