PETER JACKSON paid tribute to fans and players alike today and set sights on the away wins which could tip the promotion balance in Town's favour.

Saturday's crowd of 19,052 was the biggest for Town since the Lincoln play-off in 2004 (19,467) and the highest home League gate since Birmingham relegated the club in 2001 (19,290).

Jackson said: "I thought the lads gave me everything and kept plugging away while the fans produced the best atmosphere I've experienced for a League game since I've been manager.

"I called for them to get right behind the lads and that's exactly what they did to help us win what was a difficult, big-pressure match.

"Credit Barnsley, because they are a good side, but we cut through the tension and expectation and showed a massive amount of character to take the three points."

Jackson added: "We probably got that little bit of good luck which has deserted us on some occasions this season, but Barnsley didn't take their chances and we were able to grind out a great result.

"It just shows what can happen if you keep plugging away and we do have a fantastic spirit in our club.

"I have told the lads time and time again about the importance of keeping clean sheets and Saturday's match shows the value of that. One goal was always going to be enough to settle it because there was a lot at stake for both clubs, and Fletch came up with another very important goal for us.

"He's been an excellent signing for a free transfer, but I thought all the lads stuck to their guns, our two young centre-backs, Nathan Clarke and David Mirfin were outstanding, and Phil Senior made some vital saves when he had to."