March 2009
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Ian Wilkinson at 22:19:00 0
An interesting debate ensued this evening. Not about Barnsley, but the current doom in which we all know about. The economy!

Where do you start?

One pal assured me that this situation (again not about our Football Club) is entirely false; because the real value of our situation was "invented" by credit notes given (in the past) to equal their worth in gold. That this "true" value had been ignored. Therefore everything could be explained as a fundamental problem of the past, rather than anything occuring now.

"B*ll*cks" I said intelligently. In a private room (nobody heard me... I just like saying it sometimes)... However "B*ll*cks Pal" I said, in full company, once more, to tempt an answer I could really understand.

Apparently, any price is "invented", it's "value" is based on demand.

There is a supply issue here then. For example, one Mike Sheron equals a Reuben Noble Lazurus, IF you take the games played ratio, versus the goals scored, shared by national column inches - plus the year within that story is being being written. For argument sake - this year 2009!

Let's buy shares then ..
  • KO could be our best risk yet
  • Bobby Hassell will Captain England (and I wish he would!)
  • Barnsley's record transfer in 2011 will equal, £50m pounds.
  • Oh and.... we will use our local talent to grow the average gate to above 15,000 fans - as quickly as we can.
Credit (once earned!) is due..

Come on Reds, it's our future at stake now. Tomorrow, will be harder without today!!

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Ian Wilkinson at 13:39:00 0
Nottingham Forest are set to take 3500 fans to Barnsley to back their side in the crucial relegation six pointer next Saturday. However a war of words has broken out between the clubs after Barnsley refused to extend their £5 ticket admission offer to away fans.

Nottingham Forest rivals site, urges all Forest fans to snap up their tickets to support their team but not to put another penny in the Oakwell coffers once inside the ground.

However, this tactic is doomed to failure. Protests in this area of the country historically erode very quickly. Once hunger bites, Nottingham is notorious for filling it's own belly and "sod the rest"!

Remember the strike? Probably not, you didn't take part!

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Ian Wilkinson at 16:01:00 0
On the 28th March 2009, this site moved to it's own dedicated URL, OnThePontyEnd.com

For those readers who have subscribed to my feeds via Email, there may be some effects to updates you receive. Please re-subscribe to Feedburner using the panel on the right hand side of the page. This should ensure that daily updates continue to be delivered to you.

Alternatively, if you're using a feed reader, all new links can be found HERE

Since the BlogSpot URL continues to work, everybody who has the BlogSpot URL bookmarked can continue to access the blog, transparently.

Thanks to everyone who has been supporting this blog. Working on a dedicated domain allows me to make some exciting changes to how On The Ponty End functions. Hopefully in the not too distant future, I will be able to make some further announcement on a service available through this site for fans of Barnsley Football Club.

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Ian Wilkinson at 13:20:00 0
Coca Cola Football League PodcastThe latest episode of the 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast is available to download now.

BBC Radio 5 Live's Mark Clemmit is joined by Football League Chairman Lord Mawhinney to talk football finance and the gamble Clubs take to achieve their goals.

Wolves defender and artist Jody Craddock tells us which colour will adorn the Championship trophy this year, while Dagenham & Redbridge Manager John Still is still reeling after his club were forced to postpone a recent match with Brentford due to a power failure.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a free weekly subscription by clicking here.

If you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.

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Ian Wilkinson at 13:01:00 0
Forest fans have hit out at being charged more than three times as much as Barnsley supporters for their Championship clash.

The travelling Forest fans are having to stump up £19 per ticket for the Oakwell Stadium fixture on April 4, compared to just £5 for Barnsley fans. All despite earlier reports suggesting that Nottingham Forest would be offering half price tickets for this fixture for those 1,150 away supporters who attended their drubbing recently at Turf Moor.

When Barnsley visited the City Ground last November both sets of fans were charged £10 per ticket.

Paul Ellis, chairman of Nottingham Forest Supporters Club, said: "When Forest have done their promotions, they included the away fans as well. It is not right."

After Barnsley announced its price for the upcoming game, Forest bosses called for the Football League to investigate but were told that nothing can be done about the issue.

A spokesman for Forest said: "We were happy to make a gesture to Barnsley fans earlier in the season and it is extremely disappointing that it has not been reciprocated.

He said: "There is nothing we can do. We will, however, learn from the experience."

A statement on the Barnsley Football Club website says: "This game is designated as a local promotion as per Football League rule 31.2.11."

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Ian Wilkinson at 18:39:00 0
Swindon Town boss Danny Wilson revealed he is still after one more player to bolster his relegation battlers, but any potential deal will not be completed until after their clash tonight at Northampton.

With the emergency loan window closing on Thursday afternoon, according to the Swindon Advertiser, Wilson has lined up a player from a Championship club - believed to be a striker.

However, the arrival will depend on the outcome of tonight’s trip to Northampton and whether any of Swindon’s stars pick up injuries.

“We’re talking to a club and it’s about availability,” admitted Wilson, who is thought to have run the rule over Barnsley’s Kayode Odejayi, with the front man’s one-month loan at Scunthorpe expiring this week.

“We will push the button later on in the week if we think we need to.

“At this moment in time I’m not really going to push it and say ‘yes, we’re definitely getting him.’ “I’ll make my mind up by Wednesday or something like that. Then we’ll see what we need.

“Let’s get Tuesday’s game out of the way first and see how we cope after that one.

“If we come away without any areas being affected then I won’t do it.”

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Ian Wilkinson at 12:56:00 0
The Emergency Loan window will slam shut at 5.00pm this Thursday (March 26).

