The match finished 5-3 to the away side after extra-time, and Johnson stated how proud he was of his team. “I am always proud of my players when we go for it, show no fear and we’re bold. I’m so proud of them tonight, they’ve showed what they can do. We need to use this as a catalyst to kick us on.”
The Reds Head Coach described tonight’s performance as being part of the culture he is instilling in the players. Even with Everton leading 5-3 in Extra Time, the Reds kept pressing.
“Whatever the score we keep going," he continued. "That’s what I’m trying to create at the Club. We got exposed to their quality, not our poor play. I’m so proud of the players and everyone associated with Barnsley Football Club today.”
Having lead the match by two goals at half time, Johnson was understandably disappointed not to win the match but he did not let that overshadow what was a spirited performance.
“I am disappointed not to finish the tie winning given the position we were in, but the subs they made had a huge effect," he added. "I asked the players to enhance our reputation and everyone knows we did that today.”
A special mention was given to the fans' player of the match, Marc Roberts. “He’s had such a huge rise from non-league football, not so long ago I remember him saying he had never seen himself on the tele! He was unlucky to score the own goal. I thought he was quick, strong and effective on the ball.”
Johnson responded to complimentary comments from Everton manager Roberto Martinez as the Spaniard stated the Barnsley players were ‘technically gifted.’ “He’s not wrong, is he?” quipped Johnson. “I shook all the Everton players’ hands and they complimented us too by saying our football was incredible. We have lost the match, but we have come out brave.”
