On an emotional night at Holker Street, Barrow made progress in the Carabao Cup with a 3-2 win against Port Vale.
Fans had just heard of the death of former chairman Brian Keen, the man regarded as the saviour of the Bluebirds at their most difficult time.
Life president of the club, Mr Keen spearheaded the consortium of local businessmen which saved the club from extinction in 1989.
The club said: “Brian was always a true gentleman who touched the lives of many here at Holker Street and he will certainly be missed by all of us here at Barrow AFC. All of the thoughts of everyone here at Barrow are with Brian’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Players held a minute’s silence and all wore a black armband.
Barrow served up the kind of performance which would have delighted Brian, coming from 2-1 down to win the tie.
They had gone ahead in the first minute when the Vale could not clear a long throw from Rory Feely and Ged Garner made them pay with a low finish.
Summer recruit Ruari Paton levelled for the visitors on 26 minutes when he fired in a stunning free kick which gave home keeper Paul Farman no chance.
It stayed that way until half-time but in the second period the Bluebirds started brightly and there were chances created, but not taken, by Dean Campbell and the lively Katia Kouyate.
It was against the run of play when Port Vale went in front on 66 minutes with a splendid finish from 20 yards by substitute full-back Tom Sang.
Barrow boss Steven Clemence responded with a double change and one of them Emile Acquah was soon in the action. He cleverly slalomed his way between defenders before getting away a shot which Vale goalkeeper Ben Amos held onto.
But Acquah was soon back for more and he got his side level on 70 minutes when he was able to apply the finishing touches to a dangerous cross from full-back Ben Jackson.
It was Jackson who was to emerge as the match winner when he curled home a fine effort from outside the box on 76 minutes.
