STUART McCall watched City move to within two rounds of Wembley in the Checkatrade Trophy and said: "We got what we wanted."

Jordy Hiwula's second-half goal proved enough on a tough pitch at Cheltenham last night to earn a quarter-final crack at Oxford next Tuesday.

McCall was happy with the attitude of his side to master the conditions against a League Two side who had netted nine times in their previous two games.

The City boss said: "It was all about the determination of the players to give everything they had. We won't play on a worse pitch – it was a cow field.

"I felt first half we were bright but they caused us problems second half with the long throw and big boys. It was always going to be a physical encounter.

"There are a lot of tired bodies but it was a determined effort. The tackles were flying in and we stood up to it."

City, who received £40,000 for the win, rested Nicky Law and James Meredith because McCall felt the pitch would not suit their game. The Bantams chief also rubbished a rumour linking Meredith with Norwich.

"As much as £40,000 is a lot of money to Cheltenham, it means just as much to us," he said.

"I'm sure the owners will be pleased that we got through, as well as the 92 fans who came down – it was terrific for them.

"We've probably got the toughest tie now we could have got, going away to Oxford. But there's a big incentive and the lads are buzzing."

Josh Cullen suffered stud marks on his thigh and his knee but McCall is confident he will be fine for another physical encounter against Millwall at Valley Parade this weekend.

The Bantams manager said: "He's a tough little fella and I'm sure Josh will be fine. We've got to rest up now and have two light days to make sure we're ready for another battle on Saturday."