Delighted Stevenage boss Alex Revell hailed Boro fans for helping his side to three welcome points on the opening day of the League Two season.

With supporters having to contend with three lockdowns over the last 18 months, attending live sport has been prohibited for most of that time.

However, with restrictions easing as Covid figures continue to fall apace thanks to the numbers of people being double jabbed, the Lamex welcome fans back for the first time since a 0-0 draw with Southend last December.

A crowd of 2,536 was treated to a stirring triumph over an obdurate Barrow side, with a Jake Reeves strike 30 seconds after the interval clinching a deserved, but hard-fought win over Mark Coopers Bluebirds.

Speaking to Nub News after the match Revell said: "I'm delighted. That's why we do it. That's why we play football - so that our fans can go home with a smile on their faces.

"We've seen a lot of people that haven't been to the Lamex in a long time. I've spoken to two people who have had serious illnesses - and to see them smiling after our victory, well that's why we do what we do.

"All our players have been really appreciate of the support we've had to get us over the line against Barrow."

Boro host near neighbours Luton Town in the first round of the League Cup on Tuesday evening, before they travel to Bristol Rovers next Saturday and Bradford City a week Tuesday.

"We are now looking forward to Tuesday night," said Revell, adding, "It will be a fantastic game. They've had a great start [beating Peterborough 3-0 at Kenilworth Road on Saturday], so we've got to make sure we're ready for the challenge.

"We're looking forward to having a fantastic atmosphere on Tuesday, these games are the type that you really miss.. They will bring a big crowd, so we need our fans to help us through the game."

Revell also hailed Barrow matchwinner Jake Reeves, adding: "It was a fantastic goal. He's a quality player, he wants to come forward and score goals.

"As a No4 he wants to push forward as he's itching to contribute further forward - but that's a sign of the quality he's got. He kept cool for a fantastic finish."