In Graham Alexander’s inaugural match at the University of Bradford Stadium, the Bantams suffered a 2-1 defeat to Barrow.
Barrow quickly took the lead within a minute, with Dom Telford finding the net. However, City managed to level the match thanks to Tyler Smith’s equaliser.
Despite City creating several promising opportunities in the second half, Barrow secured the victory with a goal from George Ray.
It was a less than ideal start to Graham Alexander’s tenure at Valley Parade, as Barrow scored just 24 seconds into the game. Seeking a response, Jamie Walker delivered a low cross to Tyler Smith, whose close-range effort was well saved by Paul Farman.
Nevertheless, Smith equalized with a nearly identical chance after half an hour. Bobby Pointon neatly set up Walker, who pulled back for Smith to score from inside the six-yard area.
City had to make two substitutions in the first half due to injuries to Liam Ridehalgh and his replacement Daniel Oyegoke. This led to Alex Gilliead taking on the left-back role going into halftime.
In the second half, the Bantams emerged with renewed energy and purpose, dominating possession around the Barrow box. Despite several attempts, including a powerful shot from Gilliead that Farman had to parry away, City struggled to find the finishing touch.
Against the run of play, Barrow scored the potential winner in the 77th minute. After Jamie Walker blocked the initial Barrow effort, George Ray seized the opportunity to put the visitors back in front.
Despite City’s continued possession in the closing stages, they were unable to level the game, and Barrow left West Yorkshire with all three points.
