Gary Bowyer was frustrated to have left Brunton Park with a point - following a 0-0 draw at Carlisle United.
The Bantams had chances throughout to win the affair, though were eventually held by their Cumbrian hosts.
The City chief could not fault the endeavour of his players and cited his side’s fortunes as their downfall on Boxing Day.
Bowyer said: “We came with a plan to try and win the three points.
“We made a good start though chances were at slight minimum to begin with.
“Chris Taylor hit the post and we were waiting for Paudie O’Connor’s effort to hit the back of the net after a wonderful free-kick from the returning Matty Palmer.
“We need a little bit of luck either way, in areas, then we will be up and running.
“The effort and application of the boys was terrific again, and I am proud of that.
“People are frustrated and we are too but we are picking up points away from home - which are good habits for the players to get into.”
Despite extending their unbeaten run to five matches, Bowyer’s squad was again hit by an illness which has swept the camp.
The Bantams boss believes this held his team back in the north-west, though refused to blame the result on this.
He added: “We were hit with the illness again.
“Tyler French and a few others were out, we lost Zeli Ismail and Jake Reeves this morning.
“James Vaughan went on for the final 10 minutes and could barely breathe, but was determined to do a job.
“It is definitely hindering us in terms of our momentum and flow with how we want to play, but we are still creating chances and making progress.
“To have to change your captain - through an injury in the warm-up - before the game is very inconvenient.
“The lads are not using these as excuses, which is a real positive. Whoever comes into the side is having a real good go and really fighting for the shirt.”
Bowyer’s men return home against Mansfield Town this Sunday. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.