Stuart McCall has called for a competitve City performance - ahead of tomorrow's visit of high-flying Cheltenham Town.
The Bantams welcome the second-placed Robins to the Utilita Energy Stadium having bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday.
McCall insists his side must go into the clash with a competitive, resolute nature - against a side he believes will bring a tough challenge.
He said: "We have to be as competitive as we can, because we are up against a strong side.
"The manager has done a good job there and, as we as being a physical side, they can also play good football.
"It is going to be a challenge - and one we have to rise to. We need to be resolute, and that comes from within.
"We must look for ways in which we can hurt them, and create opportunities.
"Carrying a threat ourselves, and not just looking to limit the threat they will bring, is important.
McCall also spoke about how injuries within the City camp must dive more determination among the players who are on the field.
He is looking for his players to rise to the challenge they will face against Michael Duff's team, in order to secure a result.
The City chief added: "We now have seven or possibly eight players out tomorrow, and that alters how we approach the game.
"It is challenging, but we have to drive through the situation, and the lads on the field have to step up to the plate.
"It is about running faster, jumping higher and tackling harder than your opponents - once you are out on the field.
"We need to do everything we can to try and win the game, regardless of who we have out on the field."