Daniel Stendel didn’t get what he expected against Sunderland

Barnsley hosted fellow League One promotion-chasers Sunderland at Oakwell on Tuesday. 

Despite it being a fiercely contested match, with plenty of quality and creativity on display, it ultimately ended goalless, so both sides earned a single point each. 

This result is a greater disappointment for the Tykes, who will have been desperate to capitalise upon their home advantage in order to pull away from the Black Cats in the race for automatic promotion. However, whilst Daniel Stendel’s side remain above Sunderland in the table, there is just four points between them with the Wearside outfit holding a game in hand.


Barnsley are still in the driving seat though and Stendel will know that it is vital that his squad retains its composure.

What he said

Following the 0-0 draw, as quoted by ClubCall, the German coach said: “It was a closer game than we expected.

“The goal was to win, but we are satisfied…In the last minutes we tried to win, but we could not score. A draw for both teams is okay.”

Keep calm

There is still plenty of football left to be played in this campaign, and Barnsley still have every chance of securing promotion, so long as they keep their heads.

The failure to win last night was a disappointment and a setback, but by sending this calm message out to the squad and fans, Stendel is seeking to ensure that everyone remains relaxed and focused heading into the all-important run in.