Barnsley would push Bolton Wanderers very close in the second leg of their play-off semi-final and although they’d win 3-2 away, would ultimately fall just short on aggregate, losing 5-4.
It was a much improved performance from the Tykes, especially in the second half. They were playing with confidence that we’ve not really seen in recent weeks and almost looked back at their best.
Despite falling just short, positives can be taken from the performance and they’ll no doubt be one of the teams challenging towards the top of the League One table next season. That is if they can recruit the right manager to lead them forward in their quest for Championship football.
The Tykes went into the play-offs without a manager having sacked Neill Collins two weeks prior. It was a decision which surprised many given its proximity to the post-season but with the club picking up just two wins from their final 11 games under Collins, there was some reasoning behind it.
Martin Devaney would take over the reigns for the play-offs and although falling short over two legs, can take pride in the job he did. The 43-year-old spent would make over 175 appearances during a six-year stint with the club as a player and obviously knows what it means to the fans.
There were questions as to whether the former player would be in the running for the position, however in an interview with Sky Sports, Devaney ruled himself out of the job.
“I don’t want it.
“I have enjoyed it over the last two weeks, I am sure the club will make a decision in the next few weeks. It is down to the board, they will make the right decision at the right time. I have had clear communication and I am sure in time, we will find out what is going on.
“(The fans) have just got to stick with us – stick with the players and the club. Someone will come in in the summer and we will be nice and positive, we will try to get promotion next year.”
The next decision is certainly an important one for the Tykes, who will be looking to climb out of the third tier next year. They’ve now made the play-offs in consecutive years, yet haven’t been able to end their two-year stint in the league.
Making the right managerial decision could well turn their fortunes and fans will be hoping to gain promotion next season, potentially targeting the automatic spots.
Writer’s View
Devaney did a great job of managing the squad last night and they were somewhat unlucky to fall just short. It at least offers some positives going into next season, although there will be plenty of change over the summer.
It’s maybe not the most attractive job currently, but there’s certainly talent in the squad to go forward with. Having spent the last two seasons now in League One, next year is an important year for the club, who will want to get back to the Championship where some fans will arguably say they belong.
Senior Editor
