Mark Hughes was satisfied with his Bantams' dominant performance as preparations for the 2023/24 campaign began with a 6-0 win over Bury at Gigg Lane.
The Welshman was pleased to see a number of different goalscorers getting on the scoresheet, and believes the change in formation and fresh personnel “will help supplement” last season’s top scorer Andy Cook when contributing to goals.
“I was pleased with what we produced - it was a good result,” he said.
“It was a good run-out with plenty of goals in a new formation. Everyone in the squad who is available got some minutes.
“Another factor that works in our favour is that everyone has come through unscathed, but overall I am pleased.
“There was a lot of good play which I am happy to see.
“Naturally, there were a few mistakes and decisions that could have been executed better, but I am pleased.
“We have talked about getting more goals into the team. I think this year we will have that.
“It is important to spread the goals around the team. There is no reason Cooky cannot have a season like he did last time out. If we can supplement his goals, with goals from other areas, then that is going to help us.
“The players we have bought in will also certainly aid that. We all saw Alex Pattison - he was excellent breaking from midfield with pace, and Tyler (Smith) threatened with his movement.”
Hughes was delighted to be part of what was a monumental occasion in Bury’s history, as they returned to Gigg Lane for the first time since their expulsion from the EFL in 2019.
The Bantams boss is looking to replicate this week’s hard work when his side travel to Spain this afternoon, as they end the week of intense training with a fixture against La Liga side Getafe, and the City manager is hoping City can show the Spanish top-flight outfit what they are capable of.
“We are pleased to have been a part of it,” Hughes added.
“You come here and you recognise what a great facility they have at their disposal.
“It was a real shame to see what they have been through in their recent history, but they are on the way up, so best of luck to them.
“We are looking forward to Spain. Hopefully, we can follow this up with another solid week over there.
“We felt this was a good game following a hard-working week, and if we can replicate that next week, I will be really happy.
“Last year in Spain, we felt like we needed that game to cap off a hard-working week.
“Getafe are a really top side, so that will be a good outlet for all the energy and work they will put throughout the week.”
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