Bradford City will be looking to get back to winning ways on Saturday when they host Barnsley at Valley Parade. City were unlucky to lose 1-0 at home to high flying Portsmouth last weekend in a game they probably deserved a draw from.Manager Derek Adams will no doubt be stressing the importance of a positive result here as his side look to consolidate their place in the top half of League Two.
Barnsley come into this one in good form, having gone seven games unbeaten in all competitions.However, they have struggled on their travels in recent weeks, failing to win any of their last four away matches.The Tykes have good quality all over the pitch but so do a Bradford outfit that will be no pushovers in front of their own fans.Much will depend on which side can gain the upper hand in midfield.City's tally of just 12 goals so far at home underlines their issues in the final third, so creating chances will be crucial.At the back they have been reasonably solid, though captain Niall Canavan is unavailable through suspension.
For the away side, Jacob Brown has been in fine form up front with 8 goals already this campaign, though top scorer Cauley Woodrow may have to settle for a place amongst the substitutes after only recently recovering from injury 🏥. Manager Adam Murray has some selection decisions to make but will demand a positive, ball-playing display from his team to break down a well drilled Bradford defence.With pressure mounting to end their winless run on the road, expect Barnsley to come out of the blocks quickly and ask searching questions of the home rearguard early on. Any slip-ups at the back could be ruthlessly punished. 👀
However, City have played some nice football at times this term and possess enough quality in their ranks to hurt opponents if given space in forward areas. It promises to be a tight contest with little to choose between the sides. Bothmanagers will settle for a point apiece but know three is up for grabs. Bradford maybe just edge it in front of their vociferous faithful, with a moment of quality making the difference in a narrow victory. But don't be surprised if it ends all square in an entertaining Yorkshirederby. One thing is for sure, this one won't be short of passion and intensity! 💪 - https://mbscore.tv/match/bradford-city-vs-barnsley-18929734