Ahead of tomorrow’s game we contacted lifelong Barnsley fan Andy for his thoughts on the Tykes start to the season.
Name
Andy
Age
24
How long have you supported Barnsley?
Started properly going to a few games in 2002. We were relegated and nearly went out of business not long after.
What was your first game?
We beat Grimsby 2-0 back in 2000.
Following relegation last season how confident are you that you can bounce straight back?
Very. Without intentionally sounding arrogant, this squad is more than capable of challenging for the title.
Are you happy with the clubs transfer dealings this summer?
Overall yes, we’ve had a good window. Of the new signings Kenny Dougall is the standout – he’s far too good for us, but he’s with Australia so you won’t get to see him on Saturday. We’ve kept the majority of the squad together and added a few good players, with an eye for the future with a couple of them as well.
Who are your dangermen?
We have genuine quality all over the pitch and plenty of players to cause most teams problems. 6 goals makes big Kieffer Moore the standout danger, but Alex Mowatt in midfield will run the game if you let him. Brad Potts is key to our pressing game and will run for weeks, and George Moncur just drifts round the pitch like he’s in the park with his mates.
If you could take one Walsall player to be in the Barnsley team who would you pick?
I’ve always rated Zeli Ismail, so I’ll say him.
What type of Barnsley team can we expect on Saturday?
One that’s full of energy, confidence and desire to win. We’ve dominated every team that’s been to Oakwell this season, so I’d expect you’ll have to defend for sustained periods during the game.
What is your League 1 predictions for the season – top two, play offs and relegation.
I’ll go with us being top and Sunderland 2nd. Portsmouth, Peterborough, Doncaster and Luton in the play offs. I think Wycombe, Gillingham, Blackpool and Scunthorpe could be in trouble.
Finally what is your prediction for Saturdays game?
I expect you’ll give us a good game and you seem to have the pace to cause us problems, but I’ll go for 3-1 Barnsley.
