VALE IN PATH OF EVATT'S BOYS

HOLDERS Bolton Wanderers will host Port Vale in the first knockout round of this season’s Bristol Street Motors Trophy.

- John Lyons

Ian Evatt’s men, who beat Plymouth 4-0 in last season’s final, were guaranteed a home draw by virtue of winning their group, but had to wait to find out which of four possible runners-up they would face in the round of 32.

They were drawn against fellow League One side Vale, who have already shown their cup pedigree by reaching the Carabao Cup quarter-finals this term.

In the southern section, third tier pacesetters Portsmouth have been handed a home tie against League Two AFC Wimbledon.

The draw came following the final round of group stage matches in midweek.

Graham Alexander earned his first win as Bradford manager with a thumping 5-1 home success against Barnsley. In a meeting to decide top spot in Northern Group F, the Bantams stormed to victory with goals from Matty Platt (2 minutes), Andy Cook (17), Tyler Smith (35), Lewis Richards (63) and Clarke Oduor (66).

Barry Cotter (77) pulled one back for the Tykes, whose miserable night was made complete when Jack Shepherd was sent off in injury time. They qualified for the knockout stages alongside Bradford.