Barnsley manager Daniel Stendel has sent a message of support to striker Makenzie Kirk ahead of his side's League One match against Leyton Orient. The Tykes travel to Brisbane Road looking to build on a midweek cup win and kickstart their league campaign, as reported by the Yorkshire Post.
What is the recent history between the teams?
Recent meetings between Leyton Orient and Barnsley have been defined by goals. In the 2024-25 season, the two sides shared 11 goals across their two fixtures. Last season was no different, with nine goals scored in total over their two meetings. Barnsley netted six of those nine goals in the last campaign, but they have yet to score in the league this term. Their only goals so far came in a 3-0 EFL Cup victory over Crewe Alexandra on Tuesday.
Who is Barnsley's striker to watch?
The man tasked with ending Barnsley's league scoring drought is likely to be Makenzie Kirk. The Portsmouth loanee has worked hard in the opening games but is still searching for his first goal of the season. Daniel Stendel offered his full backing to the forward. "I think he works hard and runs a lot. At the moment, he's not scored, but it doesn't matter," the manager said. Stendel's comments suggest Kirk will retain his place as Barnsley seek their maiden league scorer.
How did the midweek cup win help?
Tuesday's cup success provided a timely boost. It was a welcome development ahead of the weekend's trip to face Leyton Orient. The win also saw the return of wing-back Corey O'Keeffe to the first team. O'Keeffe, who had asked for a chance to play, marked his comeback with an eye-catching goal. Stendel praised his contribution, saying, "He asked for the chance to play and I think he played a good game on Tuesday, especially with a really nice goal." His return adds another option for the manager.
What is Leyton Orient's current situation?
Leyton Orient enter this fixture sitting 10th in the League One table with three points from two games, having won one and lost one. Their recent form reads WL. The O's have scored three goals and conceded two, giving them a +1 goal difference. They currently sit three points behind early leaders Bradford City. After hosting Barnsley, Richie Wellens's side face a trip to face Bromley, who are 8th, on September 1st. Fans can track the team's progress on our standings page and view the full schedule on our fixtures list.
What does this mean for the next game?
The stage is set for another potentially entertaining encounter between these two sides. Barnsley will be desperate to translate their cup form to the league and find the net. For Leyton Orient, it's a chance to build momentum at home and solidify their position in the top half of the table. With both teams having shown they can score freely against each other in recent seasons, a tight contest is not guaranteed. The O's will need to be alert to the threat of Kirk and the returning O'Keeffe as they look to secure a positive result.
