Fans in city centre pubs remain upbeat (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Fans in city centre pubs remain upbeat

6:46pm Sunday 24th February 2013 in News By Chris Young, T&A Reporter

Bradford City fans packed into Bradford’s pubs to watch the action on big screens this afternoon.

And most remained in high spirits despite the scoreline.

Those watching the match in Haigys, in Lumb Lane, included Barry Roots, 63, the former owner of Roots Record Shop.

Mr Roots, who has lived in the area since he was 17, said: “I am not really a football fan, but this whole situation has really pulled people together. It is all about integration. It has really helped this area of Bradford, and hopefully it will bring people back to the city. People have been leaving and there is no investment, I hope this will change things.”

David Bayley, 49, a postman from Allerton, and although not a Bradford supporter he has lived in the city for 30 years, wanted to get behind the team.

He said the writing was on the wall at half time. He added: “There is no shame losing to Swansea. They are a really good footballing team. They might not have the kudos of a team like Liverpool, but they are one of the Premiership’s best teams. We didn’t have a player to turn the game around. It has been a fantastic experience for the team.”

Meanwhile in the City Vaults pub, in Hustlergate, Bradford, fans stood shoulder to shoulder to soak up the atmosphere and cheer on their team.

Life-long fans and general supporters of football remained upbeat throughout and clapped and chanted for Bradford.

Andy Forest, 50 said: “We had nothing to prove, it was just great to get this far in the first place. I actually found today emotional, when I woke up this morning I was really excited that the day had come.”

Stuart Mitchell, 53, who is proud to say he has owned his City scarf since 1969, said: "I am disappointed but am so proud we got there to the final it is unfortunate we just didn’t perform on the day.

“The atmosphere in the pub was just brilliant."