Bradford City ratings: Rory McArdle gives Bantams slender advantage over Fleetwood Town

Rory McArdle starts the celebrations after firing Bradford into the lead

Colin Doyle – Made a poor clearance in the first half which David Ball almost capitalised on but was otherwise untroubled. 7

Tony McMahon – Made his impression on the night inside 60 seconds with a thunderous challenge and was a steady presence getting forward on his right side. Showed why he has been such an important player this campaign, getting forward and sticking challenges in. Created the goal, too. 8

Rory McArdle – A bullet header at the near post from McMahon's corner gave Bradford the advantage and he won't forget it in a hurry. Didn't have an awful lot to deal with in the first half despite two scares. Very solid. 8

Josh Cullen breezes past the attentions of his marker in what was an enterprising display from the midfielder

Nathaniel Knight-Percival – Like McArdle, there wasn't too much to do defensively and snuffed out the threat of one of the league's best strikeforces. 7

James Meredith – Headed a Mark Marshall cross over in the first half and was industrious down the left-hand side. His defensive capabilities were rarely tested and thus had freedom to roam forward. 7

Josh Cullen – Played with skill and guile in the centre of Bradford's midfield, including a mazy run in the first half. An energetic performance. 8

Romain Vincelot – Blazed a glorious chance over the bar 10 minutes into the second period and wasn't the most influential in the first period. 6

Mark Marshall – In and out of the game throughout. Made a couple of basic crosses into the box but will have been disappointed not to contribute more. 6

Billy Clarke – Showed confidence to shoot from outside the box and almost got his reward when striking the base of the post in the first half. Made way for Hiwula on 70 minutes. 7

Nicky Law – Found plenty of space in the middle of the park in the first period alongside Cullen but was off colour with his shooting. Not at his best but still made his impression on the game. 6

Charlie Wyke – The targetman occupied the Fleetwood defence without causing too much alarm. Found the Fleetwood keeper with his best chance in the first half. 6

Subs:

Jordi Hiwula (on for Clarke 70') – Almost made his mark two minutes after coming on but miscued a left-footed shot. Gave Bradford a second wind.

Timothee Dieng (on for Law, 87) – Not enough time to get involved.