After a reasonable first half display, Rovers did not turn up for the second period and deservedly lost the game. Frustrating, as we could have at least forced a replay in this game, even with the absentees: Barrow were competitive and organised, but nothing special.
At the kick off we set up in a 4-5-1, with Duggan on one side, Tollitt on the other. Barrow started the game brightly, looking a team full of confidence and on a good run, and certainly a much better side than the team we beat in August. In the first fifteen minutes we were under the cosh and the goal for the home side, while coming from a contentious free kick, was not a surprise. However, Rovers responded well to the setback and enjoyed a period of twenty minutes of sustained pressure. We did not create a great deal in this spell - Cook was far too isolated up front - but we played some reasonable football and the equaliser, however fortuitous, was deserved. Our three men in midfield began to control the game in this period, and while Barrow had a considerable threat from set plays, we were playing more football.
At half time I felt quite comfortable, but for the second period Mellon made a tactical change, replacing Harris with Kirby and going 4-4-2. I can understand why he made the switch, as Cook had no support and we did not have a great threat in the final third. However, after the change to a midfield two we lost control in the middle of the pitch and our back four came under sustained pressure. The second half was largely dominated by Barrow, with Rovers guilty of giving the ball away far too cheaply, failing to win individual physical battles and offering virtually zero attacking threat, at least until Stephenson came on with fifteen minutes to go. I would not criticise Mellon for being brave and making a change, but I think the 4-5-1 formation suited us more today given the opposition, our current form and the players we had missing.
It was generally a day to forget but there were a few positives. Duggan did ok again, and Stephenson looked lively when he came on, and should probably start next week if Norwood is unavailable. I was also pleased that Mellon made tactical switches at half time and during the game, even if they were not all successful. I was even more impressed by the constant advice and encouragement Mellon and Jackson gave to the players from the touchline, in marked contrast to Brabin. Micky also acknowledged the Rovers fans before and after the game.
Plenty of food for thought for the manager, but once the injured players return and he gets familiar with the squad, I think we will be ok.
