James Tilley’s decisive first-half header inspired AFC Wimbledon to a 1-0 win over promotion rivals Bradford at the Cherry Red Records Stadium.

Matty Stevens had a great chance to open the scoring in the 12th minute after being found in space in the box, but his effort did not have the power to beat Bradford goalkeeper Sam Walker.

It was 1-0 just one minute later though when Tilley headed Jake Reeves’ delightful delivery in at the far post.

The ball dropped kindly to Antoni Sarcevic as the visitors went on the hunt for an equaliser, but he drilled his shot wide.

Owen Goodman produced a stunning save to deny Alex Pattison after he had been put through on goal in the 44th minute.

Tyreik Wright came on at half-time and almost scored within seconds of the kick-off after being picked out on the edge of the six-yard box.

However, his toe poke was cleared off the line at the last second by Ryan Johnson.

Omar Bugiel’s heroic block with 20 minutes remaining denied Michael Mellon a shot at goal from point-blank range and ensured all three points remained in South London.