DEREK Adams praised City’s fighting spirit after bouncing back from their Covid shutdown with a 2-1 win at Barrow.

Andy Cook scored on his return after two months out with a hamstring injury after Lee Angol had netted an early goal.

But the Bantams came under pressure after Barrow pulled one back before claiming their first win in eight league games.

Adams said: “I knew it was going to be a difficult afternoon. Barrow had obviously been playing a lot of games when we didn’t and we haven’t had many days training.

“We had a number of players on the pitch today who had tested positive for the virus and we had an injured player coming back as well.

“It was a massive test and the mentality within the squad was excellent.

“I thought the fighting spirit and willingness to go and win the match was great.

“This is not an easy place to come to at the best of times. We showed great character to get the win that enables us to get closer to where we want to be.”

Angol scored after just eight minutes and Cook doubled the advantage straight after the restart. But Josh Gordon’s quick response ensured a tense final half hour.

Adams added: “We only needed to have a five or 10-minute spell after scoring and that would have been the game over.

“We didn’t and allowed them that grasp to get back into the game. Barrow play with a freedom and go and attack you.

“They leave spaces but unfortunately we just didn’t have the energy to get on the end of it.”

Fatigue inevitably crept in from the after effects of the virus which forced City to postpone their previous three games.

“We knew that could be the case and changed the formation numerous times,” said Adams. “It was hard because Barrow were having decent possession but didn’t really have too many big opportunities.

“I could have made another few substitutions because of the tiredness we’ve had throughout the squad because of the virus.

“But it showed the mentality they had to get that win and the way we defended the box.

“We’re delighted we haven’t picked up any injuries. The ones who have had a tiredness or an illness we’ll assess again on Monday.”

Barrow thought they had levelled through Gordon but an “equaliser” was ruled out for a foul on Sam Hornby. Adams felt referee Seb Stockbridge made the right call.

“Sam got pushed in the back. The boy just pushed him past the post.”