Rovers took an early lead when Luke Molyneux applied a bullet header to Jordan Gibson's clipped cross into the box after he'd initially been stopped in his tracks by a precise Aden Baldwin tackle.
Antoni Sarcevic then dragged a shot wide as Bradford launched an immediate response. And it wasn't long before they were indeed level: Bobby Pointon's centre was spilled by Thimothee Lo-Tutala right into the path of Will Swan who couldn't miss from a yard or so out.
It was becoming a frantic affair and not long after Rovers got back in the lead with ex-Bradford man Gibson at the heart of it. He pounced on Joe Wright's loose, attempted clearance and drove towards goal before firing into the bottom-right corner. He'll have enjoyed that one given the stick he regularly gets from Bradford fans after his brief spell there - and he duly celebrated in front of the packed away end.
It then got even better just before the break when Rovers jumped into a 3-1 lead. Billy Sharp, who'd been in outstanding form and was absolutely everywhere in the first half, applied a superb, curled finish and followed Gibson's lead in lapping it up.
The visitors made two subs at half-time and they came out with more purpose. But for all their possession they failed to test Lo-Tutala's goal whatsoever. Chances for Rovers to extend their lead were few and far between with Harry Clifton just shooting over during a rare breakaway, as the hosts mostly soaked up the Bantams' pressure and broke when they could.
In the end it was a comfortable victory as Grant McCann's win moved on to 16 points, level with leaders Cardiff City.
13. Damola Ajayi 6
Spurs loanee offered bright glimpses in his cameo. Photo: Howard Roe/AHPIX LTD
15. Toyosi Olusanya 5
New man might take a while to get to grips with things, but a few dangerous runs here and shows of strength. Photo: Howard Roe/ahpix.com
