MARC Roberts was delighted to make his 100th Barnsley appearance this week and is hoping to reach at least 150 in the future.
The 34-year-old, who re-signed for his hometown club for a second spell in the summer, has been a regular in central defence this season.
Roberts played his 100th game for the Reds on Saturday and opened the scoring in the 3-1 win at Port Vale in the FA Cup.
Roberts, who first signed in 2015, told the Chronicle: “It was a long century, wasn’t it?
“It was lovely to get to that milestone finally. It’s a nice achievement for me and hopefully there are plenty more to come. I still feel I have plenty of games left in me.
“Touch wood I can turn it into 150 and then see where we take it.”
Barnsley host near neighbours Rotherham United tonight.
The last time the fixture was played in front of fans was in August 2016, when Roberts opened the scoring in a 4-0 win. He said: “I remember that game well. All derby games are a bit crazy and bring their own challenges.
“Rotherham are a good side, sprinkled with really good players, but probably not in the form they would like to be. It’s a dangerous game.
“We can’t underestimate them because they have not set off well in the league.
“I have no doubt they will pick up at some point. We just have to make sure it’s not against us.”
The Reds have won just once at home this season in the league.
Roberts said: “We need to pick up more wins at home and hopefully we can start on Friday. We’ve got some really good results away and hopefully that stands us in good stead to bring that form back to Oakwell. We’re in a good place confidence-wise.
“Friday could be a good occasion for us to kick-start our home form.”
Roberts is keeping Donovan Pines out of the side but says the American is still a big influence around the club.
“Whoever is playing or not, it’s one of the best things – lads don’t moan and they are pushing everyone to be their best. Donny is very enthusiastic, probably a bit too much sometimes.
“He works hard in training.
“He’s a good player and there’s no doubt he will play plenty of games this year. Conor (McCarthy) trains really well and he’s been unfortunate not to get many appearances this year.
“People breathing down your neck keeps you on your game. You know, if you make mistakes, you will probably be out of the team.”
Roberts has four goals this season, with three in his last six games, and is the joint second top-scorer.
He has already equalled his highest total in a professional season.
Roberts said: “It’s nice to contribute and, if we are going to be where want to be, everyone has to contribute from all areas of the pitch.”
