Crystal Palace loan midfielder Scott Banks scored the opening goal of the game to give the Bantams the lead inside six minutes before David Ferguson grabbed Pools’ first goal at the Suit Direct Stadium this season.
Ferguson headed in Jake Hastie’s cross from the right to give Pools a foothold in the game.
But they were unable to kick on from there as Bradford regained control of the game 20 minutes into the second half when Andy Cook dispatched well from a low cross on the left.
And Cook sealed the points for Bradford in front of the away end in stoppage time when he cut inside onto his left foot to find the top corner.
The result leaves Pools without a win in their opening five League Two games this season.
And here is how Pools were rated in their defeat.
. Josh Umerah of Hartlepool United and Alex Gilliead of Bradford City during the Sky Bet League 2 match between Hartlepool United and Bradford City at Victoria Park, Hartlepool on Saturday 20th August 2022. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News)
Hartlepool United were beaten on home soil by Bradford City. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
. Ben Killip - 6
Excellent double save to deny Halliday and Gillead in the first half at 1-1. Well beaten three times. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid
. Jamie Sterry - 5
Did OK in spells but struggled with the introduction of Harratt. Good cross for Umerah for Pools’ penalty shout. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
1. Ben Killip - 6
Excellent double save to deny Halliday and Gillead in the first half at 1-1. Well beaten three times. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid
2. Jamie Sterry - 5
Did OK in spells but struggled with the introduction of Harratt. Good cross for Umerah for Pools’ penalty shout. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
3. Rollin Menayese - 6
Probably Pools’ best defender on the day. Did what he had to do but part of a side who conceded three. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
4. Alex Lacey - 4
Allowed Cook to get a run on him for both goals in the second half. Bit of a mix-up with Killip early in the second half which could have resulted in a goal, too. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher