Barnet suffered their second home defeat in a row at the hands of Carlisle in an entertaining encounter. Defensive mistakes cost the Bees dearly in a game that they really should have won in the first half.

Barnet started very brightly in the first half and had a string of chances; Ismail Yakubu, Ben Strevens and Jason Norville had the most notable chances but each of them failed to capitalise.

The Bees first chance came in the third minute, when Ismail Yakubu headed wide from an impressive free-kick from, Ben Strevens. Jason Norville had the next chance, but shot wide from distance after good link up play with Guiliano Grazioli, who was captain in place of Ian Hendon who was left on the bench by Paul Fairclough.

In the twenty seventh minute Barnet had their best chance of the half as Grazioli and Norville linked up again to create a chance for Ben Strevens who shot over the bar, when he really should have done better.

Carlisle then had their first chance of the game as Derek Holmes hit the post for the Cumbrians after Peter Murphy sent in a long free-kick. Holmes got the better of Anthony Charles, but was very unlucky to hit the post. This was Carlisle’s only real chance in the first half. Yakubu and Charles managed to subdue League Two’s top scorer Karl Hawley and former Newcastle and Leeds man Michael Bridges in the first forty five minutes.

Barnet had another two chances before the break. Carlisle ‘keeper Kieren Westwood produced a super save to deny Ben Strevens after he struck a sublime free-kick. From the resulting corner Dean Sinclair headed just wide when the goal was at his mercy.

Barnet failed to capitalise on a good first half performance which would come back to haunt them as Carlisle went on to win the game.

Carlisle certainly came out better in the second half. Karl Hawley was substituted due to injury, which must have been to the relief of the Barnet fans. Yet, it didn’t seem to effect the League 2 leaders too much as Michael Bridges almost put them ahead, but his effort sailed over the bar, and into the Barnet fans behind the goal.

Barnet seemed to wake up after this and eventually went in to the lead in the fifty third minute. Nicky Bailey floated a hopeful free-kick into the area which proved a success as Carlisle forward Derek Holmes headed into his own net, having been put under pressure by Anthony Charles.

Barnet’s lead was short lived though as not more than twenty seconds later Michael Bridges latched on to a long ball from Holmes to slot home coolly past debutant goalkeeper Matt Reed to send the Carlisle following of just under a thousand fans, mental. Bridges started to show glimpses of his old self, and showed what an asset he is to Carlisle.

From then on it was mainly Carlisle who pushed on to score a winning goal. They got that goal on the seventy fourth minute, as Simon Hackney, who had just seen an effort go wide , was more accurate as he powered his shot past Matt Reed. Carlisle then hit the post through Aranalde from a free-kick. Dean Sinclair almost grabbed a point for the Bees but his twenty yard shot was well saved by Westwood in the Carlisle Goal.

The high-flying Cumbrians continued their good run and look set for promotion, whereas the Bees are now staring down the barrel at relegation back to the Conference. The Bees travel to Leyton Orient on Tuesday night desperately needing three points at Brisbane Road.

Northampton Town 1-2 Barnet

Attendance: 5817 (614 Barnet)

By Iain Dalziel at Underhill

A Barnet side, kitted out in their new black strip, began their second spell in the Football League with a 1-1 draw at home to Bristol Rovers.

The Bees looked on course to get the season off to the best possible start with a win, yet former Barnet man, Junior Agogo snatched a late equaliser, meaning Fairclough’s men had to settle for a draw.

Barnet FC and everyone connected to the club had been waiting for this day for months and there was a great sense of anticipation, nerves and excitement at Underhill pre-match. The players were greeted onto the pitch with a fantastic roar, this was the moment everyone had been waiting for, Barnet were back in the Football League.

The players were clearly keen to get off to a good start, Barnet starting the first ten minutes in a very attacking fashion. Number eight Dean Sinclair looked like he’d picked up where he’d left off last season and had began the game at a frantic pace, terrorising Rovers early on. Unsurprisingly it was Sinclair who had Barnet and the game’s first effort on goal. His chipped effort from the edge of the box had to be well tipped over by Rovers new ‘keeper Scott Shearer.

However, Sinclair clearly wasn’t disheartened by his failed attempt and continued to look for the opening goal. His second effort came around the seven minute mark, a powerful strike across the face of goal from the edge of the area, sailed just over the bar, much to Shearer’s relief. It looked like the former Norwich youngster would make it third time lucky, when following a great burst into the box down the right hand side, Dwane Lee squared it back to him. Yet a split second of hesitation proved costly, Christian Edwards clearing the ball to safety.

