Gary Bowyer was delighted with the attitude of his players after contesting a 1-1 draw against Sky Bet Championship side Wigan Athletic.
The City boss moved to praise his men after a positive showing at the Utilita Energy Stadium - against second-tier opposition - and was pleased with the application they displayed.
Bowyer said: “The most important thing was getting more minutes in the legs.
“We were focused on how we have been training this week and trying to transfer it into the game.
“I thought the way we played in the first half was very good and I was extremely impressed with the boys’ application.
“We were aware Wigan were going to bring a good challenge and I am pleased with how we coped.
“There are certainly lots of positives to take from this friendly.”
Bowyer says competition for places in the squad will increase over the coming days, in preparation for City's final two pre-season outings against Bradford (Park Avenue) and Rochdale.
The Bantams entertain Cambridge United in their Sky Bet League Two opener, on August 3, and the former Blackpool chief is looking forward to seeing how his players progress.
He added: “It is essential for the boys, at this stage of pre-season, to get as many minutes as possible and gain as much momentum as they can.
“We are getting to competition time now, with regards to the starting 11, for the first league game of the season.
“I am looking for everyone to continue applying themselves properly, to push each other on and make my squad-selecting decisions as hard as possible.
“We must continue the hard work and make sure everyone is kept fit. It is all about doing what we see best as we approach the Cambridge match."