Sunday, April 20, 2008

Sixteen Not Out

Barrow AFC’s 2-0 win over Tamworth, on Saturday, saw the Blue Square North side extend their unbeaten run to 16 games, prolonging a remarkable run of form.

Their superb run stretches back to the start of February, and has seen Barrow, who play at Holker Street, take 40 points from a possible 48. This means that they are currently the most in-form team in the country.

The North West side’s last defeat came on the 26th of January, in a 3-1 defeat at home to Stalybridge Celtic. Since then they have disposed of 12 teams and drawn with four including, the newly crowned Blue Square North champions, Kettering Town.

Their 22 year-old goalkeeper, Tim Deasy says that the good run is down to the togetherness of the squad.

“I think the main reason (behind the run) is the confidence and belief in each other, we are a small, but very close, squad on and off the field.

“The passion to win in the squad is unbelievable and second to none and only the best is now good enough.

“Everybody’s standards have been set so high now that nothing less is expected by the players, the club and the fans.”

Deasy also believes that the support of the Holker Street faithful has been a key component in putting together this outstanding run of form.

“This club has an amazing fan base. To take hundreds of fans to away games, at times, is staggering in this league. The fans deserve their club to be in the highest league possible.”

Deasy’s role in the team’s recent success has not gone unnoticed by the fans. The young custodian has produced a series of delightful performances, pulling off a string of outstanding saves.

The Salford born keeper, who has also developed a reputation for being a penalty specialist, has quickly become a crowd favourite in his first season with the Bluebirds.

“I love to please the fans with good performances and can only ask to be stood by when things occasionally go wrong.

“My main attribute is shot stopping and I enjoy the psychological side of penalties as I like to think I can make a player put the ball where I want it.

“I hope the fans can see the passion i have to win for this club and that may be a reason why they have taken to me.”

Barrow now lie in 4th, in contention for a play-off place and, the forever confident and ambitious, Deasy reckons the team can build on this form for next season.

“If, unfortunately, we do not go up this year, a top 3 finish is all that can be expected for next year as we have shown that this is not a slice of luck.

“We are in this position for one reason; we are good enough to be playing in a higher league.

“If we do get into the conference next season, I think the club needs to establish themselves in that league, not just staying up by the skin of their teeth.

“A mid table finish would be good and anything higher would be excellent. If we get into the football league then it will be a season to remember!”

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