Talking points from Scarborough friendly

Second half better than the first 

When Barnsley scored inside the first minute through the impressive Leo Farrell, it seemed the Reds would be on for an enjoyable afternoon. However, it is fair to say they were second best for the rest of the first 45, with Scarborough creating some big chances and forcing Rogan Ravenhill into some good saves. The same defensive issues seemed to persist from last season, although it wasn’t Barnsley’s strongest defence. The second half was better, with Barnsley looking more stable at the back and restricting the Seadogs to fewer chances. Defensively, Barnsley looked better after O’Keefe and Shepherd were replaced by youngsters Woodcock and Rayner at the interval, which highlighted the need for more defensive reinforcements this transfer window. Noah Town took his goal well in the second half, which capped off a great performance after assisting Farrell for his goal.  

Academy lads do well 

All the academy players who played at Scarborough did well, with none of them putting a foot wrong and they battled hard against the sixth-tier outfit. It was a mix of academy players and first teamers in the squad, due to Barnsley's strongest XI playing against Scunthorpe in a behind closed friendly the day before, winning 3-2. 

Forwards look decent 

Going forward, Barnsley’s attackers caused problems against Scarborough, although they should be against National League North opposition. Leo Farrell has scored against Scunthorpe and Scarborough in back-to-back friendlies and looks like a player who should be involved with the first team on a consistent basis next season. Described as a mobile target man, this was evident as he brought the ball down on a few occasions and brought others into play, while also making some good runs and taking his goal well. Charlie Lennon went on a few driving runs throughout the game on the left, whilst Reyes Cleary, who played on the right, showed his great dribbling ability and came close to scoring a few times later in the match.