Bradford City boss Graham Alexander on Colchester United win

Two goals apiece for Calum Kavanagh and George Lapslie secured the promotion-chasing hosts a big victory, in front of a crowd of more than 23,000 at Valley Parade.

Bradford’s win came after back-to-back defeats and leaves them a point off League Two leaders Walsall, with eight games remaining.

Alexander said: “They were two big performances and big wins against really good teams who have come here on the back of fantastic runs.

“I just felt this was probably better because of our previous two results. There was a bit more pressure on and the expectant crowd.

“Then you concede against the run of play to go 1-1 and a little knock-back like that probably takes that performance over Walsall. Although it is hard to differentiate as they were both top performances and highlighted the quality we have.

“I thought we were absolutely relentless.

“We conceded but just got on with it and did not feel sorry for ourselves and panic.

“We played some brilliant football and pressed Colchester all the time. We were so trusting of each other and committed to our game – we were us and didn’t try to change anything after the previous two results.

“It was great to watch and be a part of. I was extremely proud of the squad today.”

Colchester have travelled to Bradford on the back of a 13-match unbeaten run and five-game winning streak.

But they had no answer to the Bantams’ relentless attacking play, on the day.

“Colchester came here with their tails up,” added former MK Dons and Salford City boss Alexander.

“They are a good team and have just got into the play-offs so were in confident mood.

“Why wouldn’t they try and come here and win? But I thought we played well last week without a real cutting edge – but today we had that and could have scored a couple more.

“It was an occasion because we knew there was going to be a record crowd. We knew they would be an expectant crowd – but I think they’ll be a happy one after that.”