Ben Jackson scores winner to send Barrow into League Cup second round

Barrow progressed to the second round of the Carabao Cup following an impressive 3-2 win over League Two rivals Port Vale at Holker Street.

An outstanding curling finish from Ben Jackson in the 77th minute capped off a second-half turnaround to fire Stephen Clemence’s side into the next round where they could face a Premier League side.

The Bluebirds started the game brightly and were ahead inside a minute following Ged Garner’s low finish after Port Vale failed to clear a long throw-in from fullback Rory Feely.

Scottish striker and summer signing Ruari Paton soon hit back for the hosts to level proceedings as his wicked free-kick left Barrow goalkeeper Paul Farman helpless.

Buoyed by the home faithful, the hosts started the second half the better and chances from Dean Campbell and the impressive Katia Kouyate threatened to help them retake the lead.

However – against the run of play – it was the visitors who took the lead and it was an excellent finish from outside the area from substitute full-back Tom Sang that completed a scoreline turnaround.

Barrow boss Clemence reacted by making a double change that included tall striker Emile Acquah, who immediately found himself at the centre of the action as he weaved through defenders to force a save from away goalkeeper Ben Amos.

Acquah was not to be denied for long though and soon levelled matters after he managed to get on the end of an excellent inswinging cross from full-back Ben Jackson.

Jackson then turned match winner as he curled home an excellent strike from outside the box to send The Bluebirds through to round two.