SWANSEA City boss Brendan Rodgers insisted referee Phil Gibbs got the decision right which allowed Scott Sinclair to salvage a point for his side.
Sinclair, who took his goals tally for the season to 17 in the 1-1 draw at Oakwell, was brought down by Barnsley keeper Luke Steele in the 86th minute, though the home fans were up in arms when the official pointed to the spot.
In scoring, Sinclair helped Swansea arrest a run of three away defeats, while Barnsley are still not out of danger in the bottom half of the table.
And while Tykes boss Mark Robins felt the penalty award was very harsh, Rodgers was adamant the referee got it right.
“It’s a clear penalty when you see the replay,” he said. “Scott’s speed was unbelievable. He got a nice touch on it and it’s a clear penalty.”
Rodgers questioned whether Barnsley’s goal in the first half was valid. The referee had to rely on the advice of one of his assistants before giving the goal, though Rodgers wasn’t convinced Bobby Hassell’s header had crossed the line.
Overall, though, Rodgers was pleased with the point his side gained after an indifferent display in the first half.
A better second 45 minutes was rewarded and the Irishman was full of praise for the solidarity his players showed to keep fighting until the end.
“I’m happy with the point after our first half where we weren’t aggressive enough in defence.” he added.
“There was a better reaction in the second half which was outstanding. I’m disappointed we didn’t win the game but if we couldn’t win it then it’s important not to lose it.
“I think it shows the spirit in the group. When you are trying to build a successful team it’s important you have that camaraderie. That shows more times than not when you are behind in a game when you’re away from home.
“I think you’ve got to give big applause to Barnsley. They are a good side and played well in the first half. Coming into the game they had won eight of 13 at home which is the third best record in the division and it’s a tough place to come to.”
Yesterday’s match also saw Leon Britton back in a Swansea shirt, and Rodgers was happy with the way he shored up the Swansea midfield and labelled him as “one of the best players in the league” at providing control to a team’s performance.