Where to Watch and Who is Commentating Mansfield Town vs Bradford City on BBC Radio and iFollow

Match date: 1 January 2026

Where to Watch and Who is Commentating Mansfield Town vs Bradford City on BBC Radio and iFollow

Football fans across the UK are gearing up for an exciting League One clash on New Year's Day as Mansfield Town host Bradford City at the One Call Stadium. Kicking off at 3pm UK time, this Round 24 fixture promises drama with Mansfield sitting 11th in the table and Bradford in strong 3rd position, chasing promotion. While major TV broadcasters like BBC, ITV, Sky Sports or TNT Sports are not covering the match live on television, avid supporters can tune into comprehensive radio coverage from BBC Radio Leeds and BBC Radio Nottingham, or opt for the video stream via Mansfield Town's iFollow service. These outlets provide expert commentary to bring every moment of the action to life, making them essential for fans unable to attend in person.

The beauty of radio commentary lies in its immediacy and passion, especially for lower-league games like this Sky Bet League One encounter. BBC's regional stations have long been pillars of football coverage in the UK, offering free access to build-up, live match reports and post-game analysis. For those preferring visuals, iFollow delivers a reliable stream direct from the club, perfect for Stags supporters worldwide. With referee Ross Joyce officiating, expect a competitive battle given both teams' recent form: Mansfield have won their last two away games but struggled at home, while Bradford boast back-to-back victories.

BBC Radio Leeds Coverage: Presenter Katherine Hannah with Commentators Jamie Raynor and Gary Jones

BBC Radio Leeds will be the go-to for Bradford City fans, delivering full match commentary starting well before kick-off. Leading the team is presenter Katherine Hannah, a seasoned broadcaster known for her engaging style and deep knowledge of Yorkshire football. Hannah has built a reputation over years at BBC Radio Leeds, covering everything from local non-league matches to high-stakes derbies. Her career highlights include reporting on Bradford's memorable FA Cup run in 2013 and numerous League Two promotions, making her a trusted voice for Bantams followers.

Main commentator Jamie Raynor brings tactical insight to the microphone. Raynor, a former journalist and commentator, has covered Bradford City for over a decade, witnessing their highs like the 2013 League Cup final at Wembley and tougher times in relegation scraps. His descriptive play-by-play is renowned for capturing the intensity of Valley Parade atmospheres, and he'll be analysing Mansfield's defensive vulnerabilities exposed in recent home losses.

Joining as co-commentator is Gary Jones, a Bradford legend who made over 400 appearances for the club between 2007 and 2014. Jones, a combative midfielder, scored crucial goals including in playoff campaigns and now imparts his wisdom from the gantry. His punditry career has flourished post-retirement, with stints at BBC Radio Leeds providing balanced views on team selections and player performances. Together, this trio ensures Bradford supporters get passionate, informed coverage.

BBC Radio Nottingham: Deke Hardman Presents with Dave Bracegirdle and Jonathan D'Laryea

Meanwhile, BBC Radio Nottingham caters to Mansfield Town enthusiasts with their dedicated broadcast. Presenter Deke Hardman helms the show, a veteran of Nottinghamshire football radio. Hardman has been a staple at BBC Radio Nottingham since the early 2000s, commentating on Notts County, Forest and now Mansfield's ascent through the leagues. His career includes iconic coverage of Mansfield's National League promotion in 2022, blending humour with sharp analysis to keep listeners hooked during tense moments.

Main commentator Dave Bracegirdle is the voice of Mansfield, with decades of experience calling Stags games. Bracegirdle's career trajectory saw him rise from local sports reporting to lead commentator, famed for his vivid descriptions of goals at Field Mill (now One Call Stadium). He's covered Mansfield's playoff heartbreaks and triumphs, offering previews on how Bradford's attack, led by players like Antoni Sarcevic with 7 goals, might test the hosts.

Co-commentator Jonathan D'Laryea adds analytical depth. A former professional with spells at clubs like Notts County, D'Laryea transitioned into media, praised for his tactical breakdowns on BBC platforms. His background as a midfielder gives him unique perspectives on midfield battles, crucial in this matchup where Mansfield's Aaron Lewis faces Bradford's threats.

iFollow Mansfield Town: Martin Shaw and Dean Foulkes on Commentary

For video fans, Mansfield Town's iFollow platform offers live streaming with audio commentary by Martin Shaw as main voice and Dean Foulkes as co-commentator. Shaw, a long-time Mansfield broadcaster, has narrated hundreds of Stags matches, from Conference days to League One. His career includes work with club media and local TV, earning acclaim for enthusiastic delivery that mirrors the fans' passion.

Dean Foulkes, ex-Mansfield defender with over 200 appearances in the 1990s, provides expert punditry. Foulkes' playing days included memorable Wembley trips, and his post-career media work focuses on defensive tactics—perfect for dissecting Bradford's solid backline boasting 18 clean sheets this season? Wait, recent stats show competitive defences. iFollow is ideal for global viewers, with purchase options making it accessible.

Match Preview: Mansfield Town vs Bradford City

Mansfield Town, newly promoted to League One, host at One Call Stadium, where they've lost their last three homes but won recent aways like 1-0 at Bolton. Key man William Evans has 5 goals, but home form (5 wins, 3 losses in last 10) needs boosting. Bradford City, play-off contenders in 3rd, have won their last two, including 1-0 vs Port Vale. Antoni Sarcevic's 7 goals spearhead their attack, with strong away record (5 draws, 3 wins in last 10).

Head-to-head history is competitive; recent encounters often low-scoring, aligning with under 2.5 goals tips from pundits. Odds favour Bradford at +128, Mansfield +210. Referee Ross Joyce oversees, known for fair play in EFL.

Why Tune In? The Teams' Seasons So Far

Mansfield (11th) have 23 goals scored, 24 conceded, showing resilience. Recent: W 1-0 Bolton, W 3-2 Barnsley, L 1-2 Stockport. Bradford (3rd) are promotion hopefuls, with victories over Port Vale and Wigan. Their form positions them for automatic spots.

Learn more about Mansfield Town FC official site for tickets and news, Bradford City AFC for squad updates, and EFL League One for full standings.

How to Access the Coverage

Tune into BBC Radio Leeds (95.7 FM, online via BBC Sounds) or BBC Radio Nottingham (103.8 FM, BBC Sounds). iFollow streams via Mansfield's site, typically £10 for non-UK viewers. No TV blackout issues for radio; enjoy from pubs or cars. This fixture embodies League One's unpredictability—Mansfield's home crowd vs Bradford's ambition.

Background on these commentators enriches the experience: from Jones' playing heroics to Bracegirdle's longevity, they connect eras. Whether backing the Stags' fightback or Bantams' surge, these broadcasts ensure no fan misses out. Expect goals from set-pieces, midfield mastery, and New Year's fireworks at One Call Stadium.

In League One's packed schedule, such matches define seasons. Mansfield seek home revival; Bradford, momentum. Radio's intimacy captures it best—tune in at 3pm for glory.