DEREK Adams praised “brave” Paudie O’Connor after City hit back to clinch their first Valley Parade victory since October.

O’Connor headed the winner in today’s 2-1 win over Gary Bowyer’s Salford – despite having a tooth knocked out earlier in the game.

Salford striker Brandon Thomas-Asante, who had fired the visitors ahead, was sent off for elbowing the City centre half in the face.

The Bantams hit back twice after the break for their first home league win in seven games.

Adams said: “Paudie showed his bravery at the end to get that header. He’s lost a tooth and has had to go to get some dental surgery.

“It was a red card. The amount of blood that came from him after losing a tooth proved that.

“But I thought it was a really good performance.

“We started the game very well and dominated the first half. I thought we were unlucky to go a goal down.

“Niall Canavan slips and they get a 1-0 lead out of nothing.

“But over the piece, we got what we deserved. It was only a matter of time before we scored.”

Andy Cook started on the bench but came on early in the second half – and was involved straight away in the equaliser when his header deflected in off Ryan Watson.

City’s pressure was then rewarded when O’Connor headed in Callum Cooke’s cross.

Cooke also came on as a sub as Adams made five changes from the Carlisle loss.

The City chief gave a debut to Jamie Walker – and was delighted with the Hearts loanee.

He added: “Jamie was the best player on the pitch today with the way he took the ball and opened up the defence. He looked a class act.

“What he does really well is sprints. That’s what you need in your team in this modern day.”

Former boss Bowyer felt that Thomas-Asante’s dismissal – his second this season - changed the course of the game “It was the right decision,” he admitted.

“I’m not disappointed with the decision but I am disappointed with the way that the red card resulted.”