Bantams eyeing final double

Steve Davis anticipates another tough encounter against cup killers Bradford City in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tomorrow night. Phil Parkinson’s side can certainly caught the public’s imagination with their giant killing feats in the Capital One Cup after most famously knocking Arsenal out of the competition on penalties and defeating Aston Villa 3-1 in the fist-leg of their semi-final.

They still have to travel to Villa Park, the following week with a chance to reach the League Cup Final at Wembley. Having also progressed to the semi-final stage of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, the Bantams have experienced a tight fixture schedule and that has meant their current league form has been indifferent.

Steve told crewealex.net: “Bradford have had a terrific run in the Capital One Cup and take a two goal lead to Villa Park soon. They are capable of getting through and getting to Wembley and what an achievement that would be.

“They have also reached the semi-final stage of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and will want to progress to play Coventry in the Northern Final just as much as we did. It is a chance to get to Wembley and enjoy some success.

“They have been occupied by cup runs and it does take its toll when you are playing Premier League opposition on heavy pitches. It can be mentally and physically tough and they are bound to feel it. Playing a lot of fixtures can take its toll and that has led to some tough games in the league, when others teams haven’t played in the week and will be fresher.

“Phil Parkinson is a very shrewd manager and he will be looking to get that balance right between the two, because they still have a chance of getting into the play-offs. Their priority will still be to get out of the division.

“I’m not sure what Phil will do with a tough league game coming up against Port Vale and then a trip to Villa Park. They will be careful not to lose key players, whilst also thinking this is a great chance to get through to a final.”