DOYLE DILEMMA
Eoin Doyle has been back for three games and City are still working out how to get the best from him.
He was partnered by Shay McCartan for the first time on Tuesday as James Vaughan began his two-game ban but again enjoyed limited success.
Doyle’s best contribution was to chest down Connor Wood’s long ball to set up Chris Taylor’s shot against the Colchester bar.
COOL HAND LUKE
Luke McGee has made an instant impression after replacing the injured Richard O’Donnell in City’s goal. He has hit the ground running after 13 months without a senior appearance.
The on-loan Portsmouth keeper claimed his first clean sheet without having too much to do, making one good save from Harry Pell in the second half.
But he was confident dealing with crosses and his distribution with his hands and at his feet was excellent.
KEEPING IT TIGHT
Gary Bowyer has criticised City for conceding “soft” goals against Crawley and Scunthorpe. But there was no repeat of that as they kept the door slammed firmly shut at Colchester.
Having conceded only twice in seven games prior to the Crawley loss, the Bantams boss hoped the recent defensive deficiencies were no more than an aberration.
His side rediscovered their solid streak in Essex to claim an 11th shut-out of the season.
MIDFIELD ASSET
City took a long time getting Chris Taylor’s deal over the line because of the red tape surrounding his appearance for Barrow.
But the no-frills midfielder has become a useful asset. He puts a tackle in and is prepared to try things in a unit that has been criticised for playing too safe at times.
He produced the one moment of real quality on Tuesday with an explosive half-volley that rocked the Colchester bar late on.
PRIME TARGET
Clayton Donaldson cannot get back in the City team quick enough.
The longer the experienced frontman has been out, the more he has been missed. The Bantams have nobody who can hold the ball up as he does and bring others into play.
Getting him back on the pitch – and he is very close to a return after three months out with a toe injury – should also benefit Eoin Doyle by offering that physical support up front.
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