http://www.barnsleyfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/BreakingNewsDetail/0,,10309~730087,00.html SOUTHEND UNITED: REDFEARN DOUBLE GIVES PROMOTION CHASING REDS A LIFT MARCH 1, 1997 SOUTHEND UNITED 1 (Thompson) BARNSLEY 2 (Redfearn 2) BARNSLEY last travelled to Roots Hall in early March 1997 as the Reds were pushing for promotion to the Premier League. It was a tight and tense game for the visiting supporters, who's spirits were lifted by Neil Redfearn's eighth minute opener. The joy was short lived however as Andy Thompson levelled for the home side just four minutes later. Barnsley were not to be denied and Redfearn netted a much-needed winner ten minutes into the second half to keep Danny Wilson's side in touch with the promotion race. The Reds finished the season in second place while Southend propped up the table and were relegated. Southend United: Royce, Harris, Dublin, McNally, Roget, Poric (Byrne 58), Gridelet, Marsh, Boere, Thomson (Rammell 62 ), Hails (Williams 78). Barnsley: Watson, Eaden, Appleby, Sheridan, Moses, De Zeeuw, Hendrie, Redfearn, Wilkinson, Jones, Bullock (Marcelle 76). Subs: Liddell, Bosancic. Attendance: 4855
look at that team... and weep Watson, Eaden, Appleby, Sheridan, Moses, De Zeeuw, Hendrie, Redfearn, Wilkinson, Jones, Bullock (Marcelle 76).
Take out (imho) DeZeeuw, Redders, Hendrie and Wilko, and that's the top quality gone. Eaden a staedy player, but the rest ? world beaters ? I'd say not. However, worked as a team, thanks to the leadership of Redders and the coaching of Wilson & Winstanley.
And what about Wilson's tactics "We're 2-1 up, my skilful but lightweight midfielder is knackered, so should I shore up the midfield and try to hold on. Nah, ballacks to that, let's bring Marcelle on and go for it." Lidell, Marcelle and Bosancic on the bench. No keeper. No defender. No holding player. Just attacking midfielders and forwards. Get in. Properly, properly, get in.
Favourite Wilson anecdote half time v Port Vale, sat in West Stand above changing rooms, heard Wilson tearing a strip off the whole side for lack of passion and desire in front of the Barnsley paying public. No crockery survived. We we're 2 nil up. Compare that to Andy one of the lads Ritchie. cant even face the players after a drubbing.