Moments later came a nasty injury to Rovers centre back, John Anderson. The Pirates defender took a hard blow to his nose and subsequently played no further part, being replaced by Hinton and going straight to Barnet General Hospital, where it was announced the player had a broken nose.

After the good start from the Bees the pace dropped slightly and a rather un-adventurous Bristol side started to venture forward. However, despite looking more keen to attack Barnet they created very little. Midway through the half Agogo almost got a good chance. A cross was swung into the box, but Agogo failed to meet it, claiming a nudge in the back from Anthony Charles had forced him to fail to make contact, yet the referee gave nothing. Though on the whole Bristol Rovers did very little in the opening forty five minutes, two free kicks were awarded to them within shooting range, yet both went straight into Barnet’s wall.

Barnet however were unlucky not to go ahead, minutes before the interval. A Grazioli header was well cleared off the line by Bass. That was last season’s top scorers first real chance, having been caught offside on several other attacks, by a very flag happy linesman.

Grazioli’s blocked header was the last real action of what was not the most entertaining of first half’s. However, with the score 0-0 at half time, the game could still go either way, neither side creating any clear cut chances so far.

The second half began in much the same way as the majority of the first forty five minutes had been played, Barnet looking the more dangerous of the two sides, but neither team able to really break each other down and find that all important opening goal.

Barnet looked very dangerous at times, in terms of build up play, but in the final third couldn’t break down a stubborn Rovers defence, who were well marshalled by one time Wales international, Christian Edwards.

Rovers best attack of the game up to that point came around the hour mark, when an otherwise quiet Junior Agogo, went on one of his mazy runs that the Barnet faithful know all about. Picking up the ball down the left he made a delightful run down the wing, giving Yakubu a torrid time. In the end Agogo’s former playing colleague, Yakubu, simply couldn’t cope with Agogo’s pace and trickery and brought him down on the edge of the area. The young centre back was lucky to escape with just a warning, rather than the yellow card the tackle appeared to deserve.

However, after much frustration and failed attacks the game’s first goal came, thirteen minutes from time, and it was the home side who got it.

A fantastic long ball from Ismail Yakubu was chased down by Graham. Scott Shearer came charging out of his goal to get it, but the Northern Irish winger managed to beat him to it and knocked it round the debutant in the Rovers goal. With the goalkeeper beaten Graham calmly pulled it back and side footed it goal wards. Neither Hinton or Bass on the line could stop it, his shot going just between the two defenders and rolling into the net for Barnet’s first goal in the Coca-Cola League 2 and to put them 1-0 up.

Now Bristol were behind they knew they had to stop simply defending and trying to play on the counter-attack and come at Barnet for an equaliser. Only a minute after going behind they won a free kick in a dangerous position. Yet once again Elliot’s effort struck the Barnet wall.

However, Barnet knew they were going to be in for a tense finale and Fairclough decided to bring on some fresh legs up front, recent signing Jason Norville replaced Grazioli, who had worked tirelessly all afternoon against his former employees, however had found it tough as a lone striker and not got the opportunity he needed to open his account for the new season.

Just a minute after Barnet had taken off the former Bristol Rovers forward, the man who went the other way in the same transfer deal, Junior Agogo, grabbed a late equaliser for the Pirates.

Ian Hendon received the ball on the right hand side, but was closed down by pint-sized winger Ryan Williams, who had been brought on as a substitute. Rather than simply clearing his lines Hendon tried to take the ball around Williams and got dispossessed. However, Williams’ ball into the box went straight to Yakubu, but his poor clearance went straight back to Williams. This time the Bristol winger whipped a superb cross into the Barnet area. Agogo was given far too much space at the back and met the cross with a firm header, flat footing Scott Tynan in the Barnet goal, the ball going to his left side.

Though there were suspicions that Agogo had been offside, he later admitted he thought he was, hence his delayed celebration, which considering some of the stick he had received from sections of the home support, was very toned down. Unfortunately for Barnet the flag stayed down and it was 1-1.

Liam Hatch was thrown on in a late attempt to snatch a win, though if anything it looked as though a now lively Bristol Rovers could steal all three points.

However, neither side found the killer touch for a late winner and both teams went away with a point.

Paul Fairclough was visibly disappointed, the mood in the dressing room afterwards was apparently not good, the Bees feeling they had thrown it away. Bristol Rovers manager Ian Atkins was clearly relieved at his team’s late goal, describing their performance simply as “crap”.

Despite maybe feeling they deserved to win, and on the balance of play they certainly did, Barnet should not be down at the final outcome, as there were many positives to take out of a solid performance.

