GRAHAM Barrow is set for a busy week searching for defensive cover in the wake of Danny Swailes' recent transfer.

Swailes moved to Macclesfield Town late on Thursday leaving the Bury manager short of central defensive options.

If Saturday's match at Scunthorpe is anything to go by Swailes' absence is going to be felt quite considerably as it was a lack of a dominant presence that allowed the Iron to steal the goals that earned them a late 3-2 victory.

With Gigg Lane in the midst of a financial crisis, it's unclear whether the powers-that-be will sanction anyone coming in, but there's no doubt in Barrow's mind that something needs to be done even if it's a loan deal.

It's now nine games since the Shakers tasted victory and although their overall play isn't a cause for concern, at Glanford Park there were signs of defensive frailties that will need to be eradicated in the coming weeks if the club aren't to be involved in a harrowing relegation dogfight.

"It's obvious to me from Saturday's game that something needs to be done now Danny's gone," said Barrow.

"We definitely need help defensively, someone who will get their head on the ball and stiffen it up at the back.

"Colin Woodthorpe is struggling with a back injury and there's always the chance of losing players due to suspensions so we've a good case to bring someone in.

"I know it depends on finances, but I think it's important we do something now, I've got one or two irons in the fire but will have to get it okayed first."

Saturday's result was a real sickener as the Shakers ended their barren goalscoring spell with two fine efforts from Chris Porter and the on-loan Andy Keogh.

Porter had to limp off just after half time but Keogh - who has teamed up with the Irish Under-19 squad this week - looked a quality performer and someone who will fill the boots of leading scorer Dave Nugent admirably.

Nugent eased the Shakers money worries somewhat when he joined Preston North End at the beginning of last week, but on Saturday's showing Keogh appeared a top drawer replacement.

"I thought Andy looked fantastic and linked up well with Chris (Porter) and Jon Newby.

"We have him for six games now and hopefully a bit longer.

"With a bit of luck he's going to help us in our quest to get some wins to take us out of trouble."

After last week's double departure Barrow admitted to feeling "shattered" and a little worried about the spirit of the players and the supporters.

But the team's performance at Scunthorpe and the fans' reaction at Glanford Park have given him a big boost.

"I must admit I was a bit concerned about the morale of the team and the fans but both of them were magnificent on Saturday," he said.

"I was absolutely shattered coming to the game but our vocal support certainly lifted me.

"The way they cheered the team and myself was brilliant, I think they understand the situation at the club and it's up to us to reward them with some victories.

"But we pushed Scunthorpe all the way and they are a team that I expect to be promoted at the end of the season.

"If we had defended better we would have won the game, we just didn't look likely to hold out when they put us under pressure late in the match."