Brad Barry says Barrow AFC will continue to show they are not just in League Two to make up the numbers.

The wing-back says their opening-day display against Stevenage, which saw David Dunn’s side come within a whisker of a memorable victory, must be the start of things to come.

The Bluebirds came close to starting life back in the Football League with a win, before Dior Angus’ penalty was wiped out late on by Inih Effiong’s spot-kick for the visitors.

Barry was frustrated AFC were denied all three points but said it was important Barrow made a statement about their intentions this season.

He said: “We’ve got a point on the board, didn’t come away with nothing, and it’s a massive start for Barrow.

“We need to set an example – we’re not just here to have a little kickaround, we’re here to prove to everyone why we’re here.”

Barrow’s start to life back in the League for the first time in 48 years sees Dunn’s men unbeaten over 90 minutes in their first three encounters in all competitions.

Saturday’s draw followed goalless cup encounters with Derby and Blackpool which were followed by penalty shoot-out defeats.

Striker Angus then made history as their first goalscorer since their long-awaited promotion, before a late challenge by Sam Hird allowed Stevenage to grab a point in the behind-closed-doors home clash.

Boss Dunn was left to rue their failure to kill the game off but Barry also said they could take encouragement from aspects of the day.

“It’s a bit disappointing after taking the lead early doors – conceding a penalty towards the end isn’t what we wanted, but to still come away with a point, we can’t be too down,” Barry said.

“It’s our first league game and some of the boys are still getting used to it, especially with a team like Stevenage, who were quite direct – I think a lot of teams are going to be similar.”

It was Barry who earned Barrow’s early spot-kick after he burst into the box onto a raking ball into the right channel.

He said: “It’s something we’ve been working on all week, making sure the wing-backs can get in.

“We’ve been doing it all last year and if you get a chance, make sure you take it – and Dior did.”

Barrow came close to further goals with Kgosi Ntlhe hitting the woodwork and both Angus and Mike Jones denied by keeper Jamie Cumming.

Barry added on the club website: “A lot of games are like that but you can’t always score with every opportunity.

As a back five we’ve got to make sure we’re solid – you can’t guarantee the strikers are going to score every time.

“A win would have been perfect for everyone – not just us, the whole town.

“We didn’t come away with nothing and we just have to keep our heads held high.”