BRADFORD City Women were left cursing another slow start as they fell to defeat at Leicester City in a 5-4 thriller.

The Foxes raced into a 3-0 lead on Sunday and, despite Bradford bringing it back to 3-3, the hosts nicked the points with two late goals.

It was an eventful afternoon that left Bantams player-manager Charlotte Stuart with mixed feelings.

“The more I reflect on it the more I find myself disappointed,” she said. “Again, a very poor start gifted Leicester three goals, but then the desire and determination from the girls to get back into the game was exceptional.

“When we levelled it out at 3-3 we thought it was ours for the taking. We dominated the game.

“But it was lack of concentration again that cost us, and to concede as many goals as we did in the manner we did was very disappointing.

“I can’t knock the girls’ heart and passion – we just need to reduce silly errors.”

Goals from Mo McIntosh, Sophie Domingo and Rosie Axten saw City get off to the worst possible start, going 3-0 down after only 12 minutes.

Hannah Campbell pulled one back for the Bantams before her replacement made a real impact as Bradford fought back.

Ellie Olds was quick to get involved after being introduced at the break, setting up Stuart to score and then finding the back of the net herself to equalise.

However, two late goals saw Leicester retake the lead and wrap up the win, despite Laura Elford bagging City’s fourth of the day in the final minutes.

The result means Bradford finish the season eighth, but after plenty of summer change – and with a cup final on the horizon – Stuart admits she is proud of their season.

“We knew from the start this was always going to be a tough season, the toughest one we have had for some time,” she said.

“The girls have given everything they could have and made me very proud. It’s only the fine margins that have cost us.

“I hope we can go on to lift the County Cup now because these players deserve it,” she added. “We just need to build on this season now and enjoy good preparation for the next.”