This coming Tuesday Barnet face a daunting trip to title favourites Northampton Town, at the Sixfields Stadium. However, on the back of a display like this one, they should not go into the game fearing Northampton, it could well prove a very close affair. With a large away following expected Barnet should get all the vocal support they need, but only time will tell if the ‘boys in black’ can produce a performance worthy of taking maximum points on Tuesday night.

Barnet: Scott Tynan (6), Ian Hendon (6), Simon King (7), Ismail Yakubu (8), Anthony Charles (6), Ben Strevens (6) (Liam Hatch (6) ), Nicky Bailey (7), Dwane Lee (7), Dean Sinclair (7), Richie Graham (6), Giuliano Grazioli (7) (Jason Norville (7) )

Unused Subs: Ross Flitney, Louie Soares, Adam Gross

Bees Goal: Richie Graham (77)

Iain Dalziel’s Barnet Man of the Match: Ismail Yakubu, was superb on his debut at this level, though his miss hit clearance let on proved costly, it shouldn’t draw the attention from what was an otherwise solid display by Yakubu.

Bristol Rovers: Scott Shearer, John Bass (Ryan Williams), Christian Edwards, John Anderson (Craig Hinton), Steve Elliot, Robbie Ryan, Craig Disley, Aaron Lescott, Stuart Campbell, Richard Walker (Jefferson Louis)

Unused Subs: Ali Gibb, Jamie Forrester

Rovers Goal: Junior Agogo (87)

Iain Dalziel’s Bristol Rovers Man of the Match: Christian Edwards, he led his defence very well, making things very difficult for Barnet to break down

Away Support: 973

Fowler (pen), Charles, Bowditch

Barnet Reserves won for the second time this season, beating rivals Stevenage 3-0 at Underhill, avenging a 2-0 defeat in the away game at Stevenage back in August. Barnet gave a run-out to on trial Paolo Vernazza and fellow ex-Arsenal youngster, Jordan Fowler. Brazilian, Wesley Garcia, also made his first appearance in Barnet colours.

Boro played ex-Bee Shane Gore in goal and in fairness to him, he could do little to prevent a comfortable Barnet win. However, it was Gore who conceded a penalty in the twenty third minute which lead to Barnet taking the lead. Lee Roache was brought down by his former team mate and ex-Arsenal youngster Jordan Fowler stepped up and perfectly dispatched his spot kick into Gore’s bottom right hand corner. This was the main incident in an otherwise rather quiet first forty five minutes.

In the second half the Bees grabbed two goals to seal the win. Trialists Uzo Opara and Eddie Duah both came on at half time, for Fowler and forward Aaron Samuels respectively. Both looked lively, very powerful players. Barnet should have gone 2-0 up in early on in the second half, when Roache, with a wonderful piece of individual skill got himself one on one with Gore. However, his delicate lob unluckily hit the post. Barnet’s second goal came from a bullet header by captain, Anthony Charles. His powerful effort from a Bowditch cross, made it 2-0 to Barnet.

Barnet, who by now had taken off young Brazilian Wesley Garcia, who had picked up an injury and replaced him with Harry Hunt, went 3-0 up with twenty minutes remaining. A good run by Roache ended with a cross which saw Vernazza’s volley blocked, as was Duah’s effort, before Ben Bowditch calmly slotted home from close range to put the game beyond doubt.

The Bees went close a few more times, but the game ended 3-0, Gary Phillips’ Barnet side comfortable winners. The two trialists on at half time and also Vernazza all had quite good games, Fowler sustained an early knock, which appeared to affect his performance. All four certainly deserve another chance to show Phillips and Fairclough how good they are. All in all an easy Barnet win, which could have been more.

Barnet: Tynan (6), Burton (6), Devera (7), Charles (6), Watts (6), Bowditch (7), Fowler (6) (Opara (7), Vernazza (7), Garcia (6) (Hunt (6), Samuels (6) (Duah (7), Roache (8)

Unused Subs: Brindley, Swain

Bees Goals: Fowler (pen, 23), Charles (64), Bowditch (70)

Iain Dalziel’s Man Of The Match: Lee Roache. Showed why he is a first team squad member, certainly did enough to hopefully impress the watching Paul Fairclough.

(Shrewsbury won 5-3 on pens, aet)

Both sides began quite brightly, the first chance came in just the third minute when the unchanged Barnet side nearly got a very lucky lead. After some good pressure from Grazioli, Shrews skipper Darren Tinson, inside his own penalty box, panicked and headed the ball over goalkeeper Scott Howie. With the Shrewsbury ‘keeper beaten the Bees looked destined to go one up. However, to the fortune of the Shrews the ball bounced just in front of the post and bounced inches over the bar.

After Barnet’s early chance, Shrewsbury began to press. Except for one wasted chance from Grazioli, Barnet had very few attacks.

