Stuart McCall took plenty of positives from his side’s narrow 4-3 pre-season defeat to Sky Bet League One outfit Doncaster Rovers.
Goals from Billy Clarke and Kurtis Guthrie (2) were not enough to avoid defeat in a behind-closed-doors clash at the Utilita Energy Stadium.
But the Bantams boss was satisfied with the run-out his side got, and stressed the importance of getting minutes into the players’ legs.
He said: “There were a lot of positives and, naturally, a few negatives. You can never get away from the fact that I do not like losing.
“To lose the game was disappointing but, overall, there was a lot of good stuff on show and were plenty of positives to be taken. Above all, it is great to be back out at Valley Parade.
“It was a very valuable workout with the things we learnt about the system and our own players, as well as the young lads who have come through.
“I think, throughout the season, we will come up against opponents who will want to go about things differently to how we do. With that in mind, friendlies like this are important.”
The Scotsman was encouraged by how his side performed against higher-league opposition and praised the attacking intent his players showed.
He feels, despite there being room for improvement ahead of the start of the 2020/21 campaign, the Bantams are forming good habits.
McCall added: “Since we have come in, it has been about having a look at everyone, in different positions and formations. The team spirit and work ethic is going to get us to where we want to be.
“We are going against sides who are playing one, if not, two levels above us - and players who are technically going to be better than ours.
“There have been some really good performances, individually and collectively as a group, which is certainly encouraging.
“We scored three goals against a very good opponent in Doncaster and I was impressed by the manner in which we scored our goals and created chances.
“While there are plenty of positives to take, we still have stuff which we will look to work on in training.”
McCall's men face their next pre-season outing next Wednesday (August 26), where they make the short trip to West Yorkshire neighbours Huddersfield Town (7.00pm).