Barnsley FC Weekly Round-Up: Bellyache, Darrell’s Deflections & Devante’s Reality Check

Following Barnsley FC is rarely straightforward, and this week’s been another heady cocktail of penalty drama, off-field grumbles, and the lingering hangover from Darrell Clarke’s ill-timed public honesty session.

Throw in Devante Cole’s tough reality check at West Brom, some heartwarming efforts from club legends, and the latest episode of Steve Evans vs The EFL, and you’ve got yourself a classic week at Oakwell.

Steve Evans – Same Script, Different Opponent

If Steve Evans didn’t have a referee to blame, would he even turn up? After the South Yorkshire derby, Evans was back to doing what he does best — claiming his Rotherham side were the victims of yet another EFL conspiracy.

In fairness, Evans admitted Barnsley probably should’ve had a penalty or two themselves. But naturally, the main story was Evans’ claim that the Millers were denied a stonewall spot-kick, part of a long-running injustice that — according to him — has been dogging them all season against Reading, Blackpool, Shrewsbury, Birmingham, and now Barnsley.

It’s almost impressive how Evans can turn any result into a personal vendetta. For Barnsley, it was another afternoon where we got a result without ever fully convincing — and that’s becoming a real concern.

Source: Rotherham Advertiser

Devante Cole – Championship Reality Check

Let’s set the record straight — Devante Cole left Barnsley on a free transfer, walking away after failing to agree a new contract despite scoring 18 goals last season and playing a massive part in our promotion push.

Plenty of fans would have been happy to see him stay, and there’s no doubt he became a crucial figure at Oakwell. But when Championship football — and the wages that come with it — came calling, it’s no surprise he took the chance.

The big question was always whether Cole’s goal-scoring knack would translate at a higher level. So far, it’s been a struggle at West Brom, with goals hard to come by and the Baggies fanbase already wondering if they’ve signed the same player who thrived in League One.

It’s a reminder that sometimes player and club just fit, and when they split, the magic doesn’t always travel. No one’s rewriting history — 18 goals is 18 goals — but maybe the reality is starting to sink in for Cole too.

Source: Football League World

Former Reds Back in Business

Another former Barnsley (and West Brom) figure has resurfaced, this time taking the reins at a Championship side still in the hunt for a play-off spot.

Whether this proves to be an inspired appointment or just another spin of the managerial merry-go-round remains to be seen — but it’s always worth keeping an eye on the ex-Reds alumni. You never know when our paths might cross again.

Source: Yorkshire Post

Oakwell Legends Still Doing the Club Proud

Amid all the drama, some proper feel-good news emerged this week, as a group of Barnsley legends came together to raise thousands for a local hospice.

It’s a reminder — especially in an era where football can feel increasingly detached from its communities — that this club’s heart still beats strongly. Once a Red, always a Red.

Source: Barnsley Chronicle

Darrell Clarke – Timing Is Everything

Then there’s Darrell Clarke — who decided this was the perfect week to air his frustrations about Barnsley’s home form. He’s not wrong — Oakwell has been a problem all season, and ten away wins should have us higher than we are. But reading the room isn’t exactly his strong suit.

Fans have witnessed every misplaced pass, every baffling substitution, and every game where the opposition looked more comfortable than us at Oakwell. So hearing Clarke essentially lay the blame squarely at the players’ feet — right before a crucial fixture — hasn’t gone down well.

We’re all for honesty, but there’s a time and a place. Save it for the post-match pressers, Darrell — preferably after a home win, if you fancy one of those anytime soon. It’s not like Clarke’s own tactical choices have been flawless either. Maybe next week, let’s have a bit more positivity.

Source: Barnsley Chronicle

Final Whistle

A week that sums up life at Barnsley — some fight, some frustration, and plenty of moments that make you question your own sanity.

Steve Evans is still ranting, Devante Cole is learning that life in the Championship isn’t so simple, and Darrell Clarke is struggling to keep the mood upbeat when we need it most. Meanwhile, the fans just want to see a home performance that doesn’t feel like a trip to the dentist.

The play-offs are still in reach — just about. If Clarke’s comments were meant to spark a reaction, we’ll soon find out whether they’ve lit a fire or just poured petrol on the wrong flames.