A goalless draw with Gloucester City in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round on Tuesday halted Barrow's momentum. The stalemate at the KMM Energy Stadium ended the Bluebirds' run of four consecutive victories across all competitions, a sequence that has seen them climb to 8th in the National League with 21 points from 13 games, comprising six wins, three draws and four losses.
Adam Murray's side dominated possession and created several chances but could not find a way past a resolute Gloucester defence. Rekeem Harper thought he had scored his sixth goal in as many games early in the second half, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside. Harper had scored from the penalty spot in their last league outing, a 2-1 win at Tamworth on Saturday 10 October. Substitute Mikey Lane was sent off late on after picking up two yellow cards, the second for an apparent dive in the penalty area.
"It was a frustrating afternoon against opponents two steps lower in the non-league pyramid," said manager Adam Murray.
The result means Barrow must travel to New Meadow Park for a replay on Tuesday evening to decide who progresses to the first round proper. The National League side, who sit eighth in the table with 21 points from 13 games, will look to rediscover their scoring touch quickly. Their league campaign has been built on a potent attack, having scored 22 goals while conceding 16, giving them a goal difference of plus six.
Despite the setback, Barrow's overall form remains strong, with four wins and a draw from their last five matches. This unbeaten run includes league victories over Tamworth, Wealdstone, Scunthorpe and Southend. They have scored 22 goals in the league this season, the fourth-highest tally in the division. The replay against a Gloucester side unbeaten in their last five presents a clear opportunity to get back to winning ways and keep their cup dreams alive. Attention will then turn to their next league fixture at home to Forest Green on Saturday 24 October, where they will aim to close the 14-point gap to leaders Boreham Wood.
