Substitute Luke Jephcott salvaged a 1-1 draw in stoppage time after Tyreik Wright had given the Bantams the lead with his third goal of the season. But the visitors fought back with a strong second half and on-loan Plymouth striker Jephcott equalised from the rebound after his initial penalty had been saved by Harry Lewis.

Simpson punished defender Brad Halliday for handling Ellis Iandolo’s cross but Hughes felt it was a poor decision from the man in the middle.

Hughes said: “I don’t think it’s a penalty. It’s hit Brad high up on the arm and his arm’s not away from his body. It’s not a handball. The referee can’t see it either, he’s about 20 yards away with three or four people between him and Brad.

BRADFORD, ENGLAND - AUGUST 23: Mark Hughes, Manager of Bradford City looks on prior to the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Bradford City and Blackburn Rovers at University of Bradford Stadium on August 23, 2022 in Bradford, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

“There’s no way he can make a definite decision. He’s basically reacted to the Swindon fans and the players around him. He needs to be stronger and just referee what he’s actually seen.

“They were able to shout more in hope than real confidence that it was going to be given. They’ve got lucky and the referee’s bought that. It’s really disappointing because the manner of our performance was really good.”

'The referee can’t see it' - Mark Hughes annoyed by penalty decision in Bradford City's draw with Swindon Town