CITY’S run-in will be no place for the faint-hearted.

That is the rallying cry from James Mason as the tension ratchets up in the race for League One’s top six.

The damaging defeat at Fleetwood has raised the stakes even higher for tomorrow’s Valley Parade reunion with Phil Parkinson and Bolton.

With 14 games to go, chief operating officer Mason reckons the season “starts now” against another promotion rival – and believes the fans can play their part.

Mason said: “We can only look forward. Disappointment is part of sport, as is success – the reaction going forward to either outcome is far more important.

“As it stands we have 51 points, fact. We’re fifth, fact. How we got those points doesn’t matter any more. It’s about the next 14 games and how we strongly we finish the season.

“One thing League One guarantees is that things will go to the wire and with so many teams still in the mix, it bodes well for an exciting few months.

“We welcome Phil Parkinson, his back room staff and families who many of us know well.

"Phil gave us some lifelong memories that we will never forget at this club. That must never be forgotten.

"But we're all professional and both sides want to win, so for the full 90 minutes those with a Bradford persuasion need to do everything within their powers to bring about a positive outcome, from our support from the stands to the players’ commitment on the pitch.

“We have one of the most atmospheric grounds in the country for big occasions and a fan-base capable of delivering unique support.

“We have proved with the games against Sheffield United and Scunthorpe that when away teams travel in numbers, it brings the best out in this club.”

Mason revealed that City have a number of plans to build the atmosphere ahead of the kick-off for a game he feels would not be out of place in the Championship.

He said: “Bolton fans will be riding high. They were recently a Premier League club with players and a budget to match. But we’ve also done a phenomenal job with our resources since the summer.

“We now need to take our opportunity and be prepared for the twists and turns ahead. This run-in will not be for the faint-hearted.

“If fans come expecting us to win, it’s the wrong attitude.

“Just like with any player expecting to win a game, it doesn’t work like that. You need to earn the right.”

City’s grip on a League One play-off spot has weakened after winning only one of the last six games. Millwall and Southend could both overtake them.

Mason hopes the Valley Parade crowd can create a wall of noise on another key afternoon.

He said: “My message is simple. Every time one of our players takes a corner or throw-in, only offer loud, positive encouragement.

“Guess what, it works. If the players raise their arms to you wanting a lift, it’s your responsibility to lift them.

“It cuts both ways and when you leave the stadium, everyone – and I mean everyone – has to be able to say they did their bit.

“We all have the same goal, so there is no point in being fractious. The time for analysis is at the end of the season, not after one game.

“Let’s unite and see what we can really achieve. Let’s support Stuart (McCall) and the team for every game until the end of the season.

“Opinions, yes, will divide. Division leads to fall-out. Fall-outs weaken teams. Weakened teams get beaten. We’re not weak, we’re Bradford City.”