FORMER Barrow AFC striker Emile Acquah was on target against his old club as Adam Murray’s side suffered defeat.
The Bluebirds were edged out 2-1 in a behind-closed-doors friendly clash with Notts County at Meadow Lane.
Innes Cameron continued his good pre-season form by grabbing Barrow’s only goal.
The first opening of the game went the visitors’ way as Barrow started brightly.
Ben Whitfield got in behind down the right on six minutes, and his effort brought a smart save from Kelle Roos in the County goal.
Three minutes later, Whitfield again went close.
Cameron won possession high up the field before delivering an inviting cross from the left, but Whitfield's header was off target.
Barrow keeper Killian Barrett was called on to make several saves as County began to pose a threat.
Barrett produced an excellent stop from the edge of the area before making another fine save moments later, while The Magpies also hit the woodwork.
But it wasn’t one-way traffic with Danny Rose holding the ball up superbly before turning two defenders on the edge of the box, only to see strong appeals for a penalty waved away.
The visitors also created opportunities from a succession of set pieces, while Trialist A produced an good run and cross after beating two defenders, although he couldn’t find the final touch he needed.
Despite chances for both sides, it remained 0-0 at the break.
County rang the changes for the second half, replacing their entire outfield side.
Early in the second half, Whitfield came up with a pair of dangerous free-kicks, while Daniel Amos went on the attack.
But it was the hosts who made the breakthrough just after the hour mark.
A long ball over the top made its way to Lee Ndlovu, who finished with a composed lob over Barrett to put County ahead.
Five minutes later, The Bluebirds were back on level terms.
Whitfield beat his marker before driving into the penalty area and squaring for Cameron, who calmly converted from close range to make it 1-1.
But with 16 minutes remaining, County retook the lead.
A turnover in midfield put the home side back on the attack, and former Bluebird Acquah applied the finishing touch from close range.
Barrow were denied a penalty late on when Rose appeared to be brought down by Aden Flint, but it was the hosts who were awarded the decision and to add insult to injury Rose picked up a caution.
The Bluebirds have their final pre-season clash on Saturday as they play host to Morecambe at Holker Street (Kick-Off 3pm).
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