Nardiello shines in Barnsley victory

Last updated : 27 January 2004 By Mad Tyke

The appearance of Man Utd youngster Daniel Nardiello who only arrived at Oakwell at 4pm this afternoon was just one surprise in the Reds starting line-up tonight. Dean Gorre also returned from a serious knee injury after just a few days training while Antony Kay played right back leaving him only to play in goal to complete a full set of positions this season. New keeper Marlon 'nickname dingle?' Beresford was left on the bench leaving Tony Caig in goal. Garry Monk played alongside the equally pacey Lee Crooks in midfield.

For Blackpool, former Reds Mike Sheron, Martin Bullock and Mike Flynn all started.

The Reds started the game with purpose and Nardiello looked pacey alongside the hard working Mark Stallard making his home debut. Gudjon's most attacking line-up in ages got its reward after just 11 minutes when Neil Austin's excellent pull back was crashed home by Nardiello from around six yards.

Rather than capitalise on the fine start, the Reds allowed Blackpool to then dominate the midfield with slick if usually ineffectual passing with some neat runs from Bullock causing the odd problem. Sheron and Taylor looked dangerous despite not causing Caig to make a save of note as the Reds defence held solid. As for the Reds, Gorre showed flashes of what we've been missing despite his lack of match fitness and Stallard held the ball up well.

Half-time saw Gorre replaced by Lumsdon on the left of midfield and the Reds soon added their second goal after Nardiello nicked the ball from Flynn on the half way line. The youngster showed skill and awareness as he unselfishly slipped the ball to Stallard to knock into an empty goal.

A Sheron lob from the edge of the area almost dipped in as Blackpool's play became more desperate but Nardiello's second goal of the game just after the hour mark ended the game as a contest.

Handyside's free kick didn't look too dangerous but the Blackpool defence again appeared slow to react as Nardiello swiftly rounded the keeper finishing well from a tight angle.

The rest of the game was a fairly quiet affair, Burns came on for Man of the Match and instant Oakwell hero Daniel Nardiello and O'Callaghan replaced a tired looking Crooks.

So a much needed result, back up to fourth and the scoreline and new signings should ensure a better crowd for the next home game and boost confidence going into the Notts County match.