MIKE TURNER, who was playing non-League football only a few weeks ago, came off the substitutes' bench to inspire Barnsley to a well-deserved victory over fellow promotion contenders Ipswich.

Ipswich boast the tightest defence in the First Division but they were no match for the hard-running and enthusiasm of the Yorkshire team.

Turner, who was spotted playing for Bilston Town and signed for a small fee, was introduced to the action in the 65th minute, replacing Deon Burton, the striker on loan from Derby.

Turner made his mark within four minutes, riding a tackle by Ipswich's Manuel Thetis before pulling back a pass for Sean McClaire to place his shot beyond goalkeeper Richard Wright.

Turner clinched the points in injury time, taking his goal well after the chance had been created by Darren Barnard on the left flank.

It was an impressive performance by Barnsley. They defended with great resolve and their marking was so tight that Ipswich's attack had little room for manoeuvre.

Ipswich's cause was not helped when their leading scorer, James Scowcroft, had to be taken off on a stretcher after a sickening but accidental collision with Barnsley goalkeeper Tony Bullock.

As Barnsley grew in confidence they might have had more goals but Bruce Dyer put a good chance wide in the 70th minute and Craig Hignett did the same after the former set up the chance for him.

A big blow then to Ipswich's hopes of returning to the Premiership but another scalp for Barnsley, who had beaten Sunderland and Huddersfield in recent weeks.

Barnsley should have gone in front after only four minutes when Bruce Dyer's throughball set Hignett free in the area. Wright raced out to challenge but Hignett rounded him and struck the ball towards an open goal, only to see Ipswich midfielder Matt Holland clear off the line.

Ipswich, relieved at this let-off, hit back and it required an excellent tackle by central defender Matty Appleby to dispossess Kieron Dyer as the youngster raced into the area.

Barnsley had another chance in the 22nd minute when Burton made ground down the right before crossing. But, as Bruce Dyer steadied himself to shoot, the danger was cleared by Thetis.

Samassi Abou, the striker on loan from West Ham, missed Ipswich's best chance, heading Mark Venus's free-kick wide at the far post.

Daily Telegraph