As Bradford City’s team of heroes prepares for the game of their lives tonight, one thing can be said with absolute certainty: Phil Parkinson and his players have done the club, its supporters, and indeed the whole district, proud.
To say the result doesn’t matter would be glib and patronising, but a valiant defeat would certainly not detract in any way from the incredible performances that mean the Bantams are just one game away from Wembley glory.
And outside of Birmingham, it is fair to say the whole footballing world will be willing City on in their unlikely bid to hold on to their 3-1 lead from the first leg, and reach the Capital One Cup final.
That dream is now within touching distance, and it would be a fitting reward for the stupendous performances of the players, manager Parkinson and his coaching team, the club itself, and, in particular, the incredible supporters.
The victories against Premier League sides Wigan and Arsenal that got City here have brought a real feelgood factor back to not just sport, but to the district as a whole.
Imagine the impact getting to the final tonight could have in terms of the city’s profile.
But whatever the outcome, this is a team that deserves every plaudit coming to them, who have shown themselves capable of going toe-to-toe with members of the footballing elite.
Their victories haven’t been lucky; they have been hard-fought and fully deserved. This is a side that can go places under their young and highly-prized manager.
Dare we dream of Wembley? Yes, absolutely; if City play as well as they have in previous games, they have little to fear.
But win or lose, this is a team that deserves a heroes’ welcome. Councillors, take note!
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