Considering the risk that any injuries to the pairing of Fozzy and Big Daz could be our biggest weakness in the run-in, will Simon Davey look to strengthen in this area? Following the publicised rift between the Boss and Souza, do we have a reliable back-up?

Whatever happens, that's it for the rest of the season and club will be unable to bring in any new faces after the deadline.

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Ian Wilkinson at 12:47:00 0
Football League clubs have until 5pm on Thursday to go into administration and an automatic ten point deduction this season rather than next.

Leyton Orient Chairman Barry Hearn has painted a bleak picture for football and predicted that up to ten clubs could go into administration in the coming months.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Hearn said: "If this recession continues, and if clubs don't take the appropriate action of cutting their operating costs, you will see double figure clubs going into administration in the next 12 months. There will be lots more lower league teams going into administration due to the weight of the economic crisis."

Darlington went into administration last month and manager Dave Penney added: "I've had contact from people, not just in this division, but the division above. There's a cut-off date and I know a lot of clubs that are close to administration. From talking to people, we might be the first but we won't be the last. I'd say five will go this year."

Whether this financial crisis extends to the highest level of the league, only time will tell. The Championship is full of clubs who have paid high wages and chased the Premiership dream or have retained high costs as a result of relegation from the top tier.

For now, Barnsley have it in their hands to stay in this league on merit, but I will personally view this deadline with interest.

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Ian Wilkinson at 18:54:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey believes his side is still in relegation trouble despite taking four points from their last two matches.

Davey said: "We're only three points above the relegation zone and we're by no means out of danger yet.

"We've had a good performance and got a point, but now we've got a two-week break and we need to get everybody refreshed and ready for Nottingham Forest.

"Hopefully when they come to our stadium three points behind us and us having two games in hand we can capitalise on that and beat them.

"It's nice to continue when you're in this form, but a few of the players picked up knocks. We get rest and recuperation now for the Nottingham Forest game."

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Ian Wilkinson at 12:47:00 0
Kayode Odejayi has returned to Barnsley after his loan spell at League One promotion-chasers Scunthorpe expired.

The 27-year-old made six appearances in his month-long stay with the Iron, scoring one goal in the 1-1 draw with Walsall earlier this month. Boss Nigel Adkins has decided against extending Odejayi's spell with the club.

"Big Kay is going back to Barnsley and we thank him very much for all his efforts," Adkins told his club's official website.

"He's been unfortunate but Ben May is now fit again so it all ties in nicely.

"Barnsley are in a relegation battle and need all their players available. Kay has been outstanding and has been a model professional."

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Ian Wilkinson at 23:38:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey admitted a draw at Derby was a blow in his team's battle to avoid relegation from the Coca-Cola Championship.

Davey saw his side outplay the home side at Pride Park, but the lack of a cutting edge cost them two points.

Davey, whose side are hovering above the bottom three, said: "Ordinarily a point at Derby County would be something for a big celebration, but on this occasion, it has to go down as a disappointment.

"That's up there with our best performances of the season. We dominated the first 45 minutes and we were better than them in the second half.

"Jon Macken had a great chance but their goalkeeper pulled off an unbelievable save, you won't see better than that all season.

"We also hit a post, although that was probably not intended, and Michael Mifsud had a couple of chances when he was through on the goalkeeper, and that's why I think it should have been a three-point game for us.

"It's very frustrating to create so many chances and only end up with one point, but when you are down where we are, you don't get lucky breaks."

Derby, who are three points higher up the table, were below par for long periods of the game.

Macken looked nailed on to score, 12 minutes from time, after chesting down a high ball from Hugo Colace but his close range shot hit the chest of goalkeeper Stephen Bywater and bounced to safety.

Mifsud was denied by Bywater in two one-on-one situations either side of the interval while substitute El Haimour floated a cross against the far post which had deceived Bywater.

With Nottingham Forest losing at home to Wolves, Barnsley still moved three points clear of the danger zone and have eight games to play. Significantly, they also have two games in hand on the majority of the other clubs in the relegation scrap.

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Ian Wilkinson at 18:28:00 0
There were chances at both ends, but the Coca-Cola Championship match between Derby and Barnsley ended goalless at Pride Park.

The visitors created the better chances, Michael Mifsud twice seeing his shots saved by Stephen Bywater when one-on-one with the Derby goalkeeper.

Bywater also produced a stunning save to thwart former Ram Jon Macken from point-blank range as Nigel Clough's side never hit their stride.

Cheered on by another capacity crowd, Derby started brightly and forced a corner in the opening minute when Andy Todd's cross was deflected behind by Bobby Hassell.

Barnsley survived the early scare and got a foothold in the game, before creating two chances in as many minutes.

Hugo Colace's goalbound effort after five minutes was blocked by on-loan Watford midfielder John Eustace, making his home debut.

Jamal Campbell-Ryce then shot into the side-netting from the left-hand side of the area.

Bywater's long throw set Gary Teale free down the left in the ninth minute - and the winger, recalled to the Scotland squad this week after almost a year, came within inches of scoring. But his looping shot narrowly cleared the bar.

Barnsley went close with a similar effort soon afterwards when Anderson de Silva's chip from the edge of the box landed on the roof of the net.

The visitors were presented with a golden chance to open the scoring midway through the first half.

Robbie Savage's poor header allowed Macken to release his strike partner Mifsud, but the Malta international's shot was blocked by Bywater.

Mifsud was fortunate to escape a booking for a bad foul on Derby captain Paul Connolly three minutes before the break, referee Andy Penn choosing to give the diminutive striker a telling-off.

Another long clearance by Bywater caused Barnsley problems in added time at the end of the first half when goalkeeper Heinz Muller spilled the ball under a challenge from Rob Hulse - but Simon Davey's side managed to clear the danger.

