BRADFORD battled with 10 men for nearly and hour to secure a hard-earned point against high-flying Southend.

Donovan Ricketts was given his marching orders after 34 minutes after showing his fist to Shrimpers fans, but the Bantams turned in a backs to the wall performance to deny Southend hopes of a first win in five matches.

Bradford took the lead after 33 minutes when Dean Windass' lay-off set up Steven Schumacher to rifle a 30-yard shot low into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.

But then the visitors were reduced to 10 men when referee Paul Armstrong showed Ricketts a red card a minute later for inciting the Southend fans in the South Stand following the goal.

It was later alleged the Jamaican international goalkeeper was the target of racist abuse.

Things got worse for Bradford as manager Colin Todd was also banished to the stands following an exchange with fourth official Simon Beck.

Windass took over between the sticks and was lucky not to be penalised for fouling Shrimpers striker Freddy Eastwood as he burst into the box on the stroke of half time.

But he was beaten in first half injury time by Mark Gower's free-kick to the top right-hand corner off the goal.

Bradford defended in numbers to deny Southend many chances at goal.

And when Gower and substitute James Lawson did manage to get headers on target they found the veteran striker well placed to save their efforts.