BARROW AFC's FA Cup showdown at Holker Street was something of an international affair.

Argentinian Barrow AFC Jose Liuis Darruspe travalled thousands of miles to be at the game.

The 67-year-old has been supporting Barrow since 1976 when he first came to the town with the Argentine Navy as the crew of Type 42 destroyer Hercules.

His wife Lauren Darruspe is from Barrow.

Mr Darruspe flew in frown Buenos Aires for the clash. His other team is Boca Juniors.

After the game he said: "We lost a match, not a war. This happens in football.

"The atmosphere was very good. They tried hard, but Rochdale was a better team and Barrow had a bit of bad luck."

Danish AFC fans Dennis Anderson, 32, and Lars Fjord 28, made their first trip to Holker Street this weekend for the FA Cup action.

The Danes from Esbjerg have been following the Bluebirds for a number of years now and make annual trips to away games.

Mr Andersen said: "Me and another friend wanted to support a minor league team in England and we found the Barrow fans forum on the internet and started chatting.

"It's the excitement and the hospitality of the fans when we go to the away matches is great.

"It's the first time we have been here to Barrow and everyone is so nice. They are so friendly and welcoming."

Mr Fjord said: "We go to one game a season. We enjoy the atmosphere on match days. The fans are friendly."

Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock attend the game and said: "Barrow gave it their all, but Rochdale deserved the win.

"Throughout this campaign the team has done the town proud. The main thing that people will take away is that is has been a fabulous day for Barrow and Barrow AFC.

"The nation was watching and the team gave everything and the wider club has shown that it can handle big days like this."

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