Clough brought on Barry Bannan at the break, Nacer Barazite making way.

Just as in the first half, it was the Rams who immediately created a chance.

Steve Davies broke clear down the right wing; his cross was met by Eustace, but his header was straight at Muller.

From Muller's clearance, a short back pass by Todd allowed Mifsud a second one-on-one opportunity, but Bywater again won the battle of nerves and blocked with his feet.

An injury forced off Barnsley defender Robert Kozluk after 49 minutes, and he was replaced by Mounir El Haimour.

The change coincided with Derby seeing more of the ball in their opponents half and Muller reacted well to push Eustace's shot wide after 65 minutes.

From the resulting corner, Todd was unable to direct his far-post header goalwards.

Teale then stung Muller's palms with a long-range shot.

But Barnsley threatened again midway through the second half when Bywater failed to collect Andranik Teymourian's long free-kick under pressure from former Derby defender Darren Moore.

Stephen Foster was first to react to the loose ball - but fortunately for Bywater, his overhead kick was straight at him.

Bywater had another lucky escape when he left El Haimour's deep cross from the left only to see it hit the post.

The Derby goalkeeper produced a superb save from point-blank range to thwart Macken after 78 minutes.

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Ian Wilkinson at 22:51:00 0
An article has been published this month by The Barnsley FC Supporters Trust, showing some outstanding work that recently been undertaken to restore the Memorial of Barnsley FC Founder, Reverend Tiverton Preedy.

The Reverend Preedy is buried at a cemetery in the London area, where it was found that his grave had fallen into disrepair. Now, following a successful appeal for donations, the Supporters Trust have now paid for the full restoration of the grave, a project conceived and completed by members of both the Trust and (fans group) the London Tykes

Reverend Tiverton Preedy's disrepaired memorial

(Left) A picture taken before the restoration work was carried out.


Reverend Tiverton Preedy's restored memorial




(Right) the completed restoration of the Memorial.

Further pictures can be viewed by clicking this link.

For fans seeking further information on Barnsley FC's illustrious founder, there's a great resource page written by local historian Chris Hobbs here


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Ian Wilkinson at 21:16:00 0
Anderson De Silva believes Barnsley must aim to win all of their remaining Championship fixtures if they are to ensure their survival.

The former Everton midfielder, who started his career with Uruguayan outfit Nacional, was instrumental in the Reds' 3-1 win over Crystal Palace in midweek, and the Brazilian insists they must use that performance as a benchmark in their final nine games of the season.

"I am just very happy that I could do my bit and help us get three points," De Silva told the club's official website. "I have spoken to my family and friends in Brazil since the game and they all know about the situation the team was in and they are happy that I helped get three points and turned that situation into one that looks a little better.

"The job is not finished and we have got to go out and win every game to make sure we stay in this division. We have to concentrate 100% and we were like that against Crystal Palace.

"We have to do the same at Derby. Of course everybody would be happy with something from the game but we will be looking to win. Another three points would be fantastic.

"Derby are a good side but if we can play in the same way as we did on Tuesday then I am sure we will win the game."

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Ian Wilkinson at 23:13:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey says Brazilian defender Dennis Souza is available for selection for Saturday's trip to Derby after he apologised for his midweek strop.

According to this week's Chronicle, Souza refused to sit on the bench for Tuesday's game against Crystal Palace. His name was originally submitted among the list of substitutes but Souza refused, forcing Davey to cross his name off the list at the last minute.

Davey said: "Dennis chose not to be a substitute. You want people fighting your corner, you want the players in the trenches with you and Dennis chose not to join us in the trenches."

Striker Daniel Bogdanovic also made known his dismay about being dropped and it is understood Luke Steele has been upset at his lack of first team opportunities. But Davey added: "I believe in my players and I know we will stay in this division - but I am paid to pick the squad and sometimes you have to like it or lump it."

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Ian Wilkinson at 12:54:00 0
Football League podcastThe latest episode of the 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast is available to download now.

This week Mark Clemmit is joined by Rotherham United Manager Mark Robins, who after keeping Sir Alex Ferguson in a job at Old Trafford now wants to replace him.

He also speaks to Joe Royle, who is back in management at Oldham Athletic, 15 years after leaving Boundary Park for Everton, while Matt Abbott of group Skint & Demoralised talks about life as a Leeds United Fan.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a free weekly subscription by clicking here.

If you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.

Have your say HERE | Submit an article HERE
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Ian Wilkinson at 23:35:00 0
That's the popular phrase, but Reds fans might want to consider the following before completing the BBC's excellent Championship predictor.

For example; when dividing the current league table in to three groups, consisting of the Top eight, Middle eight and the remaining teams, Barnsley's points per game tally against opposition in the lowest group is not the greatest.

Versus Top eight opposition we average - 0.8 points* per game.

Against the next group, currently placed between 9th & 16th in the Championship we averaged - 1.9 points* per game. No other team in this group has performed better than Barnsley against teams in this group. Preston are nearest with 1.8 points*.

Finally in our back-yard, teams from 17th place to 24th, we averaged 1.2 points* per game. Only Norwich, Charlton and Plymouth have performed worse against this level of opposition.

Do your calculations - where will that put the Reds come May 3rd?

* Statistics derived from Football Anorak
Next week, I shall be testing the theory; Can Barnsley only score more than one goal in temperatures of over 4.5C, with a slight South Westerly breeze?

Is the World really round? and...

Would Oakwell "turn-up" at the corners if water was not applied by the ground staff at Half-Time?

See you later!


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Ian Wilkinson at 22:50:00 0
A great win for the Reds tonight, in a game that could have seen Barnsley put five or six past Palace and Colin W.

