Speaking after our 0-0 draw with play-off chasing Millwall on Saturday afternoon, Gerhard Struber believes it could be an important point gained in the fight for Sky Bet Championship survival.
In an even game, the result could arguably have gone either way with Barnsley coming close to snatching victory late on and the Lions also rattling the woodwork in the first half.
The Reds remain four points behind Hull City with seven matches remaining after the Tigers were pegged back by Birmingham City in a six-goal thriller in the Midlands.
“It was a very difficult game, especially the physical strength from the opponent,” began Struber. “I think, for us, it was a big challenge but my boys also fought and gave what they could against this massive opponent.
“Maybe, in the end, it’s a very important point for us. The game, especially on the ball, was very difficult – we had no space, no time on the ball. It was a big challenge to play against Millwall, but this is no surprise for me.
“I am happy with the performance and also with the point, but our problem is more the results from the other teams near us. But we have no influence in this situation and we made a good job, it wasn’t easy and we need a good recovery to get three points on Tuesday.”
Despite slipping to the foot of the table, there are positives to take from the game – most notably a second consecutive clean sheet after coming back from lockdown.
Also, four points from two games is not to be sniffed at; the predicament could be particularly bleak, but hope remains that Barnsley can pull off the great escape this campaign.
“The clean sheet will give everyone a good feeling, especially against this physical opponent,” continued the Reds’ Head Coach. “You look at [Matt] Smith – he’s a top player and he came off the bench.
“I think the quality of Millwall is outstanding and, for my boys, the next step to play against this physical style in a positive mood, we have the clean sheet and this will give everyone a good feeling going into the next games.”
