Forest Green Rovers' next opponent, Barrow, are buoyed by the scoring form of midfielder Rekeem Harper ahead of their meeting on 24 October. Harper has netted the opening goal in each of Barrow's last five National League games, all of which ended in victory, including a penalty in a 2-1 win at Tamworth. The 26-year-old, who has worn the captain's armband for the past three matches, says his transformation is down to manager Adam Murray's instructions. "I'm a midfielder that likes to do everything and I've got experience in a lot of different roles," Harper said. "But the gaffer this year has come in and said I'm an attacking midfielder that can get goals." His recent performances, show he has scored his five goals in just 273 minutes of play, a remarkable rate of a goal every 54.6 minutes.
Harper’s role under Murray
Harper's current output marks a stark contrast to last season, where he managed just two goals in 35 appearances during Barrow's relegation from League Two. Harper emphasised the importance of backing up words with action. "It's easy to talk and say you want to be those things," he added. "But you need evidence and the evidence is showing that I can be that midfielder." The manager's faith has been central, with Harper noting the specific tactical work on positioning and runs into the box that has unlocked his threat.
Context for Forest Green
The in-form Harper presents a specific challenge for a Forest Green side looking to arrest a difficult run. The Rovers sit 16th in the National League with 15 points from 12 games and are without a win in five, a sequence that includes a 4-2 home defeat to Hartlepool United last time out. Harper expressed his delight at contributing to Barrow's winning streak and the positive atmosphere at the club. "I'm delighted to contribute and more importantly, just to keep winning," he said. "It's a good feel around the place at the minute, so I'm enjoying it." Forest Green will need to be wary of the midfielder's threat when they travel north next week, aiming to improve on their current form which reads zero wins, three draws and two defeats from the last five outings. Barrow will be looking to maintain their momentum in this fixture, one of several key matches listed on their fixtures page, as they push for a play-off spot.
