Bury boss Andy Welsh says it was special to welcome fans back to Gigg Lane against Bradford.

It was the Shakers’ first game there since May 2019 and the past few years haven’t been easy for supporters.

Bradford ran out 6-0 winners on the day after goals from Alex Pattison, Andy Cook, Emmanuel Osadebe, Liam Ridehalgh, Matt Derbyshire and Jamie Walker.

Welsh felt it was a good experience for his side and hailed the volunteers off the pitch who helped make the occasion possible.

“Today was always going to be about a celebration of opening the gates back up at Gigg Lane,” the manager explained.

“We knew it was going to be a tough test against Bradford - they only just missed out on getting promoted to League One.

“But it wasn’t just about the team on the pitch, it was also about the team off the pitch running the day. It just ran like a normal league game which was outstanding from them, so a big shout out to all the volunteers.

“What we wanted to get out of it was the old cliché, minutes under our belts. We got that and yes, there are certain elements of the game where we need to improve. There were certain elements that showed the level we are at and the level Bradford are at.

“But we know where we want to be this season and we will hopefully be the ones doing what Bradford did today – being ruthless and looking after the ball.

“I thought the lads showed composure on the ball and looked to play when they could. Sometimes we overplayed and got caught for a couple of the goals, but that is probably the sharpness and the levels of Bradford.”

Welsh’s side are back at Gigg Lane tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon when they host Championship outfit Preston North End. Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm.