Bradford City 0
Reds 1 (Watkins 3)
The Reds started the match in dream fashion as George Williams put in a superb in-swinging cross which evaded the Bradford defence, finding the head of Marley Watkins who gave Barnsley the lead.
The conditions at The Coral Windows Stadium were difficult under foot as both teams slipped on a few occasions due to the heavy rain.
The Reds looked like the dominant team after the goal with Watkins coming close again just a couple of minutes after the goal. The Reds striker went on a mazy run into the Bradford box, cut inside and curled just wide. Watkins
was involved again moments later, as he headed down a long ball to Ashley Fletcher who again, fired just wide.
Bradford did fashion their chance of the half through new signing Jamie Proctor, but Davies got down low and saved well.
George Williams, starting his second consecutive game at left-back was having a half to remember, as he put in more than one strong challenge on Bantams winger Mark Marshall, before then blocking a shot on the line from
Josh Morris to keep the Reds in front.
The defence was holding firm for Barnsley, but it was dealt a blow as Alfie Mawson suffered an injury and had to be substituted. Marc Roberts came off the bench to replace him and won multiple headers, towering over the
Bradford frontline.
Sam Winnall picked up a yellow card for a late challenge right at the end of the half, but as the half-time whistle went, the Reds took a 1-0 lead into the dressing room.
HALF TIME: Bradford 0-1 Reds