Early nerves were clearly on show when a series of Barnsley defenders failed to prevent Palace's early rushes within the Reds half. Venturing regularly, this culminated in a weak / scuffed clearance attempt by Fozzy. Palace accepted the "gift" and the prevailing lead was gained by a grateful Palace frontman, Kuqi.

But tonight there were no bad gusts and distractions. Infact, I only saw a single, stray, empty Crisp packet ..(and that was probably at half time). The Reds showed purpose and determination to get back in to the match immediately.

From a peach of a through ball, JCR brought Barnsley back-to-life and from then the Palace defence began to creak everytime Adam Hammill and JCR took the game to them.

Anderson De Silva twice made runs in to the box at corners during the first half, reaching the ball on both occasions, however in both cases his attempts were headed straight at Crystal Palace's man in the nets, Speroni. Either opportunity could have seen Barnsley 3-1 up by half-time, instead the Ref whistled to end the first half with both sides even at 1-1.

Decisions didn't really go Barnsley's way. Whilst Colin W's squad wasn't overly physical, Barnsley were punished regularly by the referee. SD was clearly venting his frustration at the lack of consistency by the officials who in similar circumstances did not award Barnsley the same.

The next goal was going to be crucial for either side and for a change Barnsley had fortune on their side, when Palace defender Hills turned a square ball from Mifsud into his own goal. Macken was the perceived threat, but on this occasion the Palace defender entirely fluffed it.

Just like in the first half, Barnsley sought to cause constant problems down the wings, with close support from Colace and De Silva they always looked capable of further goals. Therefore when Mifsud was slid through with just the keeper to beat - The Ponty End expected him to deliver, which he did to send Barnsley 3-1 up, with a quarter of an hour left to play.

Squeeky bum time this was not, but Palace did venture forward looking to haul themselves back in, but the Reds' defence remained resolute. 3-1 it remained.

Barnsley are out of the relegation places for now. With Derby and Forest due to be played shortly, we're not out of the woods by any stretch.. but it's the right start to the next phase of our remaining fixtures.

Well done lads !!


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Ian Wilkinson at 18:59:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey has admitted he should be held accountable if the Reds are relegated from the Championship this season.

Davey said: "At the end of the day I am responsible. I pick the team, I buy the players and I pick the tactics.

"If we go down then it will be my fault. If we stay up and do better than last season then I should get the plaudits. We have to make sure that we stay focussed. No one wanted to be in a relegation battle, but that is something we have to put right."

Davey added: "When we've had a fully-fit and available squad we have done well this season. When we've had three or four players out we've struggled.

"We strengthened in the transfer window and our results picked up, but losing Anderson (De Silva), Andranik (Teymourian) and Stephen Foster has hit us hard. They are big players for us."

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Ian Wilkinson at 19:58:00 0
Nottingham Forest will be offering half price tickets to the Barnsley match for those 1,150 away supporters who attended last Saturday's game against Burnley at Turf Moor.

Manager Billy Davies went on record after the weekend game as saying that Forest supporters at the match deserved an apology for the level of performance.

And now in recognition of the fantastic support, the club have decided on subsidising the cost of admission for the Barnsley game on Saturday April 4 for those fans who purchased Burnley tickets.

Now, there's a novel gesture!

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Ian Wilkinson at 19:53:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey has urged the Oakwell faithful not to desert his players in their fight to avoid relegation.

The Tykes have won only one of their last five league matches and slumped into the bottom three following their home defeat to relegation rivals Blackpool over the weekend.

Davey said: "There were a few words said in the dressing room after the Blackpool game and we have to put it right. Everybody at this club wants to stay in this division and we have to make sure we do that.

"We need people to stick with us. I know there were a lot of disappointed people after the game on Saturday, but none more than me. With our fans behind us we will win matches, but we have to spark them.

"We have to give them a lift. We need them out in their numbers on Tuesday night, get behind the players and make sure they rally us on to a win."

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Ian Wilkinson at 19:46:00 0
The returns of captain Stephen Foster and midfielder Anderson De Silva will provide a boost for Barnsley in the home clash with Crystal Palace.

Foster has been out for the last two games due to suspension and Brazilian De Silva has missed three games while on compassionate leave following the sudden death of his mother.

But manager Simon Davey will still be without on-loan Fulham midfielder Andranik Teymourian, who will serve the final game of a three-match suspension following his straight red card at Cardiff.

Davey must decided whether to retain Michael Mifsud and Daniel Bogdanovic up front or recall Jon Macken against his former club.

The Tykes slipped into the bottom three following Saturday's home defeat to Blackpool and have won one of their last five league matches.

Crystal Palace will without defender Claude Davis at Oakwell.

The on-loan Derby centre-back missed Saturday's 3-1 win at Swansea with a thigh injury and looks set to be out for a fortnight.

With Matt Lawrence (hamstring) and Paddy McCarthy (shoulder) also injured, left-back Clint Hill moved to centre-half at the Liberty Stadium.

Hill should remain in the middle at Oakwell with youngster Lee Hills filling in on the left once more.

McCarthy, who underwent a shoulder operation earlier this year, has been pencilled in for a return to action against QPR on April 4.

Teenage forward Victor Moses made a goalscoring return from a hamstring injury in Wales and should keep his place.

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Ian Wilkinson at 00:03:00 0
After a dismal performance against Blackpool at home at the weekend, the Reds now face Palace in a match that could determine where we finish in the final shake up.

If you want to offer your thoughts and views, this is the place to do it.

On The Ponty End is inviting you to submit your article, which could be based on any Barnsley FC news topic or related subject.

