Barnsley 0 Wycombe Wanderers 0

Last updated : 24 February 2004 By Footymad Previewer

Barnsley's promotion hopes were dealt a severe blow as they failed to overcome bottom-of-the-table Wycombe in a goalless draw at Oakwell Gudjon Thordarson's team have struggled to chalk up home victories all season - and their misery continued as a dogged Wycombe side defended well to register their fifth draw in a row.

Barnsley have made a number of changes in recent weeks, with new signings and loan deals, and their team play left much to be desired in a very subdued first half.

The one bright spark appeared to be young striker Daniel Nardiello, on loan from Manchester United, who almost broke the deadlock in the ninth minute when he was played in down the right. He managed to clip the ball over advancing keeper Frank Talia but Wycombe full-back Danny Senda got back to clear from almost on the line.

The visitors, without an away win all season, rarely threatened the three-man Barnsley back line, although on 15 minutes lone forward Nathan Tyson produced a good turn on the edge of the box and sent a fierce left-footer flashing just wide.

Mark Stallard, a recent acquisition from Notts County, produced a great turn in the Wycombe box but he slipped in the act of shooting, while Craig Ireland's follow-up effort was bravely blocked by Danny Bulman.

Barnsley's frustrations grew as the match wore on. Alex Neil brought a magnificent one-handed save from Talia with a 55th minute free-kick, before an excellent move saw Nardiello send a header crashing against the underside of the bar. The effort wouldn't have counted for the flag was up for off-side.

Fans favourite Dean Gorre was introduced in the 70th minute, just behind the front two.

And he almost won the game for Barnsley five minutes from time when he wriggled his way through but saw his close range shot smartly saved by the impressive Talia.