Bradford strengthen play-off spot to push Northampton closer to the drop

Bradford solidified their position in the play-offs with a 1-0 win over relegation-battling Northampton at Valley Parade.

Stephen Humphrys headed the only goal for the fourth-placed Bantams to inflict a fifth straight defeat on the Cobblers, who remain second from bottom.

Northampton offered a couple of early threats with Sam Hoskins’ volley blocked and Cameron McGeehan denied from close range.

But it was Bradford who took the lead after 14 minutes. Bobby Pointon kept the ball in play on the byline and his cross to the back post was headed home by Humphrys.

The Cobblers responded to that blow with defender Elliott Moore firing wide and Dean Campbell curling a shot just over the bar.

Bradford captain Max Power then tested Lee Burge from 30 yards before Jenson Metcalfe’s first-time attempt was deflected narrowly wide.

Pointon had a good chance to make it two early in the second half but headed Ibou Touray’s cross over the bar from six yards.

Campbell almost made Bradford pay when he clipped the bar but Northampton are now 11 points from safety.