Barrow AFC manager Mark Cooper. Picture: joshjdss

Barrow boss Mark Cooper has not been surprised by Mansfield’s surge up the League Two table into the play-off positions.

Assessing tomorrow’s opponents the Bluebirds’ manager said: “When we played them earlier I said it would just be a question of time until they got their players back and would climb the table.

“They have a good manager and a good squad and the run they have been on has not surprised me. They have won nine out of ten, which is an incredible run.”

But Cooper insists his players won’t be overawed by the Stags tomorrow and is looking forward to a good game in front of a good crowd, who can really get behind the home side.

“They will have looked at us and know they are in for a test. The players have all been lifted by last week’s away win, we are getting more people back and fit to play and have been playing well without the results we would have liked.

“We are into the second half of the season now and I like to think that we can put a winning run together and start making progress ourselves,” he says.

Cooper happy with transfer business

Cooper says he’s happy with the business he’s done in the transfer window, recruiting three players on loan from Sunderland, Burnley and Leicester.

“I’m pleased with the players that have come in and I don’t think there will be anything else done before the end of the transfer window,” he said.

Barrow are expecting a big crowd for the visit of a Mansfield side which tops the League Two form table.

Officials have mapped out a Make Some Noise campaign, which starts tomorrow and is aimed at pumping up the atmosphere on matchdays.

General Manager Alisha Henry said: “We’ve teamed up with our friends at The Townhouse 211 to give away flags and clappers.

“Items will be laid out on selected seats in the Main Stand ahead of kick-off on Saturday and will also be available from the Club Shop.

“We want the matchday to be a really memorable experience for young fans and also make a fortress atmosphere at The Dunes Hotel Stadium.

“We want as many fans as possible to get involved with the flags and clappers and really Make Some Noise to get behind the lads from the first whistle this weekend!”