Barnsley seek fifth successive triumph in their unlikely bid for a playoff spot

Every year in the Sky Bet Championship, a surprise contender is thrown into the promotion race; this year is no different as Barnsley sit just one point off the top six.

 The Tykes executed what was no less than a miracle at the end of last season. Two wins were required from their final two outings if they were to maintain their Championship status.

Last minute winners against both Nottingham Forest and Brentford ensured the South Yorkshire side remained in the second tier by the skin of their teeth.

This campaign looked to be heading in a similar direction after their disappointing start was topped off by the departure of head coach Gerhard Struber, who left his role for a new challenge with New York Red Bulls.

Following much deliberation, the Reds appointed former LASK boss Valerian Ishmael to try and stabilise the club and establish them as a secure Championship side, capable of challenging with anybody.

The Frenchman won four of his opening five games at the helm in S71 and has exceeded the expectations of most, if not all, Tykes fans.

Barnsley find themselves just a solitary point off the elusive playoff positions with a game in hand – a position fans couldn’t even dream of 12 months ago.

Ishmael’s side must overcome yet another tough challenge this weekend if they are to make it five wins on the bounce, as Gary Rowett’s regimented Millwall team visit Oakwell. The Lions are unbeaten in their last nine league games; however, that run has been littered with stalemates (5).

Saturday’s encounter will be the host’s second home tie of the week after they breezed past an inept Stoke City.

The Colliers took the lead within the opening ten minutes following a beautiful long-range effort from Callum Styles who curled the ball past Angus Gunn from 25 yards.

They then secured the three points in stoppage time with Daryl Dike slotting home from close range.

In the reverse fixture in October, Alex Mowatt’s late first half strike was immediately cancelled out by commanding centre half Jake Cooper as the points were distributed evenly.

With some of the teams above them stagnating in recent weeks, Barnsley will be hoping to improve upon October’s result and penetrate the top six against Millwall. This will firmly prove that they are capable of mounting a surprise playoff push after being on the brink of relegation last term.

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