Barrow Raiders forward Carl Forster has praised the fans as a main factor in the club remaining unbeaten at home in the 2021 League 1 season.

The Raiders were crowned champions following the home victory over West Wales Raiders, having won 13 games in the campaign, the most in the League 1 competition.

Paul Crarey’s side also went unbeaten at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium, and Forster says the fans played a huge factor in that.

“As soon as the fans returned you could tell what had been missing,” Said Forster, reflecting on the season.

“Our fans have been a credit all year and I do believe they were a huge reason we went the campaign unbeaten at home.

“Even the away trip to Rochdale felt like a home fixture with the noise they made. It always helps us give that little extra when you hear them.

“It was a real tough campaign to be honest, I thought we started the season really well. But like every squad in the competition, we picked up some injuries and Covid prevented some lads from playing and disrupted our season a little.

“But we managed to get back on track towards the end of the season and came away with the trophy so overall it was a fantastic season and I loved every minute of it.”

Following an impressive season at Raiders, Forster won the Player of the Year Award and Players’ Player of the Year Award at the end of season presentation night.

“It’s obviously good to be recognised when you’re on the field, especially as a middle,” said Forster.

“To get the coach’s player of the year was brilliant as I have a lot of respect for our coaching staff and their opinion of me. But to also get voted in by my teammates is really special for me, I value their opinion the most out of anybody.”

Following the success of the 2021 season, the Raiders will feature in the Betfred Championship in 2022, with season tickets on sale now for just £120 for adults and £60 for concessions.

On his well deserved break and preparations for 2022, Forster added: “I’m really looking forward to just having a rest for a week or two and having some long weekends away with Sam and the kids.

“Obviously in the modern day we need to come back to pre-season in decent shape so we can’t rest for too long.

“But I’m really looking forward to what 2022 brings and the challenges it will bring. I do believe we’re a club going in the right direction so it’s something to be excited about!”