BARROW AFC boss Stephen Clemence has paid tribute to the blue and white faithful.

And the Bluebirds boss has urged them to continue their fantastic support when Port Vale come to town tomorrow.

The two sides have already met in the Carabao Cup this season – a game where Clemence’s side where 3-2 winners.

That victory saw Barrow progress to the next round where they will face Derby County – the game being played at Holker Street next Tuesday night.

But before that the focus remains firmly on League Two action, and Clemence says they fans will have a part to play.

He told The Mail: “We are looking forward to the game (against Port Vale), because I think Holker Street has been a bit of fortress over the last couple of seasons, and we want to make sure we continue in that vein.

“We’ve started well at home this year, and think that anyone who comes to our place will know that they are in for a game, and I’m sure it will be no different on Saturday.

“What did please me last weekend, which I should mention is, our travelling support were fantastic at Carlisle.

“I could hear them all afternoon, and we really appreciate them coming out in their numbers to support the team.

“And we are going to need them again tomorrow.

“Like I say it’s a difficult place to come, and we want to make it as difficult as we can, and our supporters can really help us with that.”

The Bluebirds are looking to bounce back against the Valiants, having suffered their first defeat of the season away to Carlisle in the Cumbrian derby last weekend.

Clemence admits that was tough result to take, but says everyone is now focused on what lies ahead, starting with tomorrow’s clash.

He added: “It’s never easy for football players, for staff, for myself, for supporters when you get beat in a derby.

“It took a couple of days to get over it, but the boys have trained really well this week, and they are looking forward to getting back out on the pitch on Saturday, being at home in another big game.

“We have to put last weekend’s game to bed now, draw a line under it and get on with the rest of our campaign.”

Vale’s only defeat so far this term came at the hands of the Bluebirds, and they will be looking to get revenge for that cup exit.

But Clemence is happy with how his side have been progressing.

He said: “There are always things you can improve on, and as a staff, a club and a squad that’s what we are looking to do.

“We want to keep getting better, to keep pushing forward and we feel that we have the players here to do that.”