Paul Jewell has praised teenage defender Andy O'Brien for his part in ensuring Bradford City ended the year on a high note.

Yesterday's 2-0 win over Tranmere means City have taken 13 points from their last five games to climb to fourth.

And City's improved defensive record - which has seen them concede just two goals in that time - has been crucial to their success. It has corresponded with O'Brien's return to the side.

Jewell is delighted with that record and praised the efforts of his whole side before adding: "I thought Andy O'Brien had a fine game for us. I was very pleased for him because he never put a foot wrong and got in some vital tackles when we needed them most. He went through a rocky patch earlier in the season but in the last four or five games he has been excellent.

"In fact, since the papers said we were looking for another centre half he has responded magnificently."

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