Following many half chances, Bees ‘keeper Shane Gore was forced into his first real save on forty four minutes. A well struck low free kick by Luke Rodgers was seen late by Gore. However, the former Wimbledon stopper made a phenomenal save. Diving the full stretch of his goal and then turning the ball around the post for a corner. Up to now Barnet had defended solidly, most notably Hendon’s thirty sixth minute block on the line. Yet after denying Shrewsbury on several occasions the Bees gave them a great chance. Tolley’s corner was clearly handled in the air by Barnet’s Liam Hatch, giving the referee no choice but to give Shrewsbury a penalty. Just like at Underhill a handball gave Rodgers a late first half penalty. Once again the Shrews attacker had no trouble beating Gore, his powerful penalty flying into the roof of the net. Shortly after the referee blew for half time.

Barnet came out well at the beginning of the second half, Ben Strevens going very close in the opening minute of the half. The Bees enjoyed a good first fifteen minutes of the half, winning a few corners, although actual chances were very limited.

After an hour gone the Shrews came back into the game. Like Barnet they were playing well, but not really getting many real chances. With the time ticking both Tolley and sub Sedgemore both wasted good chances. Each of the Shrews midfielders were given to much space and time on the edge of the box. First Tolley, his powerful effort had no accuracy and flew well over the bar. Jake Sedgemore did slightly better, after a good run at former Shrews centre back Matt Redmile, he too had a go from the edge of the box. However, unlike Tolley his effort was nowhere near powerful enough, allowing Gore to make a comfortable save.

Both sides tried, but neither could find the all important goal they needed. Therefore the game went into silver goal extra time.

However, the referee wasn’t so sure! In the early moments of extra time, after Shrewsbury won a corner, he ran off the pitch and into his changing room to check the rule book! Most of the first or ‘silver’ period of extra time was spent by both teams passing the ball around, looking dangerous, but tiring and struggling to break each other down. The most dramatic part of this period came in the final seconds. A good cross found Darby totally free inside the Bees box. Yet, once again, the awesome Shane Gore made a fabulous save. With the header destined for his bottom corner the Bees ‘keeper spectacularly clawed the ball to the left of his goal. The appreciation the Bees fans showed mirrored goal celebrations.

In the second period they were once again very few exciting moments. Both teams tried, but just couldn’t do it. Meaning that the dreaded penalties loomed.

After the coin toss it was decided the penalties were to be taken at Shrewsbury’s end. Both sides stood on the halfway line, all there dreams on going to the Britannia on May 16th resting on these spot kicks. This is how they went:

Shrewsbury-scored

Barnet-scored, Strevens

Shrewsbury-scored

Barnet-scored, Grazioli

Shrewsbury-scored

Barnet-scored, Yakabu

Shrewsbury-scored

Barnet-missed, Clist (saved by Howie)

Shrewsbury-scored

Shrewsbury won 5-3 on penalties.

In the end it was just who could take penalties, and it proved the Shrews were better. Clist, the hero of Thursday, was unlucky although all of the other takers did really well, credit to Yakabu, at eighteen years of age that took some courage. On the day Shrewsbury were the better side, but overall there really isn’t much between the two sides.

Still, the Bees did themselves proud and hopefully will be back in the promotion race next season. It was bitterly disappointing, but this is football, there have to be highs and lows. Still, I’m sure any Barnet fan will agree it has been an amazing season. Personally, I know I will never forget this season and I’m sure I’m not alone. Unlucky lads, we’ll be there or thereabouts next year!

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Maddix (Redmile), Plummer, King, Yakabu, Lopez (Clist), Gamble, Strevens, Hatch, Grazioli

Unused Subs: Millard, Rooney, Pearson

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Shane Gore

Attendance: 7012

As expected the game started at a good pace, both sides stringing together some good early passes. The ball was generally being played on the ground, both sides choosing the ‘total football’ approach.

Despite both teams starting well, there were no early goal scoring opportunities. Yet, ten minutes in, in the games first real chance, came the opening goal. A good ball forward found Barnet’s tall forward Liam Hatch. After out-pacing the defender Hatch was closing in on goal. However, as he went to round the ‘keeper he was brought down and the referee instantly pointed to the spot. Luckily for Shrewsbury goalkeeper Scott Howie escaped with just a yellow card and remained on the pitch to face the penalty. After two misses from his last three Hendon gave the penalty to Ben Strevens. Under intense pressure Strevens kept his cool, calmly slotting the ball to Howie’s left, sending him the wrong way.

