Barnsley's Sam Eaden cast his eye over what was a productive 2023/24 campaign for Barnsley U21s, who recorded a third place finish in the Professional Development League, narrowly missing out on the end of season play-offs by a solitary point. Several players in the squad had tasted success with the Reds’ U18s side the previous term as they were crowned national champions after beating Charlton Athletic on penalties following a dramatic final at Oakwell.
The youngsters’ success at academy level has also been rewarded with minutes in the first team, with Aaron Atkinson, Jonathan Bland, Theo Chapman, Josiah Dyer, Charlie Hickingbottom, Nathan James, Fabio Jalo, Jean Claude Makiessi, Aiden Marsh, Harrison Nejman, Emmaisa Nzondo, Hayden Pickard, Jack Shepherd and Vimal Yoganathan all featuring for the senior side.
On the international stage, 
Dyer is now a full international for Monserrat and scored on his debut against Barbados back in November, while Jalo is a regular for Portugal U19s and both Bland and Yoganathan have represented Wales at youth level. Teaming up with this exciting brand of youngsters, several first teamers are also expected to make the trip to the Northolme this evening, and we look forward to welcoming this side to our place, as the Holy Blues ramp up to the season opener.
Programme
The Pre-Season programme will once again be available for the Barnsley game. Stocks have been replenished, to enable anyone that couldn't get one at the Scunthorpe game, to have another opportunity. A programme that includes a Henrich Ravas interview and images from our new Official Photographer, there's plenty to keep you interested, no matter who you support! Available at £2.50 on the gate, please support the printed programme and grab your copy at the ground!
Tickets
The game will not be segregated, allowing home and away supporters to mingle in comfort. Tickets are both available to purchase online, or at the ground, but we do encourage people to book online to avoid the queues at the turnstiles. The turnstiles are open from 18:30, with kick off at 19:30. We ask that you arrive early, to ensure things run smoothly! Ticket prices are set at £10 adults, £6 concessions and £2 U16s. There is a reduction for those of you who have purchased 2024/25 Gainsborough Trinity Season Tickets, entitling you to 50% cheaper prices on the gate.
Preview written by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Photos by Bryan Pye (@brypyephotography)