'We've shown we can play against the top teams' - Sykes

Mark Sykes scored his second goal of the season for Bristol City against Sheffield United

Bristol City have proved they can match the very top teams in the Championship, says midfielder Mark Sykes.

The Republic of Ireland international came off the bench to score a last-minute equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Sheffield United, the new leaders, on Tuesday.

"I watched the game in the first half and thought we were the better team and it felt like that when I was on the pitch and it was getting the message to the lads the game was there for the taking," Sykes told BBC Radio Bristol.

"We've played Sheffield United a few times and it's felt like we've been the better team and not got anything from the games."

The draw moves the Robins to within two points of the play-off places with nine games remaining.

"We've got to move on quickly with another game in a few days at Ashton Gate and hopefully we can get another good result," added Sykes.

"We know as a group we can play against these teams and I feel we've shown we were much the better side and hopefully we can show that for the rest of the season."

Bristol City host Norwich City on Friday, when a win would take them into the top six ahead of the weekend's other games.