Barrow came close to an FA Cup upset at Wigan before eventually losing a penalty shootout.
Trailing 1-0 at the break they fought back to lead 2-1 only to be pegged back in the last minute to take it to extra time.
It was the second time this season that Wigan have been taken to penalties by a side from a lower level.
Wigan had taken the lead on 13 minutes when skipper James Carragher was at the far post to head home a Fraser Murray corner.
Barrow had rarely been dangerous in the first-half but they lifted their game after the break and they were deservedly back on terms after 65 minutes.
Jack Earing got to the near post quickest to turn in a cross from Ben Whitfield and give the Bluebirds the momentum.
They could have gone in front when Charlie Raglan got in close and home keeper Sam Tickle had to make a fine point blank save.
It was no surprise, though, when Barrow’s determination and new-found confidence got them a second goal five minutes from the end.
Charlie McCann’s corner was met by Niall Canavan and his header went in off the underside of the bar.
But it was a header, too, that put Wigan level in the last minute as Will Aimson headed home a Callum McManaman cross.
There could have been even more drama but Scoot Smith, a former Wigan player, had a stoppage time shot brilliantly saved by Tickle.
The best effort in extra time came from McCann but his well-drilled shot flew just wide.
In the subsequent penalty shootout Wigan did not miss with their first four but for Barrow, Ben Jackson’s spot kick was saved by Tickle and MJ Williams could only hit the bar from his attempt.
- Carlisle play their tie at Blackpool on today, Sunday, December 7, 5.30pm kick-off.