After the Bees goal Shrewsbury started to come out and attack. Within five minutes of going behind the Shrews were extremely unlucky not to equalise. A well struck shot by former Sunderland winger Sam Aiston flew past the Bees defenders, as well as Shane Gore. However, the ball flew off the post and went wide. This effort was a warning of things to come as the Shropshire side came at Barnet with everything they had. On twenty five minutes a close range effort from Duane Darby was well turned round the post, giving Shrewsbury a corner. These were becoming very frequent. Shortly after Darby’s failed effort the Shrews won another corner. The ball was played short and was swung teasingly into the Bees penalty area. Poor marking from the Barnet rearguard allowed Darby a completely free header. With the Shrewsbury fans almost celebrating already, Bees custodian Shane Gore pulled off a magnificent save. Getting right across his goal and somehow managing to stretch and palm the ball out for another corner.

Shrewsbury didn’t look like taking their foot off the gas, and it seemed inevitable that they would equalise. However, two more corners lead to wasted chances and it looked like maybe it wouldn’t be their night. Yet, after having so much bad luck the Shrews finally got some, when they were awarded a late first half penalty. Luke Rodgers optimistic effort from outside the area clearly hit the outstretched arm of Danny Maddix, giving the ref no choice but to award a penalty. From the penalty Rodgers converted well, sending Gore the wrong way. This penalty made it seven penalties awarded in Barnet’s last five fixtures, the fourth for the Bees opponents.

Not long after the equaliser the referee blew for half time. Shrewsbury had ended the half on a high, but it was the least they deserved for a very impressive attacking display. However, half time allowed Barnet to re-group, who aside from the penalty had done very little in the opening forty five minutes.

The second period started at a frantic pace, Strevens making an exciting run down the left inside the opening seconds. Barnet began much better than Shrewsbury, who although having a good end to the first half seemed to have lost their momentum. The Bees on the other hand looked like a different side and Shrewsbury very much had the backs against the wall for much of the opening quarter of an hour. Despite this, Shrewsbury’s ‘keeper was rarely troubled, but a Barnet won several corners and didn’t allow Shrewsbury to hit them on the break.

After a good twenty minute spell from Barnet, Shrewsbury began to push forward again. Both teams were showing how much it meant to them, this was being shown by the number of reckless challenges, leading to numerous free kicks. With just over twenty minutes left tempers started to flare. After a Shrewsbury attack was foiled, by what seemed a reasonable challenge the referee gave a free kick. However, Shrews attacker Duane Darby was incensed by the challenge and ended up toe to toe with Barnet’s Danny Maddix. In the end the pair were separated, but this wasn’t the end of the trouble. From the free kick Shrewsbury very nearly went ahead. An audacious attempt from Wales Under-21 midfielder, Jamie Tolley nearly caught Shane Gore out, however his powerful, dipping effort went just over.

Just two minutes later Barnet thought they had re-taken the lead. After ending the Shrews good spell through some good defending the Bees pushed forward again. From a dangerous corner by Joe Gamble, Grazioli got enough of a touch to send the goalwards. However, Tinson appeared to clear the ball off the line, only for Plummer to knock it back in, this time with the ball ending up in the net. Unfortunately for Barnet the celebrations were short-lived, the referee giving Shrewsbury a free kick for pushing.

Barnet were now frantically attacking Shrewsbury, however they were not finding it easy to break them down, some rather ridiculous challenges flying in from all angles. Tolley saw yellow for a disgraceful tackle on Grazioli and Duane Darby, who was becoming increasingly less popular with the Bees fans, saw yellow for a separate incident. The bad challenges began to get the Barnet players wound up, and it was unclear whether Clist replaced Lopez because he was injured or just getting frustrated.

It was looking more and more likely the game was going to end all square, Barnet were all over Shrewsbury, but they just weren’t taking their chances. First, Grazioli had a great chance, however his connection was poor and his effort was saved by Howie. Then with three minutes left Hatch wasted a great chance. After Strevens shot deflected off a Shrewsbury defender the ball rolled towards Liam Hatch. With Howie stranded, from an earlier save, all that was needed was for the long legged striker to connect. However, he couldn’t stretch far enough, the ball just missing him and going out of play. With four minutes of added time to be played there was still hope, but it looked as though Barnet would have to go into Monday’s game needing to win.

However, in the fourth of the ninety four minutes came what could be one of the most important moments of Barnet’s season. Hendon played a good through ball for Yakabu to run onto down the right hand side. With time to look up the Bees youngster sent in a dangerous cross. As the ball came into the six yard box Bees sub’ Clist went for the diving header. Despite not connecting very well the ball, possibly helped by a slight deflection, beat Howie and went into the bottom corner. The large Underhill crowd went wild! Very soon after, with the goal celebrations still going on the referee signalled fro full time, bringing down the curtain on a dramatic game.

