Boss looking to build...
WE GO into the game looking to follow-up from Tuesday's victory at Yeovil Town. I thought we bounced back well from our previous two defeats and could have been four or five goals to the good at half-time.We were excellent and played some good football. In fact, they had to change their formation to cope with us, which is a great compliment.
They got a bit of a lift as the second half went on and it became something of an end-to-end encounter where we had Richard O'Donnell to thank for some impressive saves.
It was important to show a positive reaction to the previous game; I asked for energy and ethusiasm and got it. To have 28 attempts on goal in an away game is fantastic.
It was pleasing that we had threats from all over the team and now we look to take that into Saturday's game at Barnsley.
It's a tough place to go, there is no question about that. They are a club that should be higher than where they currently are; they've got some good players and we know that if will be a difficult one for us.
They've won their last four games in a row, so they will be in high spirits, but we are ready for the challenge.
From our point of view it is about finding a level of consistency and following on from our last game. We've got good players here and they have to merit the shirt. We are trying to find that momentum that will see us kick-on up the table.
Anthony Forde and Jordan Cook are doubtful with groin problems and will be assessed in the build-up to the game. The good news is that Sam Mantom ha trained all week and had no adverse reaction to his knee problem. It's like having a new signing and we will look to give him some game time in the reserves.
It's nice to see a smile on his face and he is doing really well in training.
Thank you for you support at Yeovil. I will look forward to seeing you at Oakwell...
DEAN SMITH