Yellows

Oxford United were today's visitors at Valley Parade and the first success was actually getting myself and the kids to the match after the forgotten ticket debacle a fortnight ago.

With four games to go at the start of play Oxford were in the small pack trying to chase down a late spot among the League One play-off places. Bradford City have been in those places all season and were seeking another win to move a step closer to securing a play-off opportunity for the second season running.

There was added interest for me in the form of Everton loanee Conor McAleny and former Everton youngster John Lundstram in the Oxford lineup. McAleny was a lively threat throughout, but its unlikely he'll ever return to the senior set up at Goodison. Lundstram still looks quality and it wouldn't surprise me if he gets another chance at a higher level.

City played pretty well but struggled to convert chances and pressure into goals until Nicky Law bundled one in at the far post early in the second half. United threatened on the break and McAleny had a few shots but all were dealt with either by Colin Doyle in the Bradford goal, or one of the reliable defence.

1-0 it remained, so another valuable three points for the Bantams. But all the other play-off contenders won too, so City may still need another win for a play-off spot, although they have a six point cushion over Southend in 7th, with only three matches to go. 

The next game is away at champions elect Sheffield United on Easter Monday. If it's anything like the match between the two at Valley Parade earlier in the season it will be a classic. At the end of that game I said at least one of the two teams would get promoted, well Sheffield United have proved me right but we're still hoping for a double.

Today's image is of the Oxford players in their huddle just before kick-off. They looked a tidy team and are themselves on the up following their promotion from League Two last season. It wouldn't surprise me to see them challenging at the top end of League One next season.