Mark Hughes was satisfied with the endeavour and work ethic of his Bantams, as City drew 1-1 with Newport County at Rodney Parade.
The Welshman admitted his side “lost control” as the Exiles’ growing pressure in the encounter was rewarded just after the hour mark, and the 59-year-old encouraged the Bantams to work on sustaining periods of attacking play.
“It was difficult towards the end of the game,” he said.
“We coped well with the long balls in the box - especially in the first half. They had a go, and unfortunately, we lost a bit of our control.
“It has been a huge effort, though. We have only had one defeat in the last 11, and had seven away games in that time.
“We missed a little preparation, because of the weather, but I thought - for the most part - it was a solid performance.
“I put on attacking substitutes, and we tried to chase the game. We struggled to get out of our own half with any quality at times.
“We need to work on sustaining pressure in creative areas. It was hard, but we need to get better in those areas.”
Hughes understood fatigue and tiredness may have crept into areas of City’s attacking play, but was content with the output and threat the attack - led by Andy Cook and Dara Costelloe - offered in the first half.
The City boss welcomes the upcoming rest, with no midweek outing, but hopes the Bantams can reset and recover ahead of a home double header next week.
“Andy is in great shape and is doing very well. With him alongside Dara, we did offer a threat.
“Perhaps, we were a little fatigued in areas, which is understandable. We have done a lot of travelling.
“I will not criticise the guys for that. It is a huge effort and I am proud of them.
“The rest is welcomed. It has been Saturday-Tuesday for a couple of weeks, now.
“The staff included, too. It does take a little out of everybody.
“It has been a huge effort from us all. Next weekend, we will be ready to go again.”
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