David Hopkin cut a frustrated figure following yesterday’s home defeat to Fleetwood Town.
Paddy Madden’s 10th-minute strike proved to be the difference as the Bantams were unable to respond to their early setback.
The City manager insists his side had chances to take something from the game but instead were left to rue a defensive error.
Hopkin said: “It was a frustrating result because we worked on how to stop them all week.
“To concede the goal in the way we did was very poor and it gifted them three points.
“If we had dealt with the cross, which two or three players should before it got to Paddy Madden at the back post, then Fleetwood would not have scored.
“Even if we had taken a point today, it would have been a massive point in the right direction for us - given results elsewhere.
“Instead we are left frustrated. They had one shot on target in the entirety of the game.
“We have players who can create things but when we go behind, it is difficult to come back against a side who manage games as well as Fleetwood do.
“The table is still tight, though, and we have to remain positive. We know we can keep going and need to make sure we remain a League One club.”
Bradford-born Jacob Butterfield made his first start for the Bantams following his deadline day loan move from Derby County.
And Billy Clarke came on in the 68th minute for his first piece of action at the Northern Commercials Stadium since 2017.
Hopkin added: “Jacob did really well for his first full game in a while. You can see the quality he has – two great feet and he showed his ability with a fantastic shot on his left foot.
“Billy Clarke came on and added a great deal of quality in tight areas.
“He put a fantastic free-kick in for a Nat Knight-Percival header, displaying what he can do for us.
“Both of them are quality but haven’t played a lot of football, so it is important we look after them.
“Paudie O’Connor will be in contention for next week, as he has missed out with the loan situation.
“He has been fantastic and remained positive throughout, which is what we want to see from our players.”
Meanwhile, Kelvin Mellor (knee) and Calum Woods (hamstring) will return to full training on Monday, after overcoming injuries.
Sean Scannell is in light training and is expected to be available for selection at the start of next month.