Barnsley recorded their first opening day win in seven years as Keith Hill’s men comfortably beat Middlesbrough 1-0 at Oakwell on Saturday.

A Craig Davies strike just before the break sealed the points for the Reds, who dominated the 90 minutes. The score could have been more severe had it not been for visiting ‘keeper Jason Steele, who made a string of impressive second half saves.

Hill’s Barnsley looked organised, full of energy and were far different to the side that narrowly avoided relegation last season following a disappointing post-January slump.

Davies and strike partner Marlon Harewood were threatening, while David Perkins won everything in midfield and will no doubt be invaluable to the Barnsley cause again this season.

At the back, young full-back John Stones again impressed, as did Scott Golbourne, while Scott Wiseman, playing his first game for the Reds at centre-half, had one of his best games in Barnsley colours.

Hill said: "It’s a great start and a better feeling than we had at this time last year. There was no fear today. Middlesbrough are an excellent side but we deserved the win.

"On another day Craig Davies would be walking away with the hat-trick ball but their ‘keeper has made some amazing saves.

"Hopefully we’ll see more goals like the one we scored today at Oakwell this season.”