Ashley Westwood is hoping his first goal for Bradford City will herald a change of fortune for the rest of the season.

The 22-year-old defender headed a vital 75th-minute equaliser at muddy Valley Parade last night to pave the way for a dramatic 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace.

And his goal should clinch him a place in City's side to face Newcastle in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday.

After Peter Beagrie's 87th- minute penalty had sealed a win which pushes City four points clear of third-placed Bolton, Westwood revealed how he hopes to finally put his injury nightmare behind him

Last night's game was only his fifth start since his summer transfer from Crewe.

He said: "It has been a very frustrating time for me, so to score that goal was very special.

"To be honest, I am just pleased to be playing after the first half of the season I have had.

"The spirit at the club is tremendous, so even when we went behind we thought we could grab at least one goal, and I am just glad it was me.

"Lee Mills did very well because he took both centre halves with him to allow me the chance. Hopefully I can now earn a run in the team."

City's late penalty infuriated the Palace players, who accused substitute Isaiah Rankin of diving when challenged by keeper Kevin Miller.

And two minutes after Beagrie had converted the spot-kick, Palace left back Fan Jihai was shown his second yellow card for a very late challenge on Rankin.

Palace boss Steve Coppell said: "I was at ground level so I could not see if there was contact for the penalty. I was not happy with the way my players reacted, although it did show that they care.

"But that reaction makes me think there was not a great deal of contact. However, if the keeper goes to ground like that, he runs the risk that he must make contact with the ball to guarantee he won't give away a penalty."

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