Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson attempted to keep a lid on emotions after their Capital One Cup first-leg semifinal win over Aston Villa.

Parkinson's npower League Two side performed more cup heroics in front of another full house to claim a third win against Barclays Premier League opposition in the competition and give themselves a real chance of fulfilling a sensational Wembley dream.

Parkinson refused to be swept away by the occasion, saying: "It was important we got the message across to the lads at the end of the game and equally be respectful to Villa because in two weeks' time we've got to go down to Villa Park and do it all again.

"We're absolutely delighted with the way we played, obviously, because from the first minute to the last the lads were tremendous tonight. But equally we know we're only halfway there, we've got a very difficult job in a fortnight's time."

Bradford sent Wigan packing in the fourth round and claimed a famous penalty shootout win over Arsenal in front of a sold-out Valley Parade the quarter-finals, but this was their best yet according to their manager.

Parkinson added: "Against Arsenal it was a great night for us but I think the all-round performance tonight (was better), because Villa played a very attacking team and we had to defend well and equally they left a lot of space on the pitch for us to play.

"Our quality players had to stay composed on the ball and they certainly did that."