PUSH US INTO THE LAST FOUR – PARKY
PHIL Parkinson is urging Bradford City fans to rediscover the spirit of Stamford Bridge and cheer the Bantams on to victory against Reading tomorrow night, just as they did against the Premier League leaders in the fourth round.
Six thousand travelling supporters watched Bradford eliminate Jose Mourinho’s team from the FA Cup on that January day that will live long in the memory.
And Parkinson knows his League Two side will need similar support if they are to beat Reading in their quarter-final replay at the Madejski Stadium.
The two sides fought out a goalless draw at Valley Parade but now face the difficult task of playing this fixture just two days after their respective league games.
Although it will be a sentimental trip for Parkinson, who spent 11 years with the Royals as a player, the 47year-old is desperate to secure that all-important win which will send his side to Wembley to face FA Cup holders Arsenal in the semi-finals.
And the Bradford boss believes a full away end could prove the difference in making it a historic night for the club.
“Reading are going to be cranking up the atmosphere. Everyone is telling me that they are trying to reinvent a club anthem,” he said.
“But what a difference a full away end can make, we’ve had it so many times.
“Chelsea was something very special with that wall of noise supporting the team.”