Conor Hourihane said he was delighted with Barnsley’s 3-1 win at near neighbours Rotherham United, particularly for the away fans.
The Reds ended a six-match winless run and moved seven points clear of the League One relegation zone.
Hourihane told the Chronicle: “I knew coming into the game how important it was for me, the players, the noise around the club. The lads stood up and produced a performance which was well worthy of the win which was pleasing for everyone.”
He added: “I am delighted for the fans. We all know we needed to win and give them something to shout about. Me and the players haven’t given the fans enough to shout about this season - I am fully aware of that. We’ve have some poor derby results particularly recently. The fans had the heartache of losing at home to Rotherham. I have not given them enough moments like this to cheer about. Over everything, I am most pleased for the fans.”
Adam Phillips opened the scoring late in the first half then Tom Bradshaw added two before a late consolation.
Hourihane said: “I thought we were really, really good and it was a big one for everyone. We could have been winning by more in the first half if we tidied up the ball a bit. On the ball we were a little bit loose but when we tidied up the ball in the second half, we created loads of chances.
“We were just waiting for the lead which is easier said than done but when we got in front we looked really strong. I asked the lads in the second half to give a bit more, be cleaner and we will be in. We showed a couple of moments of quality.”
Phillips returned to the 11 and was made captain then scored the opener.
Hourihane said: “I asked Phillo for a real proper Adam Phillips one of the best players in the league performance. He’s been a little bit inconsistent of late. He paid me back in abundance. He was outstanding. He was pressing constantly and got his goal. He set the tone. Maybe making him captain gave him five or ten per cent extra.”
Tom Bradshaw set up the first goal then scored the next ten, his first goals in ten games.
“I am delighted for Bradders. He’s come in and maybe not got plaudits and the goals return but he works his backside off. He is relentless in his pressing, his duels and he’s one of those players he probably doesn’t get credit.
“To get a couple of goals in front of a good away following, I was really happy for him. In house we’re all saying how hard he works.”
The hosts scored a penalty late on for a foul by Eoghan O’Connell, meaning the Reds have not kept a clean sheet for a club record 26 games within one season.
“I couldn’t give a toss about the clean sheet because we all needed to win.
"Secondly, never a pen. I don’t want to go into it but are we ever going to get a penalty? Ever? It is what it is.”
David McGoldrick missed the game with a hamstring injury and could return at Port Vale on Tuesday, as could Luca Connell who did not play after his partner gave birth last night.
