Conor Hourihane was enthusiastic after his first home game as Barnsley’s interim head coach ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw against Cambridge.
A stoppage-time equaliser from Jonathan Lewis rescued a point for the hosts after United took an early lead through James Brophy.
And the late drama ensured the Tykes halted a run of three straight defeats in League One.
Hourihane said: “It’s good how we finished. We kept at it and kept going, which is pleasing.
“Full credit, in my opinion, goes to the academy lads. It was refreshing to see – they excited me – but we need to see more from the older lads, and I’ve told them that.
“The early goal kills the match plan in terms of they sat back and they’ve got something to hold on to. It’s a poor goal from our point of view to give away.
“Ninety per cent of the crowd stayed behind afterwards and clapped because they had a bit of a go at the end. I’ve just told the lads in there that’s the effort they want to see.”
Barnsley’s equaliser came when Fabio Jalo crossed for fellow substitute Lewis.
Hourihane added: “Brilliant for Jon. Credit to him for being there and attacking the back stick.
“Top-class delivery from Fab. An opportunity has come along, and they have both taken it.”
Cambridge head coach Neil Harris was frustrated at the concession of the late goal that left his side 12 points adrift of safety with eight games to go, but was proud of his side’s display.
He said: “We were so close, weren’t we? I’ve just said to the players that I don’t need to go in and rant to them or to you guys. I’m not going to criticise the players today. Outstanding.
“We played with real structure and discipline. We set them up to be different and counter-attack.
We scored a really good goal and could have got a second before half time. But it just shows if you don’t get that second and third goal when you get the chance, it comes back to bite you.
“I didn’t feel any danger, other than the clock – there was no danger that they were going to score against us.
“It hurts, and it’s a real blow for the group and the fans that have travelled, but there is so much to be proud of in the performance.
“Barnsley had more of the ball, but it was just sideways and backwards. In terms of opportunities on goal, we were miles in front.
“It looked like a game that we were just going to see out, and if anything, nick the second goal. There was so much to admire about the performance.
“Wherever we find ourselves in the league, we will have a right go in every game that we play.”
