Another game and another victory as Barnsley beat Millwall at Oakwell Stadium

Valerien Ismael’s Barnsley retained their excellent run of form by defeating Millwall on Saturday, to make it five consecutive victories for the Tykes.

Polish defender Michał Helik’s 59th-minute strike proved to be the match-winner, in what could prove to be a crucial three points for the South Yorkshire side.

Barnsley had the majority of the chances and ultimately did enough to see off the challenge of Gary Rowett’s visiting Millwall, to boost their Play-Off chances.

Here are some reflections Barnsley can take out of their victory today.

Collins is the undisputed number 1

Valerien Ismael faces a clear goalkeeping dilemma at Barnsley, it’s clear however that this is now solved and Brad Collins is the undisputed first choice for the Reds.

Since being handed his chance in the starting line-up Barnsley have gone on a terrific run of form, and his performances in goal have been instrumental to this. He has developed an excellent understanding with the backline in front of him.

With Ismael seemingly decided on Collins, the former Chelsea goalkeeper must ensure he retains his current level of performances if a spot in the Play-Offs is to be an achievable outcome for Barnsley.

Woodrow ends his drought

Over the last handful of games, the goal scoring burden has been taken off Cauley Woodrow, with new attacking signings Carlton Morris and Daryl Dike both getting off the mark for the Tykes and adding firepower to the Reds’ frontline.

While this has benefited Barnsley as a whole, it made life a bit more challenging for the reliable striker who now has more competition in the attack. However, the 26-year-old put in a fine display to end what had proved to be an uncharacteristic goal drought that had spanned exactly a month.

Woodrow getting back amongst the goal is a good omen for Ismael and co, as a confident and forward is up there with the very best strikers the Championship has to offer.

Callum Brittain’s consistency shines through once more

Another pleasing aspect of the game for Barnsley was the consistent showing from former MK Dons man Callum Brittain.

The versatile 22-year-old has been vital for the Tykes so far this campaign and has been putting in some mightily impressive displays on the right flank for the South Yorkshire side.

Strong in both attack and defence the performances of Brittain continue to surpass expectations, and it’s clear that his addition last summer was a real coup from Barnsley and yet another tip of the hat is justified to the Reds’ transfer committee.

It seems quite incredible to think that Barnsley only retained their Championship status on the very last day of the previous season producing a miraculous escape in the process, as the Tykes are now competing right at the other end of the Championship table.

Their transition has been nothing short of mind-blowing, and under the tutelage of Valerien Ismael, they’re a team that fears no one. While there are still 14 games left for Barnsley this season, if they can keep their foot on the accelerator a spot in the Play-Offs could be achievable for the Tykes.