Mark Hughes has called for "a huge reaction" from his Bantams, as they look to return to winning ways when travelling across Yorkshire to face Doncaster Rovers at the Eco-Power Stadium on Saturday.
The Welshman expects his side to “be more dynamic” in offensive areas, and to learn from their mistakes in the narrow defeat to Barrow last weekend. He believes, if they improve creatively, City are “heading in the right direction”.
Hughes also hopes to take advantage of Doncaster’s upturn in form, and insists Rovers’ more expansive and confident style of play could lead to more chances for the Bantams.
“We needed to be more dynamic at the top end of the pitch against Barrow,” he said.
“We did not create enough, and we have talked about it this week, in how to be more creative.
“We were too safe, so we need to take a few risks. Our last three games have seen a lot of good elements to our game. We still restricted Barrow in key areas.
“If we improve at the top end of the pitch, then we are heading in the right direction. I am expecting a big reaction at the weekend.
“We are looking forward to Doncaster. We enjoyed Stevenage, so we are asking for more of the same.
“They are a side that are feeling they should be doing a little better, and at home, will look to be more brave and expansive.
“We will look to capitalise on that. We do not expect them to be sitting behind the ball, and I think they will look to back their ability.”
The City boss is wary of the threat Saturday’s hosts possess, but reaffirms that his side cannot afford to be intimidated by their change in manager, new signings, or upturn in form.
Hughes celebrates a year in charge at the Bantams tomorrow, and after reflecting on his time at the University of Bradford Stadium, has thanked the supporting Bantams, and hopes to give Saturday's 4,000 travelling fans a reason to cheer.
“They have a good group of players, and it is never easy to go there,” Hughes continued.
“They have picked up a number of key victories recently, which have pushed them into play-off contention.
“However, Doncaster know they are up against a decent team at the weekend, so will not take us lightly.
“I have really enjoyed it (being here a year). We are right in the mix and that is where we want to be.
“It was always going to be difficult, as we have made a lot of changes. I am really excited in what is ahead of us.
“We have identified how we have dropped points recently and if we work on that, particularly our game management, then we will be pushing at the top end of the table.
“You have to place the same significance on every game. Every time we play, it is so important for our end goals, and Saturday is no different.
“We have a huge backing at the weekend. We will endeavour to send the fans home the same way we did away at Stevenage.”
REMINDER: Tickets for Saturday's game are SOLD OUT, with close to 4,000 travelling Bantams set to descend on the Eco-Power Stadium.