Wells nets penalty but Bradford trail in play-offs

BRADFORD, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Calvin Zola of Burton Albion celebrates his goal during the npower League Two playoff semi-final first leg between between Bradford City and Burton Albion

London, May 4 (IANS/CMC): Bermudian striker Nahki Wells grabbed his 23rd goal of the season but Bradford City’s hopes of reaching a second Wembley final this season suffered a blow when they were beaten 2-3 at home by visitors Burton Albion in the first leg of their English League Two play-off fixture.

Calvin Zola’s twin strike – a powerful header and a stunning angled drive – in the first 28 minutes put Burton on top Friday, reports CMC.

The 22-year-old Wells struck a 38th minute penalty after Damien McCrory handled to cut the deficit but Burton doubled their advantage through Robbie Weir with a near-post drive just before half-time.

Garry Thompson reduced the lead again with a 74th minute goal but Bradford still face an uphill fight when they travel to Burton for Sunday?s second leg.

In the night’s other match, Roy O’Donovan’s 26th goal gave Northampton Town a 1-0 win over visitors Cheltenham Town.

Bradford reached the League Cup final earlier in the season after a storming run saw them claim three Premier League scalps – Wigan Athletic, Aston Villa and Arsenal – but they were overwhelmed 0-5 by a fourth top-flight club, Swansea City, in the big game.