Bradford City fans are being urged to fly the flag for the Bantams in tomorrow's crunch clash with Derby County at Valley Parade.

Paul Jewell's men are facing their most vital game of the season with anything but victory unthinkable if they are to retain any hope of avoiding relegation.

City start the game six points behind the Rams and Wimbledon with the Dons also having played a game more.

And supporters' leaders are calling on fans to turn Valley Parade into a sea of claret and amber when the players run out for the biggest game of the season so far.

Supporters' club chairman Julie Stainthorpe said: "We are calling on all supporters to bring flags and scarves down to the ground tomorrow.

"We want to give the players a warm welcome on to the pitch and believe that coming out of the tunnel to be met by a sea of claret and amber will be a huge boost for them.

"We have spoken to the club and providing the flags are not on brush-style poles which could be used as a weapon then they can be brought into the ground.

"We want to do all we can for the team. Against Wimbledon we are also proposing an inflatables day while for the last match against Liverpool we want fans to bring along balloons."

Chairman Geoffrey Richmond recognises how vital tomorrow's game is and has backed the plan.

He said: "This is a very positive step from the supporters and should ensure a marvellous atmosphere ahead of such a crucial game.

"The game is heading for a sell out with only around 200 tickets left yesterday afternoon.

"Derby sold their full allocation out very quickly and they are also beaming back the game live for supporters unable to purchase tickets.

"It is part of a reciprocal agreement between Premier League clubs whereby a match can be beamed back to the ground of the visiting club. There is no money involved.

"I understand it is very rare for Derby to beam back a game live and shows the important that is being attached to the game both up here but also in Derby."

City's chief safety office Roger Holmes added: "In common with every game this season, fans will be able to bring in flags on normal poles to wave in support of the team.

"The only problem we do have is with large thick poles and large banners. The banners can be a fire hazard and also spoil people's view of the game so will not be allowed."

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.