GARY Bowyer cursed the “sucker punch” that cost City in their 1-1 draw at Macclesfield.

The Bantams missed the chance to go fourth after coming from behind to get a point.

Macclesfield struck totally against the run of play to lead on 32 minutes with a Jak McCourt penalty. Bowyer was unhappy with Ben Richards-Everton for his mistimed lunge on Corey O’Keeffe in the box.

He said: “First half we were on the front foot and positive. We had a good number of chances that we failed to capitalise on in front of another wonderful travelling support.

“Then we gave away the sucker punch of a penalty for a ridiculous challenge. Managers have to come and front it but you can’t legislate for that sort of decision.

“It was the first time they had been in our penalty area.

“We found ourselves 1-0 down, which was disappointing, but we huffed and puffed and showed the fight we’ve got.”

James Vaughan made up for a huge miss earlier on by heading the equaliser from Harry Pritchard’s free-kick.

Bowyer added: “It was a wonderful goal to get back into it from Vaughany. It was a great free-kick.

“We spoke about the areas to hit for him and fortunately the practice paid off.

“It’s the sign of a good striker is that when they miss they don’t let it affect them. Vaughany kept going and got the next one.”

Jake Reeves and Chris Taylor both got their chance in midfield and Bowyer was impressed with the duo.

“I thought the pair of them was magnificent. Jake Reeves was the best player on the pitch and rightly deserved the applause he received.

“Chris Taylor has had a real rollercoaster time considering that’s his first league game but I thought he really applied himself well.

“They both bring their experience, know how of the game and their voices. They manage the game for you out on the pitch.”

Callum Cooke was ruled out after a whack he suffered early on against Plymouth failed to calm down. He could also be doubtful for next week’s home clash with Newport.