I look forward to hearing your slant on the Match, Fan's Opinions, Transfer Rumours and any humorous items are particularly welcome.

Although I can't guarantee that everything we receive will be published, the article that is judged to be the "Best of the Week", will occupy the link on the home page as this week's Featured Post

Cheers, WILKY

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Ian Wilkinson at 12:04:00 0
This morning, the Daily Mirror's Michael Mavin, makes a scathing attack on Sheffield United.
Sheffield United should pay Barnsley’s medical bills with their blood money

Spare us the street corner sermons. Don’t bother claiming the moral high ground.

By taking up to £25million from West Ham without High Court scrutiny, Sheffield United have got their blood money.

Perhaps now they will do the right thing, and pay Barnsley’s medical bills. Incurred because of the unprovoked, unpunished, assault on Iain Hume by United’s Chris Morgan.

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Ian Wilkinson at 20:01:00 0
BARNSLEY dropped into the bottom three after a disastrous result at Oakwell.

And the man who consigned them to defeat against fellow strugglers was Sheffield Wednesday winger Wade Small.

The unwanted Owls player only joined Blackpool on loan on Friday but he lashed in a right-foot volley in the 70th minute to settle the contest and give the visitors a welcome double over the Reds to move away from the drop zone.

Strong gusts spoiled the game as a contest but the best Barnsley could muster came in the first half when a header from central defender Dennis Souza was cleared off the line.

Maltese strikers Michael Mifsud and Daniel Bogdanovic made little impression as the Reds switched to a 4-4-2 system but to no avail.

Barnsley boss Simon Davey said: "It wasn't the result I was looking for.

"We didn't step up to the plate. We are disappointed but we've got 11 games left and when it comes to May 4 then we'll decide how well we've done.

"It's not going to be judged on one day. It was a big game for us and we lost it and that's what happens in this division.

"Nothing dropped for us and if we were still out there now, we wouldn't score. It's disappointing because we lost at home and lost to a team that's around us."

Barnsley thought they should have had a penalty three minutes before the interval when Michael Mifsud went down in the area but the referee waived away the appeals.

Davey said: "I thought it was a penalty but the referee didn't and he didn't have a bad game."

Blackpool, who had not won at Barnsley in their last five attempts, had the better of the first half and could have taken the lead through Joe Martin`s volley.

The Tykes could have leapfrogged their opponents with a win but never got into their passing rhythm, with the defeat heightening the threat of relegation at the South Yorkshire club.

Barnsley boss Simon Davey made two changes to the side which drew 1-1 with Birmingham in midweek with Adam Hammill and Mounir El Haimour replacing Jon Macken and Marciano Van Homoet.

The visitors also sported two changes to their starting XI with Small handed his debut while Martin replaced Graeme Owens.

Neither side could get a stranglehold on the game early on and chances were few and far between.

It was the visitors who eventually threatened after 10 minutes when Small found Martin in the box, but the midfielder could only volley wide from the edge of the area.

Barnsley were second best for the first 20 minutes with Maltese strike duo Daniel Bogdanovic and Michael Mifsud kept at bay by the visiting defence.

The Reds finally had a shot on goal in the 34th minute with first Bobby Hassell firing wide then Rob Kozluk also failing to find the target with a speculative effort.

Hammill went close to giving the hosts the lead on the stroke of half time but the on-loan Liverpool man saw his 20-yard free-kick tipped round the post by Paul Rachubka.

The second half began much like the first with neither side showing enough quality to unlock their opponents' defence.

On the one rare occasion Blackpool breached the home defence DJ Campbell, who was in inspirational form against the Blades in midweek, volleyed wastefully over when he should have hit the target.

At the other end Hammill was proving a real handful and Rachubka had to be at his best to tip over the midfielder`s dipping effort.

The save proved to be crucial as moments later the visitors took the lead through Small.

Martin was the creator as he delivered a pinpoint cross for Small to volley into the top corner to stun the home faithful.

Rachubka saved well from a Jamal Campbell-Ryce effort late on as the Reds saw their winless run extended to three games.

Yorkshire Post, 14 March 2009

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Ian Wilkinson at 19:29:00 2
For those of you who may have noticed, the Tesco carrier bag went 1-0 up at half time; drifting in from the left before nestling in the North Stand goal on 41 minutes. We had been waiting patiently for the deadlock to be broken.

As soon as half-time came, off he drifted gain, but this time toward aisle 24 of the Stairfoot branch - to be on hand, to assist an elderly shopper who found themselves bereft of just one more bag. What a performance!

Many may have assumed that a Jack Fulton's carrier had finally made it's Oakwell debut, but to those aficionados amongst you would have easily recognised a standard fare - Barnsley Market - "better double bag it" regular, mark the second half with an easy effort into the Ponty End Goal. 2- 0.

The rest of the afternoon just seemed scrappy. Random serviettes, "Viscount" wrappers and even a piece of tin foil tried to make their mark, but that's how it ended.

Oh, and Barnsley were beaten 1-0 at home today by Blackpool. WTF?

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Ian Wilkinson at 02:00:00 0
Barnsley's Mr Versatile, Bobby Hassell, describes today's clash against Blackpool as a "must win" encounter as both sides battle to avoid relegation.

Hassell is a recognised full-back, but played alongside Hugo Colace in the centre of midfield in Tuesday's draw with Birmingham City due to the absence of Anderson de Silva and Andranik Teymourian.

The 28 year-old could occupy a similar role at Oakwell this afternoon.

"If we get the three points it will put us above Blackpool and that would be massive" says Hassell, a rumoured summer target for Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United.

"We have to beat the teams around us. It is a must-win game for us."

