The Reds were largely in control of most of the game against Stevenage, conceding just one shot on target which resulted from a Luca Connell mistake. 

It was a much-needed win after the dismal performance at Cardiff in which Barnsley looked poor. 

The win extended the gap from the bottom four to five points, as Barnsley still look to figure out their true position in the table due to all the games in hand. 

New signing Scott Banks looked impressive and could be in line for another start after registering an assist on against Stevenage. 

Conor Hourihane deployed a 4-2-3-1 with David McGoldrick leading the line, after mentioning he didn’t like how The Reds were playing in a back 5. 

Striker Tom Bradshaw could be involved after signing for Barnsley on deadline day. 

As for visitors Northampton, they occupy a place in the bottom four sitting 23rd.

The Cobblers haven’t won in eight league games with their last victory coming at home to Wimbledon on 19 December. 

Their last away win came in late November which was a 3-0 win away at Plymouth. 

They are managed by former Bolton, Newcastle and West Ham midfielder Kevin Nolan who was appointed in December 2024. 

Nolan replaced Jon Brady who resigned from his post after three and a half years in charge. 

They have former Barnsley players Conor McCarthy and Cameron McGeehan in their ranks. 

Last season the two sides drew 2-2 at Oakwell in late August 2024 and Barnsley won away at Northampton on 25 February. 

Barnsley and Northampton have met 28 times in competitive fixtures, with Barnsley winning eight and losing 14.