Richie Smallwood hopes the Bantams can build on Tuesday’s impressive victory against Mansfield Town, and expects City to “rise up to the occasion” once more ahead of tomorrow's trip to Sutton United.
The Bantams captain confessed his pride after scoring in Nottinghamshire, as he aims to contribute with more goals and assists to provide an extra option in attacking areas.
He said: “Tuesday’s win was a statement. It was quite similar to Salford in the sense that we beat a side around us, played well and got three points.
“It was difficult when we went down to 10 men, but we showed a different mindset and focus. We worked hard and deserved the victory.
“We had to have a better shape than at home, and put in a proper gritty performance. We will aim to be the same on Saturday.
“I was thrilled to score. The goal was quite similar to my other chances in how it fell to me on the edge of the box.
“Normally, they get blocked, but on Tuesday it flew in! I was so pleased and almost relieved that one finally went in.
“I want to try and add some more goals and assists to my game.
“I am always happy to contribute. At my old club, I was told to push onto the edge of the box more and not to worry about what was behind me, so I have tried to do that again this season.
“Sometimes, your eyes light up and you do not get a good connection, but on Tuesday it was perfect.”
City's No.6 eyes another enjoyable visit to the VBS Community Stadium and expects City to continue their impressive away form against an unpredictable Sutton side on Saturday.
Smallwood is also enjoying playing alongside Alex Gilliead in the centre, admitting the No.11's work rate and energy makes for a solid midfield partnership.
“I have never played Sutton and have not heard much about them since I came here in the summer,” Smallwood added.
“I know they had a good season last year with being close to the play-offs, and had a decent cup run too. They are used to being the underdogs.
“We need that hunger and fight to continue from Tuesday. We need to keep pushing and get another big three points on the board against Sutton.
“I am sure they will pose a danger, and we will find a way to threaten them.
“I really like playing with Gilly. He has so much energy and is very well disciplined.
“He is very good at talking and has great experience. He can handle the ball well and, even as a person, he is great to play alongside and we work well together.
“There are times where me and Alex have to get involved going forward, where we have to make the overloads and help Andy (Cook) and the other attackers out.
“Gilly is great at making those little runs into the box and I tend to stay a little further back and support when needed.
“The team has great balance and momentum at the minute, to allow us to build on Tuesday's win.”
Tickets will be available to purchase on the day tomorrow, with close to 800 Bantams set to make the trip. Read full details HERE.