Donovan Pines was thrilled to mark his first experience of Boxing Day football with a win.

The American defender has always watched English games over Christmas and played in one for the first time when he helped the Reds to a 2-1 victory at Bolton Wanderers on Thursday.

Pines told the Chronicle: “It was a blessing to play on Boxing Day in a big venue in a pumped atmosphere. It was awesome, I was really trying to score for my family. But a win is even better.”

Pines has spent almost all of 2024 as a Barnsley player having signed last January.

“It’s different. A lot colder. But it’s great, I have some great friends. It’s an eye-opener for me. Every team is different. It’s really cool and I feel blessed to be over here. I am just trying to make the most of it, do my best and hopefully make a name for myself.”

Barnsley’s win at Bolton followed a 4-0 home loss to Leyton Orient. Pines said: “Consistency is huge. We need to keep humble and do the next thing right. It’s really up and down but that’s football. We just need to keep going.”

Barnsley’s goals on Boxing Day were netted by Davis Keillor-Dunn and Adam Phillips. Pines said: “Davis is a great guy and finisher. It’s the Davis Dunn show. I gave him a big hug and said I was proud of him. I said ‘get one for your kid and family.’ I was really happy he was able to do that. And Phillo as well.”

In the second half, Pines stood next to goalkeeper Ben Killip to head corners away.

“They were testing Ben and I said I needed to drop in a bit more and help him. It’s maybe good on my part that I saw what was needed and took responsibility to help us get over the line.”