Daniel Stendel highlights 'big question' Barnsley FC must answer after Oxford United draw
Daniel Stendel has highlighted a ‘big question’ his Barnsley players must answer following their League One draw with Oxford United
Barnsley head coach Daniel Stendel has outlined the importance of his players finding consistency.
There were promising signs at the weekend, as the Reds dug deep to hold high-flying Oxford United to a 1-1 draw.
Stendel’s men lost defender Jack Shepherd to a red card after just nine minutes and were at a numerical disadvantage until Oxford goalkeeper Jamie Cumming was dismissed late on.
Barnsley showed admirable heart and defended well, but Stendel does not want the positivity to be fleeting.
Barnsley boss looking for consistency
“If we can do it consistently is the big question that we have to answer,” he said. “We need this feeling, this group needs the feeling.
“In the situation that we are in at the moment, you have to fight from the first minute, and it's not so easy that you get the chances to score goals.
“You have to work for that a lot, and especially when you really down on the table, you have to fight for every ball. We show everybody we work hard and the team want to do what we do in training, how hard we work, how is our plan in the game.”
Cieran Slicker’s heroics
Shepherd’s dismissal forced Stendel’s hand and he introduced defender Jubril Okedina in place of forward Tobi Adeyemo.
Okedina went to right-back, with Arley Kay moving inside to centre-back alongside Sam Gale and Ziyad Larkeche staying put at left-back.
The defensive display was strong - and aided by Cieran Slicker between the sticks. Barnsley’s on-loan Ipswich Town stopper made some crucial saves to keep Oxford at bay and landed the home club’s player of the match award.
“He made good saves and were are defending also well,” said Stendel. “I think for me it's important what the team does and it was great.
“When we need some saves from him, he was there.”