Michael Duff takes charge of Bradford City for the first time this weekend as his new side prepare to host Leyton Orient. The Bantams sit second in League One with 16 points from eight games and are unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions.
Duff was appointed after Graham Alexander, 48, left to become manager of Preston North End. The new boss watched from the is his team thrashed Rotherham United 4-0 in the EFL Trophy last week, a result that extended their impressive defensive record. Bradford have conceded just five goals this season, keeping five clean sheets.
Recent form and defensive strength
Bradford's recent results show a team in strong form. Their last five outings have yielded four wins and a draw, including three successive 1-0 victories earlier in the campaign. Stephen Humphrys was among the scorers in the 4-0 win at Rotherham, a performance Duff observed while serving a touchline suspension. The team's solid foundation has been key to their rise up the standings.
Leyton Orient's recent struggles
Visitors Leyton Orient arrive in mixed form, having lost their last two home games. They sit 11th in the table with 10 points from their eight matches. Manager Richie Wellens has seen his side score 13 goals this term, with forwards Jaze Kabia and Yusuf Akhamrich in scoring form. Orient did record a 5-0 win over Bromley and have claimed clean-sheet victories against Wigan and Bromley, but consistency has been elusive.
Recent history and the clash
Bradford have won the last two meetings between the sides. They secured a 3-1 victory at Brisbane Road in the League Cup just last month, having also won 2-1 at Valley Parade in a previous league encounter. This recent dominance provides a psychological boost ahead of Saturday's fixture.
Anthony Eadson is among those backing a home win, stating he "backs a clean-sheet home win." The match kicks off at 3pm on Saturday at Valley Parade. Bradford will look to start the Duff era with three points to maintain their push near the top of League One.
