Bradford City secured a coveted place in the League One play‑offs after a solid 2‑1 victory over Exeter City, a result that simultaneously condemned the Grecians to relegation to League Two. The win, earned through goals from Kayden Jackson and Antoni Sarcevic, not only handed the Bantams a spot in the post‑season but also set up a two‑legged semi‑final showdown with Bolton Wanderers. The match began with Bradford imposing themselves on Exeter from the first whistle. The Bantams generated a series of promising chances, probing the Exeter defence with quick passes and incisive movement.
Their persistence paid off in the 27th minute when Kayden Jackson, celebrating his 450th appearance for the club, found space inside the box after a clever through ball from midfield partner George Lapslie. Jackson calmly rolled the ball past goalkeeper Jack Bycroft from about 18 yards out, giving Bradford an early lead and putting Exeter on the back foot. Exeter attempted to respond but struggled to find rhythm.
Their first‑half performance was hampered by nervousness and a lack of cohesion, as later admitted by manager Matt Taylor. The Grecians were unable to string together more than a couple of passes at a time and failed to create any clear-cut opportunities. The half‑hour mark saw them missing a potential set‑piece, and the overall pressure of the situation seemed to weigh heavily on the players.
The second half began with Exeter making a double substitution in an effort to change the tempo. The changes brought a brief spark; Carlos Mendes Gomes unleashed a powerful shot that forced Bradford keeper Sam Walker into a reflex save. However, the Grecians could not convert their improved possession into a goal.
In the 80th minute, a mis‑timed back‑header from Exeter defender Jack McMillan fell short, allowing Sarcevic to tap the ball beyond the Exeter goalkeeper and double Bradford's advantage. Bradford’s confidence grew as the clock ticked down, and they managed the game effectively, limiting Exeter’s chances. In stoppage time, Exeter managed a consolation goal when Josh Magennis flicked the ball into the net from a corner taken by Ryan Rydel. The late strike offered a brief glimmer of hope for the home side, but it was insufficient to alter the outcome.
The final whistle confirmed Exeter's relegation after four seasons in the third tier, a disappointing end to a campaign that had hinged on a win in this decisive fixture. Bradford’s manager praised his side’s composure and highlighted the importance of experience in such high‑stakes matches.
"Our players showed the quality and mental strength needed to secure the win," he said. "We knew a victory would put us into the play‑offs, and the lads delivered when it mattered most." Exeter boss Matt Taylor reflected on the defeat, acknowledging the gulf in experience and execution between the two teams.
"It was not the result we wanted and not the performance either. We were short today – and well short," he admitted. Taylor noted that Exeter’s first half was particularly poor, citing a lack of passing flow, ineffective set‑pieces, and an inability to press the opposition. He added that the pressure of the situation seemed to overwhelm the squad, leading to mistakes that proved costly.
Looking ahead, Bradford will travel to Bolton for the first leg of the semi‑final on Saturday, May 9, at 8 p.m. The second leg is scheduled for Thursday, May 14, at 8 p.m., with the winner advancing to the final at Wembley on May 24.
Meanwhile, Exeter will regroup in League Two, aiming to rebuild under Taylor’s guidance and aim for a swift return to the third tier. For fans wanting to follow the play‑off drama, the matches will be broadcast on Sky Sports, with the option to stream via the Sky Sports app. Those without a Sky subscription can still gain instant access through a no‑contract service, ensuring all supporters can keep up with the excitement. Additional play‑off fixtures include Stevenage versus Stockport on Saturday, May 9, at 3 p.m., with the second leg taking place on Wednesday, May 13, at 8 p.m.
The ultimate prize—a £250,000 reward from the Super 6 competition—remains up for grabs, and entry is free until the deadline of 3 p.m. on Saturday.
In summary, Bradford’s 2‑1 triumph over Exeter not only secured their play‑off berth but also marked the end of Exeter’s stint in League One. The Bantams now turn their focus to the upcoming semi‑final against Bolton, while Exeter must accept relegation and begin planning for a new campaign in League Two.