Opinion
Opposition view: Jury is still out on new Barnsley boss following away defeats
Barnsley head coach Jose Morais with star striker Oli McBurnie, who is on loan from Swansea. Picture: PA/Martin Rickett - Credit: PA Wire/PA Images
Ahead of this evening's rearranged fixture at Oakwell, Norfolk-based Barnsley fan William Yeomans provides some insight from the Tykes camp after two losses on the bounce.
Defender Liam Lindsay, tackling Josh Murphy during Barnsley's 1-1 draw at Carrow Road in November, has been among the Tykes' best performers this season. Picture by Paul Chesterton/Focus Images - Credit: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd
What are your early impressions of recently appointed head coach Jose Morais?
Jury is still out, the first game 2-1 loss to Burton was disappointing especially the first half display. Improvements since although the 2-0 win at Birmingham was against a side in poor form. Good battling point against Hull although the team became too defensive after going 1-0 up. The last two games have been away to Cardiff (losing 2-1) and Middlesbrough (a 3-1 defeat) – difficult games. Both were slow starts but we played better when 2-0/3-0 down!
Has he made many obvious changes in his first five games?
Morais has recently gone for three up front with some 'first' choice players sidelined.
Swansea striker Oli McBurnie seems to have made a big impact since joining on loan, just how good is he?
Always has a goal in him. Great acquisition and should have been with the team in the previous transfer window as we have been lacking a 25-goal-a-season forward. Has scored five in seven so far.
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Which other players have performed well this season?
Liam Lindsay has been a quality acquisition (from Partick), especially after losing so many good defensive players.
And which players have disappointed?
The forwards have disappointed prior to the transfer window as we were short of goals Also (former head coach) Paul Heckingbottom for leaving at a key point in the season and to go to a rival in Leeds, although understand the move to increase his wages.
Have you been surprised that this season has become a relegation battle?
Having supported Barnsley for 36 years – most seasons are a relegation battle in the Championship!
Paul Heckingbottom's side looked good at Carrow Road, do you see tonight as one you should be winning?
Barnsley were the better side at Carrow Road but happy with a 1-1 after previous run of defeats and still '80 years of hurt at Carrow Road' (last win 1937). With a four-point gap to the teams above us and a run of three home games we need to start winning and tonight would be a good opportunity.
Any players in the Norwich squad you are wary of?
James Maddison, obviously, and Nelson Oliveira cutting in from the flank and shooting from 25 yards.
And lastly, what is your prediction for the game?
Obviously 2-1 to Barnsley, with three penalties!
• Do you know an opposition fan who would like to feature? Get in touch with us via email on norfolksport@archant.co.uk
