Andy Cook’s triumphant return saw him secure a hat-trick, propelling the Bantams to a resounding 4-1 victory over Newport County at Rodney Parade.
Within the first half-hour in South Wales, Bradford City surged ahead with a 3-0 lead. A commanding display enabled them to achieve their first away triumph over the Exiles since 1985.
The City side initiated the game strongly, taking the lead within the opening 15 minutes. Rayhaan Tullouch, displaying promise on his full debut, breached the box and delivered a precise centre to Cook, who executed a powerful header.
A little over 10 minutes later, the sustained pressure from the Bantams paid off as they doubled their lead. Kevin McDonald, reinstated in the starting lineup, delivered a low, precise pass across the six-yard box for Tulloch to guide the ball beyond Nick Townsend at the far post.
City dominated the first half, securing a three-goal advantage before the half-hour mark. Cook outmanoeuvred his marker, met a ball played behind the defence, and bested Townsend in a one-on-one, placing the ball into the bottom-right corner for his second goal.
Despite City maintaining their intensity, the next goal fell in favour of the hosts. In the 35th minute, Omar Bogle reduced the deficit for Newport, skillfully rounding Harry Lewis before slotting the ball into an unguarded net.
The second half saw a quieter pace, with City preserving their comfortable lead and repelling the Exiles’ advances. Nevertheless, Cook found the opportunity to conclude his exceptional performance, securing his hat-trick in the second minute of added time.
He connected with Liam Ridehalgh’s cross and executed yet another unstoppable header into the County net, ensuring City left with three points in hand.
