Barnsley hit back to sink Bradford

Marley Watkins cancelled out Billy Knott's opener before Alfie Mawson's second goal in as many games secured safe passage in the second period.

Greg Leigh fired over early on for the hosts in a scrappy start to the game.

But it came alive in the 22nd minute when Knott opened his account for the campaign. Mark Marshall's cross fell to Knott on the edge of the area and, after his first effort was blocked, his second arrowed into the bottom corner of Adam Davies' goal.

Marshall's long-range effort was comfortable held by Davies soon after, while Nathan Clarke fired over from the edge of the area.

But Barnsley hit back in the 45th minute when Watkins glanced in Conor Hourihane's free-kick.

The visitors' Sam Winnall saw an effort cleared off the line by Tony McMahon while Luke James forced a save out of Davies at the other end.

Mawson put Barnsley ahead with 21 minutes left as he headed in another of Hourihane's dangerous deliveries.

Davies had to make a further save from Marshall but Bradford failed to create a clear-cut opportunity as their trophy challenge was ended.