David Hopkin spoke of his pride following the Bantams’ Emirates FA Cup battle with Peterborough, despite City exiting the competition on penalties.
Entering half-time 3-1 down, Hopkin’s men battled back to lead 4-3 through George Miller, David Ball and Paul Caddis
The visitors hit back with five minutes remaining, forcing the contest into extra-time, before edging a 3-2 shoot-out success at the Northern Commercials Stadium.
However, manager Hopkin praised the heroic efforts of his players following the final whistle.
The City boss said: “It was a fantastic cup tie. We were unfortunate to go into the break 3-1 down, as we were the better team.
“We conceded three poor goals, yet again, but knew we had what it took to get back into the game.
“The players knew we could come back from two goals, because we did it in the last game against them.
“They gave me everything. The fitness levels were great and we managed to score four fantastic goals.
“I am obviously disappointed that we are out of the cup but I could not be prouder of the lads.
“Full credit to George Miller for getting two goals. A few weeks ago, he was low on confidence, but he has worked hard. He has shown that in his performances against Plymouth and Peterborough.
“It was a superb effort and I am absolutely delighted to be manager of Bradford City after that performance.”
Hopkin’s side have now scored seven goals in their previous two fixtures, the highest amount since he took charge.
But it was the mental strength and resilience of his Bantams which impressed him most.
Hopkin added: “The fans, again, were fantastic. The players are bonding with them through these types of performances.
“We have gone out on penalties, which we all know can be a bit of a lottery. But the result will show another draw, another game without losing in normal time.
“When you score seven goals across two games, you expect to win those games - and we didn’t.
“But the attitude is there from the players. We have goal-scorers in the team and players who will work right up to the final whistle.
“The players are starting to believe. We created a great deal of quality chances against tough opposition.
“The mental strength at this club is changing, which is the biggest positive we can take from performances like last night’s.”
City return to action this Saturday, playing host to Walsall in Sky Bet League One.
Tickets are available and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE, or visiting the ticket office.
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