One of the 3,702-strong travelling Tykes on Saturday was Reds midfielder Stephen Dawson. The Irishman is currently recovering from ankle ligament damage sustained in the 1-1 draw at Ipswich back in January.
“It was interesting,” Dawson told barnsleyfc.co.uk. “It was a great atmosphere with almost 4,000 there. They were in great voice. They were In good spirits and I had a good chat with a few of them.
“I get on well with all the fans. It was nice they were asking why I wasn’t up in a box or something. That’s the way it was, I enjoy mixing with the fans.
“You see how excited and how nervous the fans can get. It’s good to see how they go about their business. I’ve an awful lot of respect for them because they spend a lot of money supporting us and I’m pleased we got the result for them.”
Chris Dagnall clinched the tie in stoppage time and Dawson was delighted to witness the euphoria of his team-mate netting in front of the Red army.
“That was the great part,” Dawson continued. “He went through a bit of a rough time and he was questioned by some people. But a striker is judged on his goals and I think that’s now six out of seven for Daggers. He’s proven how clinical he be in front of goal and his work rate is just astronomical.
“I was right in front of Daggers when he came celebrating. I couldn’t get too far down, I would have jumped on top of him if I could have done!
“I thought the boys were tremendous from Luke Steele all the way up to Marlon Harewood. We all got the draw we wanted in the end, it’s going to be a great day out for all involved.
“I was jumping up and down when Jim came down and did the wiggle. When we scored I was delighted because with Daggers’ work-rate he deserved it.
“Every player in the team did really well and long may it continue.”
Dawson is setting his sights on a return to the side in mid-March for the big Man City match in the FA Cup Quarter Final, but has called for concentration on the league over the next few weeks.
“I’m looking forward to coming back training maybe next week and perhaps the fans might just see me in the next round of the cup,” he added.
“It’s always nice to have a cup run and make a bit of money for the club but the big games now are Wolves tomorrow and Bristol this Saturday.
“Obviously there’s a big hype about the Man City game but this Wolves game, and Bristol this Saturday, I hope they fans can turn out. The players really appreciate it, I believe if we show the same application and desire we can beat Wolves and climb up this table.”
