Manager Paul Jewell today rounded on Bradford City's critics.

Pundits and commentators have been highly critical of some of City's recent performances, suggesting they have been lucky to win, but Jewell refutes their criticisms.

And Alan Ball fired more flak at the Bantams after Saturday's 2-1 win over his Portsmouth side.

Speaking before tonight's game at relegation threatened Port Vale, he said: "I am getting fed up of people saying, 'what is going on - you are not playing well.'

"We all want to play well, but I remember us playing well at Birmingham and Huddersfield and coming away with nothing. After 41 games we are not where we are without playing well.

"The players have worked hard and it speaks volumes for them that, without playing at our best, we have come away with nine points from three matches in eight days.

"We have scored the second most goals of anyone in all four divisions and yet people say we are not playing well. I just hope they are saying that for the next five games.

"We had a shocking start and the players were lambasted for that, but we have been in the top six since December and all credit to the players for that."

Such has been their consistency that City have lost only three of their last 21 league matches.

They aim to climb back above Ipswich into second place tonight.

A draw or a win would enable them to regain the second automatic promotion place.

Jewell, who was 'quite pleased' with Ipswich's result said: "Port Vale are at the opposite end of the table to us, but we know it is going to be an immense game for us.

"It is going to be a tough game, but we have players who are capable of getting results.

Winger Peter Beagrie who has been suffering an ankle strain is fit and Jewell will make his selection from all his professional staff.

Vale pair, Martin Foyle (knee ligaments) and Simon Barker (shoulder) are doubtful.

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