They may not have looked very impressive in Sunday’s first leg but Bradford City boss Mark Hughes sees only positives ahead of the return tomorrow at Carlisle’s Brunton Park.
The experienced City manager is pleased to have a one-goal advantage and feels his players can draw confidence from winning the first leg at Valley Parade.
Looking for a quick start Hughes believes his team has to focus on positivity.
“We are in a winning position, and if we play as good as we did on Sunday, we will come away with the reward of getting into the final.
“In the first half, we were very good, and they looked a bit nervous. We have to start positive.
“There is only so much confidence on a football field, so we have to start strong.
“We have to make our moments in the ascendancy count.
“I would much rather be in our position than in Carlisle’s. We have the confidence of winning the previous game.
“When we look at the last 10 games, we have won more than them – we are in a better place. There is no pressure aimed at us. Our mentality is really strong at the minute.”
Talking to his club website Hughes insists the psychological elements of competitive fixtures are “part and parcel” of football, and senses City are in a comfortable place to get the job done.
“I enjoyed the occasion and the atmosphere of the first leg,” the City chief added.
“It reminded me of my time managing in Europe.
“The feeling of getting the team out on the pitch, and when you achieve a good win like we did, you can take the pride and effort into the next step.
“There is still work to be done. It has been enjoyable so far.
“There is a psychology to any game, but we are confident in our ability and are looking forward to the game.
“I sense we are in a good place. I want to get the job done, as does the team. We are ready to get across the line.”
City will be taking almost 2,000 fans to Brunton Park for the game.
