Game 3 – Grinding Out a Tough Win
This was a different kind of challenge.
Bradford had steamrolled most teams this season with their relentless pressing and high-tempo attacking football. But this time, their opponent had a different plan—sit deep, frustrate, and kill the game's rhythm.
From the opening whistle, it was clear what Bradford were up against. Two defensive banks of four, little space in behind, every passing lane blocked.
For the first time in weeks, they weren't in full control.
Bradford dominated possession, but every attack hit a brick wall. Silva and Mensah tried to stretch the defense, but the opposition's full-backs refused to be dragged out of position. Novak and Costa barely saw the ball, suffocated by a crowded penalty area.
By halftime, it was still 0-0.
Jake paced the touchline, arms crossed. This was exactly what the opposition wanted—to frustrate, to force Bradford into mistakes, to make them impatient.
But Jake's team didn't panic.