The Reds are placed precariously, just one point above the drop-zone. But should they beat the Seasiders, they will go over them on goal difference with three games in hand.

Hassell expects 54 or 55 points to ensure the club's safety, but is adamant the team should be higher up the league."We wouldn't be in this situation if we had kept everyone fit," he said. "We've had horrendous luck with injuries and suspensions."

Sheffield Star, 14 March 2009

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Ian Wilkinson at 19:29:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey does not expect to make any changes to his starting line-up for the home clash with relegation rivals Blackpool.

The Tykes will again be without Anderson De Silva following the recent death of his mother, while fellow midfielder Andranik Teymourian and defender Stephen Foster remain sidelined through suspension.

Diego Leon is not ready to return from a hamstring strain, but otherwise Davey has no other new injury or suspension problems.

Bobby Hassell is likely to continue in midfield and Davey also has the option of starting with on-loan Liverpool winger Adam Hammill or Martin Devaney.

Davey must also decide whether to retain strikers Michael Mifsud, Jon Macken and Daniel Bogdanovic in the same starting line-up.

Blackpool caretaker boss Tony Parkes will check on the fitness of a number of players ahead of the crunch trip to fellow strugglers Barnsley.

Midfielder David Vaughan missed Tuesday's 2-2 draw at Sheffield United with a groin strain and looks set to remain sidelined along with on-loan Sunderland winger Roy O'Donovan.

O'Donovan also missed out at Bramall Lane and could be out for the rest of the season after he underwent surgery to have his appendix removed on Wednesday.

Striker Brett Ormerod also missed the United game due to a virus and will be assessed along with skipper Rob Edwards.

Edwards has missed the last four games with an ankle injury but is edging closer to a recovery while defender Ian Evatt and striker

Ben Burgess remain sidelined with knee injuries.

Middlesbrough midfielder Gareth Owens will be available after he extended his loan spell at Bloomfield Road for a third and final month.

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Ian Wilkinson at 20:17:00 0
The latest episode of the 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast is available to download now.

BBC Radio 5 Live's Mark Clemmit is at the Withdean Stadium this week to speak to Brighton & Hove Albion Chairman Dick Knight who discusses the progress of the club's proposed move to Falmer.

Former Portsmouth striker Steve Claridge takes listeners on a scouting trip and Brentford Manager Andy Scott reflects on the Bees' seven point lead at the top of League 2.

Finally, new Seagulls boss Russell Slade explains why he thinks his Chairman needs to tuck into a good piece of haddock.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a free weekly subscription by clicking here.

If you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.

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Ian Wilkinson at 22:36:00 0
I couldn't believe it either.

Half expecting a spectacle this evening, a rowdy Tuesday evening with decent away support to bolster the side that started and ended the evening in an automatic promotion spot.

I mean, Barnsley is what, an hour and a half away from Birmingham? Apparently, it's the second largest city in the UK. Promotion beckons "the Blues" and only 564 loyal away followers arrive. Disappointing.

But the thing that really sank tonights performance, was the unexpected arrival of E.L.O to Oakwell this evening.

No, not the melodic Brummy rocksters from the seventies - that would have probably been alright. I mean the real E.L.O. And you've seen them several times already this season.

Effing Ludicrous Officials, took to the stage once more at Oakwell.

Wait for the match reports, because in summary they will probably put a clearer case forward than I can this evening; however already Barnsley FC's official site states,
"Johnson was very, very lucky to stay on the pitch on 40 minutes after going in over the ball on Hassell on the half way line as the pair went for a 50/50 ball. It was an ugly challenge by the Birmingham midfielder and he was fortunate to escape with a booking. Hassell was fortunate to be able to continue."

"If Johnson was lucky to escape with a caution before the break he could have taken an early walk just two minutes after the restart for a late challenge on Colace which went unpunished."

"The Reds had a clear penalty appeal waved away just a minute later as Macken threaded a pass to Campbell-Ryce in the area. Although the winger could not get control of the ball he was tripped by Jaidi as he turned to race after it. The referee gave nothing."

"Refereeing decisions against the Reds were bordered on the farcical, not least when Larsson's free kick on 69 minutes evaded everybody and dropped out of play only for the officials to award a corner. Larsson's kick out at Macken then went unpunished two minutes later."
Personally, I saw Moore hauled down in the first half too. All unpunished.

Credit to the lads. They stuck to their task, kept their heads and their discipline when it was clear that the officials were watching with "Blue" eyes. A fantastic team effort that perhaps deserved all three points.

Jeff Lynne, Bev Bevan et al are welcome at Oakwell. But to tonights officials; If Oakwell's floodlights are giving you sun-stroke, due to the missing thatch of hair which was obsolete from your heads, stay away!

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Ian Wilkinson at 12:51:00 0
Barnsley will be without both Anderson De Silva and Andranik Teymourian for the clash with Birmingham tonight.

The midfield duo are out for very different reasons, though as De Silva has returned home following the unexpected death of his mother and the club have assured him he can take as long as he needs.

Teymourian, on loan from Fulham, was shown a straight red card at Cardiff for slapping Micheal Chopra and he is out for three matches.

Striker Jon Macken is available and he could come into the attack or alternatively boss Simon Davey could stick with Maltese pair Michael Mifsud and Daniel Bogdanovic.

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Ian Wilkinson at 18:32:00 0
"Respect" campaign dealt a blow

The FA’s troubled “Respect” campaign was dealt a blow today as the number of MPs calling on the governing body to abandon it reached 15. The politicians are protesting the decision not to punish Chris Morgan, the Sheffield United defender, for the challenge which left Iain Hume, the Barnsley striker, with a fractured skull.

