Promotion-chasing Barnsley frustrated by referee in draw at Bristol Rovers

Barnsley’s promotion charge lost momentum in controversial circumstances as the in-form Yorkshire side were held to a 0-0 draw by Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium.

Tykes boss Michael Duff was left incensed after referee Thomas Parsons waved away striker Devante Cole’s appeals for a 60th-minute penalty as he appeared to be pulled back as he shaped to shoot on the six-yard box.

Duff vented his frustration in the direction of fourth official Gary Parsons but his protests fell on deaf ears as Barnsley were denied the chance to extend their four-match winning streak.

Gas goalkeeper James Belshaw pulled off two fine first-half saves to deny Herbie Kane and Liam Kitching while Rovers skipper Sam Finley headed Manchester City loanee Slobodan Tadic’s cross against his own bar as Barnsley turned up the pressure late on.

Impressive on-loan Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah wasted the hosts’ best chance when he shot straight at goalkeeper Harry Isted from close range as Barnsley’s unbeaten run stretched to eight games.