MIDFIELDER Adam Phillips says the team spirit that Barnsley showed in their 3-1 win against Plymouth on Saturday is a testament to the work they've put in on the training ground.

The Reds went 2-0 up before half-time thanks to a sublime volley on the edge of the area from Phillips.

And he says he will always back himself when he finds himself in positions like that.

He said: "I like to pick up that position.

"I see the ball getting crossed into the box and I see the defenders sometimes are going to win the headers.

"I back myself, I know I have the ability.

"It's nice to get off the mark first game of the season.

"I'm looking forward to carrying it on into the season."

The Reds looked fairly comfortable in the first half but went down to ten men when Jack Shepherd received a second yellow card.

Phillips said: "It wouldn't be Barnsley without drama.

"It was a brilliant three points.

"We knew coming down here that it was going to be tough.

"They've got a lot of quality.

"I thought we started the game really well.

"It was a shame for Shep to be sent off but I felt like the lads dug in together.

"It's great to show that team spirit early on.

"It's a really big boost for us all."

The Reds were backed by 888 fans who had made the long journey to the south coast - and he's glad they were able to travel back in good spirits.

He said: "The fans have come down in their numbers.

"I'm sure they've had a nice day out.

"But to send a message to them that the lads are grafting and want to fight for the badge.

"We aren't going to get too excited but it gives us a benchmark to work off."