CONOR Hourihane praised both his attacking and defensive options following Saturday's 3-1 win against Plymouth Argyle.

It was a huge win against perhaps one of the promotion favourites in League One this season and a great way to start the campaign.

Adam Phillips scored Barnsley's second with a fantastic volley from the edge of the area.

And Hourihane says there aren't many players in this league that have that sort of ability.

He said: "He's a technically outstanding footballer.

"I'm delighted for him.

"He runs with intensity at this level that not many midfielders can do.

"He can handle the ball a lot better than other midfielders at this level.

"He's a really talented footballer."

Forward Davis Keillor-Dunn scored the third for Barnsley, carrying on his fantastic form from last season.

Hourihane added: "He's a really good footballer and we're really fortunate to have him.

"It's what he does in games.

"He scores goals, sets up goals and works his socks off.

"I know this team will score goals.

"We've got goals in us there's no question about it.

"And I've worked really hard defensively over the course of pre-season."

And it wasn't just the attacking options in the side the head coach was full of praise for, he was also happy with new goalkeeper Murphy Cooper.

"We're really fortunate to have a really good goalkeeper in Murph," he said.

"He's a top guy, top 'keeper.

"He's really impressed me over pre-season.

"I made a really big point to the club that we need a good number one.

"Last year we had five goalkeepers which is no good for any squad.

"So to have Murph between the sticks I'm delighted."