After overseeing safe passage through to the Carabao Cup second round, Gerhard Struber says he is optimistic heading into the new campaign.
Barnsley ran out 1-0 winners against Nottingham Forest, with Cauley Woodrow proving to be the match-winner at Oakwell.
It was a game that the Reds largely dominated and our Head Coach was thrilled with the way his side implemented their style; nullifying the visitor’s threat and creating numerous goalscoring opportunities.
“I expected a performance on this level,” Struber told iFollow Barnsley. “I think the last few weeks was very good and it was the first step against a very good opponent; they have a big quality and I think my players were ready to make the first steps in the new season.
“It was a big test for the Championship start and, for me, a good picture – it gives me a good feeling for the next big games.
“We had control in the game, especially when we’re thinking chances and big chances in the second half with Cauley and Friesy. We worked very hard for chances and, in the end, this is a big situation that we can improve on in the next time.
“Our control on the ball in the second half – we moved the opponent and switched the game; we had more control with a better positioning. There are many things that we must improve in the next week, but I am happy for the result and the performance.”
The victory is another indication of just how far Barnsley have come over the past few months. This side are capable of grinding out results – as shown towards the back end of the previous campaign.
It’s now five consecutive clean sheets at Oakwell for Struber’s team, who haven’t conceded a goal on home soil since March, and the defensive solidity is a pleasing aspect for the Austrian.
“This is a very important situation that my back three and the whole team work well against the ball with good intensity and high aggression,” he continued. “I think this is the key in our game, we got a clean sheet and this gives everyone a good self-confidence.”
You can watch Gerhard’s post-match interview on iFollow Barnsley.