It was definitely fair to say this game was like the old cliché, ‘a game of two halves.’ Although Barnet scored early on, Shrewsbury were by far the superior side in the first half. Obviously Paul Fairclough said something at half time, because the Bees looked like a new side, allowing Shrewsbury very few opportunities. It was vital that Barnet won tonight, because the trip to Gay Meadow will certainly not be easy. Shrewsbury have a superb record at home this season, although Barnet are on of only two teams to win there, beating the Shrews 1-0 in September. It will certainly be a tough game, Paul Fairclough saying the Gay Meadow will be like a “cauldron” and that there will be a “magnificent atmosphere”. Although hopefully it will be the Barnet fans with something to shout about at the final whistle!!

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix, King, Yakabu, Gamble, Lopez (Clist), Strevens, Hatch, Grazioli

Unused Subs: Millard, Redmile, Rooney, Pearson

Bees Goals: Strevens (pen), Clist

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Danny Maddix

Attendance: 4171

It was clear to see both players and supporters alike were up for this. Even during the warm up the players received encouragement as the stadium began to fill. There were two changes to the Bees line-up from the one that drew at Northwich last week. Matt Redmile was ruled out with flu, so veteran player coach Danny Maddix came in at centre back, partnering Chris Plummer. The other change saw Ben Strevens return from a toe injury, the twenty four year old was re-called at the expense of Mark Rooney.

Prior to kick off there was a sense of optimism around Underhill. In the last two meetings with the railwaymen the Bees had scored four and with a big backing the Bees players looked confident as they took to the pitch. Barnet began the match at a fast pace, immediately putting the part-timers on the back foot. Both Grazioli and Hatch looked dangerous in the opening stages, however Leigh denied them any early clear cut chance.

With ten minutes gone Barnet were by far the superior side, however on a rare attack Leigh gave themselves a great goal scoring chance. Lively little winger Tristram Whitman, formerly of Doncaster and Tamworth, raced into Barnet penalty area, only for his run to be ended by Ben Strevens. To the horror of much of the stadium the referee blew his whistle and pointed to the spot. Despite RMI’s disappointing season McNiven has been one of the few bright spots and not surprisingly the ex-Northwich man made no mistake in beating Gore from the spot.

This goal seemed to fire up the Bees and straight from the restart they began to put the pressure back on Leigh. Within a minute of going behind Grazioli was put through. However, a great save by the feet of Ian Martin denied the Barnet number nine. Seconds later he fired the ball just wide of the post from a low Yakabu cross. It looked as though once again Grazioli was going to have a difficult afternoon, three months to the day since his last goal.

Barnet continued to persevere for the equaliser, the powerful Yakabu giving one time Barnet man Michael Price a torrid time down the right. Barnet were now completely in control. After looking dangerous from a number of corners it was fitting that it was a cross which the Bees equalised from. A good cross from Joe Gamble was superbly met on the edge of the area by Ismail Yakabu. The youngster’s bullet of a header flew past everyone, including Leigh ‘keeper Martin, the ball flying into the top right corner. Underhill was in raptures, partly relief, but mainly excitement.

After scoring Barnet continued to dominate, once again Grazioli missed a good chance. Liam Hatch also had the opportunity to score. On three separate occasions the Barnet striker wasted the chance to make it three goals in his last three games. However, his work rate remained high and it was unfortunate that his good through ball was poorly finished by Strevens.

However, despite the constant pressure the Bees went off level at half time. However, with Aldershot trailing and Exeter drawing, Barnet were currently still in the play-off places.

The second half continued in much the same way as the first had ended. The Bees continued to press forward, however they were not taking their chances. An effort from the edge of the area from Strevens forced Martin into another good save, Grazioli also went close shortly after, but yet again Martin was on hand to keep the scores level.

Eventually the Bees domination paid off. After struggling for goals and confidence for the last three months Grazioli finally banged in his twenty fourth goal of the Conference season. Gore’s long kick was played forward by Hendon and found Grazioli unmarked, with the goal gaping. This time he made no mistake and cooly tucked the ball past Martin, just like he would have done throughout the first part of the season. Once again Underhill went wild, as Barnet took the lead for the first time.

The Bees refused to sit back on their lead and went in search of a third goal. Shortly after Grazioli’s goal, yet another goal bound effort from the recently called up England non-league forward was saved. However, this time it was not Martin who kept the ball out with his hands. Leigh substitute Liam Coyne stupidly handled the ball, preventing Grazioli making it three. Instead Barnet were awarded a penalty. After the euphoria he created after scoring against Burton, Hendon stepped up. Once again, the Barnet captain went for power rather than accuracy. His powerful penalty, heading towards the roof of the net was excellently saved by the impressive Ian Martin.