Amid much fanfare, the FA launched their “Respect” agenda at the start of the season in a bid to improve behaviour towards referees by players, fans and managers at all levels of the game. While the harassment of officials seems to have decreased in the top-flight, the credibility of a scheme aimed at boosting referees’ authority has been undermined by several high-profile errors from officials during matches that have led to predictably scathing post-match comments from managers.

Morgan elbowed Hume in the side of the head during a Coca-Cola Championship game at Oakwell last November but was only booked by Andy D’Urso, the referee, and the FA decided not to take any additional action. Barnsley were furious and have considered taking legal action against Morgan for the challenge.

In December, Eric Illsley, MP for Barnsley Central, tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM) calling for the FA to review that decision and Emily Thornberry, Labour MP for Islington South and Finsbury, is the latest to back it.

The MPs’ statement reads: “This House views with astonishment the decision by the Football Association to take no further action against the Sheffield United player Chris Morgan following an incident during Barnsley’s match against Sheffield United on November 8, 2008.

“[It] resulted in the admission of Barnsley player Iain Hume to a hospital intensive care unit suffering from a fractured skull and bleeding to the brain;

and [the EDM] calls on the Football Association to review this decision and either to take action against what can only be described as violent conduct or to abandon once and for all its so-called Respect Agenda in view of the lack of protection given to Iain Hume and the complete failure of football’s governing body to deal properly with this issue”.

Hume, a Canada international, underwent emergency surgery and spent 24 hours in a Manchester hospital’s high dependency unit as a result of Morgan’s challenge and has only recently returned to non-contact training. He is unlikely to play competitively again this season. The FA decided not to punish Morgan further, concluding they could “only bring additional charges in the most exceptional cases and only if it can be proved beyond doubt that the actions of a player were a deliberate attempt to injure an opponent.”

TimesOnline, 9th March 2009

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Ian Wilkinson at 18:21:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey believes his side's destiny this season will be determined by their next three Championship matches.

The Reds have lost five of their last eight league games and currently lie fourth from bottom, two points clear of the relegation zone, albeit with two games in hand.
Davey, whose side face three consecutive home games against Birmingham, Blackpool and Crystal Palace, said: "We now have three massive home matches this week. It is no coincidence that we tend to win games here when our supporters are right behind the team.

"We get results when we are together and we showed that against QPR. We have three matches in a week that will shape our season.

"Birmingham will come here with an arrogance about them because they are going for promotion. They will expect to come and win this game and attack us. Hopefully that will benefit us."

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Ian Wilkinson at 13:42:00 0
REDS striker Daniel Bogdanovic has revealed he is enjoying his partnership with fellow Malta forward Michael Mifsud.

The pair have been playing together up front since arriving at Oakwell prior to the transfer window closing at the end of January.

Bogdanovic has scored twice in five appearances, although Mifsud is still to get off the mark. The latter creates the opening goal for Bogdanovic in last week's win against QPR.

"The partnership is getting much, much better game after game," said the 28 year-old. "But it is not just about me and Michael, it is all about the team."

Sheffield Star, 7 March 2008

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Ian Wilkinson at 18:50:00 0
Defender Rob Kozluk is confident Barnsley can battle their way out of the relegation danger they currently find themselves in.

The Reds are just two points off the drop zone as the season reaches its final stages and have won just two of their last nine league games.

However, Kozluk firmly believes his team-mates have nothing to fear and are more than capable of guiding the club to safety.

"We know that if we win all our matches we will be okay," he told the club`s official website.

"We know who the in-form sides are and that we can beat anyone if we play how we can. We have seen everyone this season and there is no-one we should fear."


With that in mind, by my reckoning Kozzy, 76 points puts us right in the play-off pack!! No more slip-ups then, we can dream of Wembley once more!!

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Ian Wilkinson at 18:46:00 1
BARNSLEY striker Kayode Odejayi may have only been a second half substitute for Scunthorpe on Tuesday night but the hitman marked his Glanford Park debut with a goal.

Kayode replaced ex-Red Paul Hayes on 68 minutes to make his home debut for The Iron and netted the opening goal against Walsall. The game ended 1-1. It was Kayode's second appearance for Scunthorpe after joining on loan last week.

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Ian Wilkinson at 00:31:00 0
The FA have confirmed the imminent bans to both Fozzy and Teymourian, causing more pressure on the gaffer Simon Davey as he prepares the Reds for their critical home triple headers.

Barnsley skipper Stephen Foster is out for another spell after picking up his tenth caution of the season at Cardiff City. The booking means he will now serve a two game ban, ruling him out of the games against Birmingham City and Blackpool.

Andranik Teymourian has been handed a three match suspension following his red card on Tuesday night. The Iranian international was sent off after 64 minutes at Ninian Park for violent conduct and will serve a three match bam starting immediately. In addition to the Birmingham and Palace encounters, he will also miss the final home game of the run against Palace.

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Ian Wilkinson at 13:40:00 0
Barnsley boss Simon Davey is ready to test Liverpool's resolve to keep winger Adam Hammill with a cash offer, according to reports.

The 21 year-old Scouser is currently on loan at Oakwell and has started the last two games against QPR and Cardiff.

Hammill, who has had previous spells at Championship rivals Southampton and Blackpool, signed a new three-year contract at Anfieldin the summer.

The young livewire says it is his "dream" to play in front of the Kop, but accepts that Rafael Benitez holds the key to his future.

"It's not down to me whether I am good enough to earn a contract here or whether I am good enough to go back to Liverpool," he said.

Sheffield Star, 5 March 2009
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Ian Wilkinson at 13:38:00 0
BARNSLEY boss Simon Davey has called on the fans to make Oakwell a fortress for the remainder of the season.

