Barnsley enjoy a day at the seaside

Last updated : 05 March 2003 By Mad Tyke

The much maligned Mike Sheron transformed into occassional alter-ego 'Sheeeeron' in a cold match at Blackpool last night. The experienced striker showed what he is capable of by superbly finishing what were barely half chances to give the Reds a much needed 3 points.

It could have been very different if John Murphy hadn't missed a glorious chance for the Tangerines after just 2 minutes. Ex-tyke favourite Martin Bullock produced a great run and cross from the right to give Murphy a chance from just 10 yards and when Andy Marriott's excellent block landed at his feet, the big striker somehow failed to knock the ball into an empty net.

The pattern of the game was soon set by Blackpool's neat passing game and Bullock's mazy runs which were a constant threat to the Reds defence. Although Barnsley had less possession, Sheron and Dyer both looked sharp up front and Jones did his best to support the counter attacks.

The only change from the Reds draw with Plymouth was the return of David Mulligan at left wing back in the place of Robbie Williams. Mulligan was given a torrid time by Bullock and his sliced clearances were causing the most concern to an otherwise solid looking Reds defence.

Barnsley broke the deadlock just before half-time when Sheron cut inside from the left to fire into the bottom corner of the Tangerines net. It was a great finish which was celebrated by a vocal and it must be said very drunk set of Reds supporters.

Predictably, Blackpool came out full of energy after half-time and it took them just 10 minutes to get the equaliser they deserved. Pegged back in our own half and despite numerous chances to clear and relieve the pressure Murphy notched after Chris Morgan allowed him the space to produce a decent finish.

Barnsley now looked deep in trouble and there looked to be only one winner until Sheron again produced a moment of magic turning on a sixpence and smashing the ball into the bottom corner just after the hour mark.

Blackpool now looked stunned and in the final half hour of the game, the Reds continued to produce the more clear cut chances despite the home sides superior possession.

Betsy replaced an out of sorts Dyer up front while Gibbs came on for the disappointing Mulligan in the final 20 minutes. A Sheron hat-trick was denied by a clearance off the line near the end while the Reds survived the usual 6 (yes 6!) agonising minutes of injury time.

So a great result and team performance basically - Sheron MOTM followed by Kay and Marriott. The defence generally was solid and the midfield hard working if unspectacular.

Hovever, I'm still not convinced Mulligan can play on the left, Donovan can play wing back or the Sheron/Dyer combination works well. The team seem to play better against the better and less physical sides and it will be interesting to see how the team fare against Stockport on Saturday.