Reds Reserves’ impressive winning sequence against their Holker Street counterparts came to a disappointing end on Thursday evening in two contrasting forty-five minute sessions.

They were bright, inventive, passed the ball well, defended confidently and definitely shaded the first half but they disintegrated after the break and looked a sorry outfit by the finish as Barrow romped to an emphatic victory.

Lee McCullough (pictured) carved out the first chance, after cleverly creating space for himself, only to pull his shot wide of the  target but the same player did put Reds ahead with just ten minutes on the clock.

And if the Reserves score a better goal this season I hope I’m there to see it.  Goalkeeper James Bryden quickly released the ball to Nick Holden wide on the right.  He made rapid progress into the Barrow half before finding McCullough with the perfect pass.  Lee, grandson of former Reds’ chairman, Arthur, advanced on goal before driving into the bottom corner leaving the Barrow ‘keeper helpless.

Greg Mitchell was off target with another effort while Stefan Scott was twice thwarted by Tom Fairclough in the home goal.

To underline Reds’ dominance in the first half, the corner count was 6-2 in their favour.

Within three minutes of the restart, though, Richie Doughty equalised for Barrow and the whole complexion of the game changed.

Reds held out for another twenty minutes but once substitute Adze Danboyi had put the hosts in front the outcome was never really in doubt despite Stefan Scott going close within seconds of the kick-off.

Another Barrow substitute, Jordan Rayner, scored the third  and fourth goals in the final ten minutes to leave Reds somewhat demoralised.

McCullough and Dan McDermott were probably Reds’ best on a night when Andrew Rowntree returned to the fold.

Lee Woodyatt played for Barrow as he continues his rehabilitation following a broken leg last summer.

Reds had won their previous eight league and cup games against the Bluebirds, a notable achievement, but were second best last night.

Team:  Bryden (Charters), Rossi, Mitchell, Jackson, McDermott, Lee, Scott, McCullough, Andrew Rowntree, Roberts, Holden (Johnson)

Crowd:  22