Hendon’s penalty miss, his third of his six penalties this season, added to the drama. However, at 2-1 the Bees were still in the play-offs and looked pretty comfortable. With just over ten minutes to go Fairclough made his first switch. Clist, a sub for the second week running, replaced Ben Strevens. Clist almost immediately had an impact. Hatch’s cross sailed across the box and had Clist made his run a split second earlier he probably would’ve headed home. Leigh, now down to ten men were not causing Barnet any problems. However, there was always the chance that Leigh could have had a lucky break and the worst could happen for the Bees.

Late on the Bees continued to push forward, winning absolutely every midfield battle and spraying some good balls around the pitch. Barnet proceeded to make further changes. Rooney replacing Yakabu, who put in a solid display down the right. On-loan Greg Pearson also came on briefly taking goal scorer Giuliano Grazioli up front.

Although under no pressure the finish was very tense. The support didn’t wane at all, but the nerves on the faces of the Bees fans told the story. However, deservedly Barnet held on and booked their place in the play-offs! Overall Barnet were by far the better team, although mainly due to a great goalkeeping display by Martin failed to score as many as they probably should have.

So, despite the shaky last couple of months the Bees deservedly made it to the play-offs, finishing fourth after Aldershot could only draw with Tamworth. Therefore Shrewsbury Town will be making the second visit to Underhill in less than a month on Thursday night. Although they won the meeting between the two in late March barnet will still be confident of overcoming Jimmy Quinn’s men. Either the Bees have achieved what they set out to do, reach the play-offs. Thursday night will I’m sure be a very interesting game.

Finally, I have to be slightly un-professional here and say, ‘COME ON YOU BEES, YOU CAN DO IT!!’

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Maddix, Plummer, King, Yakabu (Rooney), Gamble, Lopez, Strevens (Clist), Hatch, Grazioli (Pearson)

Unused Subs: Millard, Roache

Bees Goals: Yakabu, Grazioli

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: A team effort!! I don’t think I can really pick just one individual as the all worked so hard. The midfield were very good, although I must give Graz a special mention for not giving up, when he so easily could have let his head go down. Well done to all the players, they were all excellent!

Attendance: 2984

Barnet gave Senegalese midfielder Guy Lopez his first appearance in months, the Barnet number eight had been suffering from an ongoing hamstring problem. The Bees “football advisor” Paul Fairclough played Lopez just off Grazioli, with Strevens on the left and Rooney re-called on the right. Williams failed to make the squad and Des Hamilton was once again absent.

The game started at a reasonable tempo, with most of the play in the midfield. Neither side wanted to concede an early goal, both content to play the passing game. The opening quarter of an hour saw very little goal mouth action from either side.

Barnet’s first chance came on fifteen minutes. Lopez went up for a header just inside the penalty area, after the ball had bounced kindly into his direction. However, challenging for the ball Lopez collided with the Bulls ‘keeper, Matt Baker. Although it seemed like a fair fifty-fifty Baker went down and the referee stopped play. Surprisingly and some what harshly Lopez saw yellow and Baker won a free kick, much to the displeasure of the travelling supporters.

After this incident the Bees enjoyed a good spell. Barnet were looking increasingly dangerous, down the right in particular, with Rooney and Hendon overlapping each other very well. Barnet proceeded to win a number of corners and even a free kick in a very good position. However, they weren’t capitalising, Strevens free kick going straight into the Hereford wall.

After having a good quarter of an hour Hereford began to show the Bees why they are second in the table. Like the Bees they were looking good outside the area, but weren’t really causing many problems. However, on thirty six minutes Scott Willis gave Hereford the lead. After a collecting the ball just outside the box the Bulls number twenty two (and Cilla Black’s nephew!) skipped past Rooney before unleashing a powerful shot. The shot took a deflection of Hendon’s shin, which wrong footed Barnet 'keeper Gore and flew into the top corner.

The Bees responded well to going behind and went in pursuit of an equaliser. Like in the earlier stages Barnet won a few corners, Redmile looking Barnet’s biggest threat in the air. Just before the break Grazioli nearly forced Tretton to score an own goal. A dangerous low ball was played across the six yard box from Clist. However, Grazioli couldn’t get to it. Yet putting Tretton under pressure forced the defender to stab the ball wide for a corner. However, this didn’t amount to anything and the Bees went off one down at half time.

