Morecambe vs Barrow
EFL Trophy
Northern Group A
Tuesday
10th October 2023
Mazuma Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the EFL Trophy fixture between Morecambe and Barrow.
Morecambe vs Barrow: Preview
Morecambe form analysis
The Shrimps had an excellent comeback 2-1 home win over Gillingham, responding immediately after going behind through goals from Mellon and Mahoney. They then drew a thrilling 2-2 game at home to Swindon, with Mellon again on target before Walker’s late equalizer. Morecambe made it 7 points from 3 games after winning 2-1 away at Forest Green, with Mellon once more netting along with Slew. However, they then drew two straight games 1-1 at home to Accrington and away at Colchester. Last time out though, Morecambe returned to winning ways with a 1-3 victory away at Colchester inspired by a McKiernan hat-trick.
Overall, Morecambe’s results have been inconsistent but performances have been steadily improving under Derek Adams. Mellon has been integral with 4 goals already, while McKiernan starred last time out. However, lapses defensively have cost Morecambe points at times. If they can add greater solidity to complement their goal threat, Morecambe have an excellent chance of pushing for a playoff place this term. But tightening up at the back is crucial to build momentum after this up and down spell.
Barrow form analysis
Barrow secured a creditable 1-1 away draw at Newport, equalizing through Campbell’s late penalty after going behind. However, they suffered a 1-0 defeat next time out away at Mansfield, undone by Clarke’s second half strike. Barrow then produced their best performance yet in an entertaining 3-2 home win over Doncaster, netting through goals from Warren, Garner and Acquah. But they returned to losing ways in a 1-2 home defeat to Grimsby, despite Foley pulling one back late on. Last time out, Barrow earned a decent 1-1 home draw with Notts County thanks to another Campbell spot kick.
Overall, Barrow have been competitive in most games, showing spirit to battle back at times. Campbell has impressed, scoring 3 penalties already this term. However, a lack of attacking spark from open play has been apparent, netting just 5 goals from 6 games. If the manager can address this lack of cutting edge upfront, Barrow have the resilience to pull away from any relegation battle. But substantially improving their goal threat from their forward players is crucial for any upturn in results after this inconsistent spell.
