by Rich Colby

You can’t beat a South Yorkshire derby under the floodlights, and that’s exactly what is in store tonight as Doncaster Rovers make the short trip to Oakwell to face Barnsley.

Without tempting fate, Paul Dickov’s men seem to be on the rise at the moment with just one defeat in the last six games in all competitions.  Rovers will be looking for that continuity tonight.  League one is as tight as ever and a run of good results over the December period could propel Rovers up to the top end of the table.

Barnsley currently lie one place above Rovers with only goal difference separating the two teams.  The Tykes will be looking to reverse their latest form too after losing their last couple of games by the odd goal. Rovers will have to break past former shot stopper Ross Turnbull if they want the points at Oakwell, as well as keeping out a man who I’m sure would love a goal more than anyone tonight – Marcello Trotta.

Paul Dickov has no fresh injury concerns with only Cedric Evina set to miss out.  After Rovers more consistent form of late the side will likely remain close to unchanged.

Rovers haven’t tasted victory at Barnsley since March 2010 when a James Coppinger goal was the difference between the two teams.  I’m sure we’d settle for the same tonight.  The last time the teams faced each other in February this year at the Keepmoat Stadium, they played out a very entertaining 2-2 draw.

Come on you reds!

Overall record v Barnsley:  P 70/W 25/D 22/L 23