Skip to main content Skip to site footer
Match Previews

HUGHES: ’SATURDAY IS A REAL OPPORTUNITY’

16 March 2023

Match Previews

HUGHES: ’SATURDAY IS A REAL OPPORTUNITY’

16 March 2023

Sponsored by

Mark Hughes has identified City's next two home fixtures as "a real opportunity", ahead of Saturday's visit of Hartlepool United. 

Pools visit the University of Bradford Stadium at 1.00pm on Saturday, before City host fellow promotion hopefuls Carlisle United next Tuesday (7.45pm). 

The Bantams boss notices the importance of next few games, and hopes his side can display effective and confident creativity, as they look to extend their unbeaten run. 

“Every game from now is significant,” Hughes said.

“Our next few games, including Saturday, are a real opportunity for us.

“We are playing well at the moment. Our last game at home was perfect, in terms of the result and the atmosphere. 

“It is not a must-win game - I do not believe we are at that point yet - but we go with the intention of winning every game. 

“It is important we make the most of every chance of getting points on the board.

“We can manage games well now, but the key thing is mainly to not concede. We are going to be on the front foot.

“The confidence in the group is really good at the moment.” 

The Welshman reflected on the draw to Newport County last Saturday, and highlighted the importance of finding the “extra cushions” in games, to eliminate the possibility of losing points.

Hughes aims to replicate the resilience displayed in his side's last showing at the University of Bradford Stadium, and admits when “everyone is on side”, away teams will struggle to compete.

“I thought the way we started the first half at Newport was fantastic,” he added.

“I would like the same again on Saturday.

“It was unfortunate how we conceded, but for the most part we controlled the game well. 

“We have been speaking for a long time on dispatching teams more convincingly, because we need that extra cushion.

“Certainly at home, if we go two goals to the good, then opposition teams will struggle.

“Everybody in the stadium loved the emotion we showed against Colchester. A lot of people have told me it was one of the best atmospheres Valley Parade has seen in years.

“We had fantastic support, and we kept on pushing to get our reward.

“If we show our drive, purpose and resilience, then we know our fans will stick with us. 

“Everybody has to be on side for our next two games, and if we do that, opposition teams will struggle to keep up with us.” 

To secure your ticket for Saturday's clash, and SAVE on increased matchday admission prices, please CLICK HERE by 11.59PM TOMORROW. 


Advertisement block

iFollow Next Match Tickets Contact