City manager Derek Adams was keen to focus on the positives of his side’s display - despite their 3-0 defeat to Sky Bet League One Lincoln City in the Papa John’s Trophy.
The clinical Imps netted three times in the opening 50 minutes to secure victory over the Bantams at the Utilita Energy Stadium.
Despite losing out, Adams was encouraged by the way his side performed, and believes they competed well on the evening.
He said: “Even though we lost, this was an encouraging performance from us, particularly in the first half where we created plenty of opportunities.
“In fairness to Lincoln, they were clinical and showed great quality when they had the chances - which was the difference between the two teams.
“They have a very good group of players, but we matched up to them well for the majority of the 90 minutes.
“Admittedly, we could have defended better, and this is something we will look to improve on moving forward.”
Adams also believes his players will learn lots from going up against a side who are a division above them.
The Imps made it to the Sky Bet League One Play-Off Final last season and Adams feels they are currently operating at a level which the Bantams are aiming for.
He added: “When you face a team who are in a higher league, it is always going to be a difficult challenge.
“We will not come up against teams of this quality every week in League Two so, when we do, we can learn valuable lessons from it.
“They are currently at a level which we aspire to be at, and we will continue to work hard in order to get there.”
The Bantams are back in action this Saturday, when taking on Walsall (3.00pm). CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.