Reflections from Barnsley’s victory over AFC Bournemouth as the Tykes further play-off ambitions

Barnsley FC took a huge win in the race for the play-offs on Saturday, with a salient victory over AFC Bouremouth at Dean Court.

The Tykes went into the game at the weekend one place and two points ahead of their opponents and the victory away at Bouremouth strengthens their hopes for the playoffs significantly.

Here are some reflections that Barnsley fans can take out of their team’s victory at the south coast.

Their play-off chances are in their own hands

Barnsley have been the in-form team in the Championship since the start of the new year and are currently embarking on a remarkable unbeaten run that has now stretched to eleven games, and seen them climb into the play-off places.

Travelling to the south coast Barnsley once again refused to be outclassed and showed their grit and determination on their way to a victory that has significant connotations for both them and AFC Bournemouth.

In fact, the victory now opens up a five-point gap between the Reds, who occupy the last spot in the play-off places, and Bouremouth who sit seventh in the table. With only ten games to go between now and the end of the season, Barnsley’s victory over one of their rivals in the chase for the top six has put the opportunity very much in their own hands.

Austrian star shines brightly for the Tykes

Amongst the standout performers for Barnsley in their victory on the south coast was Austrian winger Dominik Frieser, who put in a performance of the highest order.

The former LASK Linz winger caused the Bournemouth defence all sorts of problems on the day and his 60th-minute striker levelled proceedings at the Vitality Stadium.

The signing of the 27-year-old, who was apart of the LASK Linz side that faced Manchester United in the Europa League last season was a real coup for Barnsley, and he proved his worth on his return to the starting eleven with an impressive display on Saturday.

Super-sub Morris

A coach who is never afraid to make substitutions, Valerien Ismael made three changes at the half-time break with the Tykes losing 2-1.

All these changes had a significant impact on the second half of the game in Dorset, but none more so than former Norwich striker Carlton Morris, whose 80th-minute strike proved to be the matchwinner.

The Cambridge born attacker’s goal was his fifth of the season and may prove to be a crucial one for Barnsley as the 25-year-old once again revealed his goalscoring prowess off the bench.

Conclusion

To summarise, Barnsley’s victory at Bouremouth on Saturday was another vital one in their fight for the play-offs.

The Tykes are proving to be the surprise package this season and were worthy of their victory against Bournemouth which has seen them open up a five-point gap over the Cherries.

But with 10 games still to go between now and the end of the season it is critical that Barnsley keep their foot on the gas, with a trip to bottom of the table Wycombe Wanderers on the horizon midweek.