Billy Clarke’s equaliser ensured City finished their pre-season programme with a 1-1 draw against Hartlepool at Valley Parade.

In a dull first half, City went closest through an Andrew Davies header that was scrambled away from in front of goal. Former Bantam winger Jack Compton curled a free-kick wide for Hartlepool.

Things picked up after the break and Scott Flinders saved well from Clarke. The City striker was then denied by a smart block by Matthew Bates, on his return to Valley Parade following his release at the end of last season.

But it was Hartlepool who broke the deadlock after 71 minutes when Bradley Walker, who had just been foiled by a good save from Jordan Pickford, drilled home from the edge of the box.

The lead lasted just over a minute before James Hanson flicked on and strike partner Clarke beat Flinders with the equaliser.

City twice hit the woodwork in the closing stages with sub Mo Shariff making an instant impression with a dipping long-range effort that Flinders tipped on to the bar.