It was an emotional day at Valley Parade as the 56 people who died in the fire disaster almost 30 years ago were remembered in the presence of England manager Roy Hodgson and FA chairman Greg Dyke.
Striker Jon Stead scored the only goal as Bradford secured a 1-0 victory over Yorkshire rivals Barnsley in their final home game of the season, which began with a minute's silence and the laying of wreaths by captains Stephen Darby (Bradford) and Martin Cranie (Barnsley).
Hodgson and Dyke also laid a wreath at the fire memorial at the ground.
Manager Phil Parkinson was delighted with the way the Bradford players coped with the day.
He said: "I am very pleased for many reasons, none more so than the poignancy of the day.
"Straightaway after our midweek game at Scunthorpe we had a chat with the players about our preparations for this game.
"A lot of them went to see a play about the Bradford fire this week. They understood how important it was for the the city of Bradford and the supporters to play as well as they could and do the day justice.
"There was added pressure on us today because we had to do the occasion justice.
Tykes manager Lee Johnson, whose team have gone nine games without a win, said: "The Bradford fire was an horrendous tragedy. The players understood the significance of the occasion and I thought everyone dealt with it in a really good manner.
"Everyone came together and it is good for the young players to deal with, whatever atmosphere arises. That is how they learn."
Meanwhile, a group of 50 Barnsley supporters walked from their Oakwell ground to Valley Parade in time for Saturday’s game.
The walk had been organised by Barnsley’s fanzine, West Stand Bogs, with all proceeds going to the Bradford Burns Unit.
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