Barnsley are in danger of being dragged into the relegation battle at the wrong end of the Championship after defeat to Cardiff on Tuesday, where Davey thought the fans influenced the referee.

The Reds boss now wants a similar sort of atmosphere at Oakwell for the remainder of the campaign in order to help the side stave off the threat of relegation.

Davey said: "We need to get back on the training ground to get ready for a massive game against Birmingham. We have got 12 games left and we need to get more points on the board quickly.

"We have got home games to come, so hopefully we can get the crowd behind us and do what Cardiff fans did."
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Ian Wilkinson at 13:29:00 0
The latest episode of the 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast is available to download now.

BBC Radio 5 Live's Mark Clemmit is at the home of Bradford City this week, where he is joined by English football's first Pakistani international player Zesh Rehman, who has joined the Bantams on loan from Queens Park Rangers. He talks about what is being done and what more can be done to attract Asians into football, shocked by the statistic that there are currently only five Asian players in the top four divisions of English football.

Walsall defender Netan Sansara also joins the debate after he was recently capped by England U18's and is being tipped as possibly the first Asian player to gain a full England cap.

The new Manager of Southampton Mark Wotte pops in to reveal the truth behind his sides' recent revival which has seen them beat promotion hopefuls Preston North End and Ipswich Town.

Clem is also joined by Bournemouth legend Steve Fletcher, whose return to the club in January has sparked a revival, which has seen them move out of the League 2 relegation zone for the first time this season.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a free weekly subscription by clicking here.

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Ian Wilkinson at 22:08:00 0
REDS manager Simon Davey gave his thoughts after a controversial defeat at Ninian Park.

Speaking to the club's official site, Simon said: "There were a lot of turning points and I think their (the officials) performance was not up to the standard we normally see. We were not at the races in the first half though. I have to be careful with what I say but we were not happy with the referee.

"It is very unlike us to concede from a corner and that was disappointing. We were on the back foot in the first half and fair play to Cardiff for the way they started the game.

"I was pleased with what I saw in the second half and we got back into it.

"It was not our night with the officials but we will live to fight another day. Bring on Birmingham.

"Anderson has flown back to Brazil to be with his family after his mother died in the night. Our thoughts are with him".
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Ian Wilkinson at 21:48:00 0
CARDIFF looked on course to be the scourge of their Coca-Cola Championship rivals Barnsley once again as goals from Joe Ledley and Michael Chopra gave them a comfortable half-time lead at Ninian Park.

Ledley maintained his knack of scoring against the Reds with the opening goal after just three minutes - converting a Peter Whittingham corner.

And things went from bad to worse for the Tykes just before the interval as Chopra tapped in from close range after Whittingham's shot was spilt by Heinz Muller.

In truth the lead was no more than City deserved as they looked the more threatening throughout against a Barnsley side who have not beaten their Welsh opponents in their last seven attempts.

The hosts was given a huge boost before kick off with Chopra able to take his place in the starting line up after shaking off a heel problem. The former Tykes striker was one of three changes to Dave Jones' starting XI with Eddie Johnson and Darcy Blake also handed starts.

Barnsley manager Simon Davey made one change to the side which beat QPR 2-1 at Oakwell on Saturday with Jamal Campbell-Ryce replacing Anderson De Silva.

But the Tykes soon found themselves up against it with Ledley netting the opener after just three minutes.

The highly-rated midfielder, who netted the only goal in the FA Cup semi-final last season, blasted home from close range after an inswinging Whittingham corner had caused havoc in the Reds' penalty area.

The goal seemed to lift the home side and they were soon into their passing rhythm with the Barnsley midfield, who received glowing praise from their manager after their performance against QPR at the weekend, struggling to get hold of the ball.

After a quiet period in the first half City almost doubled their lead after 30 minutes but Whittingham's curling free kick was tipped round the post by Reds goalkeeper Muller.

The reprieve did not last long however as Chopra struck in the 43rd minute.

Jon Macken hauled Barnsley back into the reckoning with a goal on 62 minutes.

But Peter Whittingham put the game out of the South Yorkshiremen's reach with an 88th minute goal.
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Ian Wilkinson at 18:31:00 0
On loan winger Adam Hammill is looking to keep his place in the side to face Cardiff ahead of fit again Jamal Campbell-Ryce.

Hammill says he trusts boss Simon Davey to do the right thing when he comes to picking his side to face Cardiff and Davey himself has warned it will be difficult to change a winning side.

Campbell-Ryce and defender Darren Moore may have to do with a place on the substitutes' bench, Davey said: "Our performance on Saturday means it's very difficult for me to change the team and drop anyone.

"I would lose all respect from the players if I did that and I could not justify changing the team.

"If someone comes to me and says they are struggling then that would be different but I do not envisage any changes."
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Ian Wilkinson at 22:52:00 0
Barnsley manager Simon Davey believes his players will be hungrier than Cardiff's when the two sides meet at Ninian Park on Tuesday night.

The Tykes have won two of their last three league matches to put last month's miserable four-game losing streak behind them.

Davey said: "Cardiff City are a side going for promotion. They're a good team with some excellent players who perform in an effective way.

"We have to go there and stop that and try to get a result. I'm confident we can go there and get a win that we need more than them.

"We will look to go to Cardiff and quieten their supporters, frustrate them and come away with a victory."

ITV.com, 2 March 2009
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Ian Wilkinson at 22:35:00 0
Bobby Hassell is being linked with a move across Yorkshire at the end of the season.

Both the Owls and Leeds United are said to be monitoring the 28-year-old utility man's contract situation at Barnsley.

Signed from Mansfield in 2004, Hassell is a veteran of over 150 league games for the Reds.
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