Exeter City were left to rue a slow start as Barnsley claimed a 2–1 victory at Oakwell, despite a spirited second-half response from the Grecians.
The hosts struck twice early in the first half through David McGoldrick and Vimal Yoganathan, putting City on the back foot before a fan protest briefly halted the game. Jayden Wareham’s late goal ensured Exeter finished strongly, but it proved only a consolation as Barnsley held on for the points.
Barnsley made a fast start and went ahead after just eight minutes when McGoldrick was left unmarked inside the penalty area. The experienced striker calmly slotted past Joe Whitworth after being picked out by Reyes Cleary.
City had little time to recover before the home side doubled their advantage eight minutes later. This time McGoldrick turned provider, delivering a cross that Yoganathan met with a header to put Barnsley firmly in control.
Midway through the first half the match was briefly stopped when home supporters threw tennis balls onto the pitch as part of a protest against the club’s ownership.
Exeter improved after the break and gradually worked their way back into the contest, although clear chances were limited as Barnsley defended their lead.
With 15 minutes remaining, the Grecians found a way back into the game. Wareham continued his impressive season by firing home his 16th goal from inside the area to set up a tense finale.
City pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Barnsley held firm to secure the three points, moving themselves up to 12th in the League One table while leaving Exeter in 15th.
