BARNSLEY 2 TRANMERE 0
VALERIEN ISMAEL admitted his in-form Barnsley side were forced to battle to see off League Two Tranmere and claim a fourth-round spot.
Michal Helik’s secondhalf header (above) set the Championship club on course for victory before Cauley Woodrow wrapped things up with a penalty in added time.
But it took a super save from Tykes keeper Brad Collins – in only his fourth game of the season – to deny Rovers striker James Vaughan immediately before the break and prevent Keith Hill’s side from taking the lead.
Tykes boss Ismael said: “It was time for Brad to play in goal to show his quality and he made a brilliant save.
“It was a tough game, I’m happy that we’re through and it was a great afternoon for us.
“We changed in the second half and tried to become more clinical and I think we controlled the half.” Centre-back Helik headed home from Herbie Kane’s cross and Woodrow claimed his 11th goal of the season from the spot after being brought down.
Tranmere manager Hill believes the performance will provide a platform for the rest of his side’s season.
He said: “I thought the players showed magnificent bravery against a Barnsley side who went strong.
“We went with a depleted squad because of Covid-19.
“But our mindset was always to play the game and I thought the players responded superbly well.
“The effort was outstanding and it leaves me with a positive sense for the remaining league games.”