Neill Collins and match-winner John McAtee were delighted to send the 600 Barnsley fans who made the long trip to Exeter City home happy after a last-minute goal secured a fifth straight win on the road.

The Reds came out on top in a fairly even game which lifts them up to third in League One.

Head coach Collins said: “It was always going to be a very tough game after the game we had at Cambridge on Tuesday and coming down here. Exeter have not been on the best run but they have a good side.

“We did well in the first half but maybe there was a lack of quality at times. We were slow to get started in the second half but then we looked like the team that was going to win it.

“We got the goal then Exeter created a great opportunity (a header against the post). But it was an excellent result and a real strong professional performance.

“Anyone who comes down here will find it difficult. One point would’ve been good but three makes it that journey home easier.”

McAtee was one of several substitutes who made a big impact.

Collins said: “When we missed the last corner at the back post (Jamie McCart), I probably felt that was the final chance. But great team work to win the ball back, good pass, good cross and good finish It was the first time in the day we got everything right.

“John missed a couple of chances in the last two games but good strikers keep going.

“If there was ever a day you really need your subs it’s on a hot day after a long trip, the third game in a week. Just having that freshness and quality probably shone.”

About 600 fans make the trip to Devon. Collins said: “Particularly on a day like today you want to give the fans a team effort, performance, hard work and the result. We did that. It’s great they can go home happy and they should be proud of the players today.”

McAtee added: “I was just relieved to score after missing a few. The fans deserved that after a six hour trip here and back. We’re just happy send them home with three points.”