What Barnsley FC's Michael Duff had to say about James Norwood, Jack Aitchison and Ziyad Larkeche after League One win

After three successive defeats for the first time under his watch, in all competitions, the Reds got back on track and raced into a 3-0 lead inside 20 minutes courtesy of a spectacular acrobatic opener from Norwood and further goals from Aitchison and Jordan Williams to end the game as a competitive contest.

Duff, whose sixth-placed side visit Exeter in League One on Tuesday night, said: “I thought we were good. Even in the second half, we created numerous chances. I thought we were good last week as well.

"The difference is when you take your chances, the way the game plays out is completely different.

“You can’t ask for much more than being 3-0 up after 18 or 19 minutes.”

Duff restored Norwood to the starting line-up in place of Devante Cole and the performance of the former Ipswich striker fully justified that decision, with the experienced frontman having the measure of Accrington’s backline all game and leading the line superbly.

Duff continued: “That is probably the best we have seen him. The most pleasing thing from my point of view is that the ball stuck. It gave us a platform to get up the pitch and create better chances.

“I don’t think it’s an accident that the ball stuck up front and then the two centre-forwards scored two goals.

“He trained really well in the week and that’s why he got the nod. I was really pleased.”

The display of Aitchison, who scored his first goal at Oakwell, was also commended by Duff.

The Scot, who missed a couple of games over Christmas due to personal reasons, found the net for the first time since.

Duff said: “He looked like he enjoyed it. Jack gives us loads of different things. He links it well and is a different type of forward. Out of possession he is excellent; it’s not why you pick your centre-forwards.

"But I was really pleased for him. He’s had a tough couple of weeks, but he has come in and kept his head down.

“He’s found himself out of the squad at times. But if you train properly, you always give yourself a chance.”

The only blemish to an encouraging day arrived in stoppage-time with late substitute Ziyad Larkeche giving away a penalty, with Tommy Leigh scoring with the last kick of the game for Stanley.

Duff continued: “I am not bothered about the last goal. I have told Ziyad I will take responsibility for that.

“Did we have to put him on? No. But the way he trains and drives standards, he deserves some minutes on the pitch.

“Ultimately, and it was unfortunate for him, as a defender when you are 3-0 up, all you do is come on and make a mistake. So I have told him that I will take responsibility for that and you have to be concentrated all the time.

“But that was just a little reward for the way he drives training what people don’t see.

“Yes, it is frustrating we don’t keep a clean sheet, but the intent from the first minute and the 46th minute was good.”