Barnsley edge past Lincoln
Written by Mark Stokes on Wednesday 12th August 2009

The problem with playing lower league opposition is that if you don't roll them over something is wrong, if you lose something is wrong and if you just get past them, something is wrong!

In truth these fixtures are a real potential banana-skin for the bigger clubs. Just look at Ipswich Town who had to wait until a penalty shoot-out before getting past Shrewsbury, or Derby County who were knocked out by Rotherham and Sheffield United who were humbled by Port Vale.

Barnsley can take pleasure in navigating this hurdle and putting their hat into the second round where the likes of Tottenham Hotspurs await.

It was a brilliant strike from Daniel Bogdanovic that settled this match after having come on four minutes earlier.

Jacob Butterfield put in another excellent performance and looked at ease in the team. Having started against Bradford, Manchester and Sheffield Wednesday he is developing a real confidence in his ability and is able to express himself more and more.

Luke Potter had the job of filling the huge boots of Darren Moore and he had a great game and didn't put a foot wrong.

Where some may have been below par others were able to put in extra effort to ensure the victory. Luke Steele once again was in inspired mood pulling off several crucial saves and keeping a clean sheet. Any doubts that Heinz Muller's absence could spell trouble for Barnsley are well and truly put to one side.

Barnsley have now only lost two games in the last 21, including friendlies, just short of half a season. True, not all the opposition is at the highest standard, but it is confidence building and the last two performances have shown their ability to grind out a result. That will be a key attribute for a successful season.

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