Like the first half neither side were creating any early chances at the start of the second period. The first real opening fell to Hereford striker Steve Guinan. The Bulls number nine was put through and looked destined to score. However, Gore continued his good recent form making an impressive save. The Bees number one made himself big and knocked it round the post. After Hereford’s chance the Bees started to push forward. Barnet’s first effort off the second half came from Ben Strevens. The Bees longest serving player miss hit his effort from just outside the area. Slicing it high and wide into the crowd. However, on the hour the referee, Mr. Lewis gave Barnet a golden opportunity. In a scramble inside the Hereford penalty area Ben Strevens was hauled down. Much to protests of the Hereford players the ref stood by his decision. After a lot of hassle Ian Hendon stepped up. The Bees skipper thumped the ball towards the bottom right hand corner. However, he was denied by a brilliant save from Matt Baker. Baker turned the ball away and Travis quickly cleared for a throw. As King went to gather the ball there was a bit of aggro. A can was thrown from the Hereford fans, which hit Bees midfielder Simon Clist. This led to both sets of players pushing and shoving, even Bees ‘keeper Shane Gore was involved. However, nothing serious happened, Willis the only player booked.

After the penalty miss Barnet still pushed forward, but found it hard to create anything. With the game still in the Bees grasp they had to throw everything at them. Yakabu replaced Rooney, but Barnet just couldn’t create an opening.

In the seventy sixth minute Hereford controversially put the game beyond the Bees reach. The Bulls striker Steve Guinan went down very easily after what appeared to be just a slight nudge from Matt Redmile. However, like with the Bees penalty the Mr. Lewis stood by his decision. Like in the game at Underhill in August the Hereford captain Tony James stepped up and also like in that game he made no mistake. James’ penalty sending Gore the wrong way and putting Hereford 2-0 up.

Following Hereford’s second not much happened. On eighty minutes however Hereford were reduced to ten men. The scorer of the first goal Willis got his marching orders for a second bookable offence after a crunching tackle. Barnet almost grabbed a consolation when Grazioli chased down Lopez’s slightly over hit through ball. However, under pressure from Tretton the Bees top scorer only managed to feebly poke the ball into the arms of Baker. Immediately after this Guinan nearly gave Hereford a very undeserved third goal. Like in the early stages of the half the Bulls twenty three goal striker was put through. However this time Gore didn’t have to make a save as his shot across goal went wide of the far post. Shortly after this the whistle blew and the Bulls had one 2-0.

In truth this was a very harsh score line, this had probably been Barnet’s best performance since Morecambe back in February and a draw was the least they deserved. Although the play-off dream isn’t totally over it’s looking increasingly unlikely now. However all hope is not lost. With Chester beating Exeter the Bees are still in with a shout. The final three games are all, on paper, fairly straight forward. Barnet must show their real quality now, starting with Burton on Easter Monday.

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Plummer, Redmile, King, Rooney (Yakabu), Gamble, Clist, Strevens (Taggart), Lopez (Pearson), Grazioli

Unused Subs: Millard, Maddix

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Guy Lopez

Attendance: 4447

Barnet made four changes from last week’s draw at home to Chester for the trip to the Lawn. One of the two caretaker managers, Ian Hendon, was suspended and he played Mark Rooney at right back due to his absence. Chris Plummer was once again an unused sub, possibly because he may not be one hundred percent fit. Therefore other caretaker boss Danny Maddix once again partnered Matt Redmile. Shane Gore returned in goal for the Bees after Bankole returned to Crewe in midweek to cover for injuries. The Bees other change was Greg Pearson getting his first start, with Liam Hatch dropping to the bench. Surprisingly new signing Des Hamilton wasn’t in the squad, presumably due to injury.

Barnet started the match well. Forest Green barely got a touch in the opening ten minutes, with the Bees enjoying nearly all the possession. However despite this Barnet failed to create any real early openings. Williams looked to be the biggest threat to Rovers early on, making some darting runs down the right flank, but his crosses were causing no trouble. Barnet’s first opening came after quarter of an hour. Clist played a good through ball which Grazioli latched onto. However the Bees top scorer was being forced wider and wider and in the end panicked and scuffed his shot feebly across the face of Perrin’s goal and wide.

After this Barnet started to get into their stride and in the twenty fifth minute went ahead. Ben Strevens won a dubious free kick about twenty yards from goal. From the free kick Gamble touched it to Strevens and from twenty yards the Bees number ten marvellously curled the ball past Perrin into the top corner. This was yet another brilliant effort form the Bees current longest serving player

However, after Barnet had taken the lead Forest Green began to play. Just four minutes after Strevens’ goal Rovers were level. Sykes had played a good ball forward which had been received by Rogers. As the Rovers attacker entered the penalty area Danny Maddix came in with a strong challenge. To the surprise of most the referee pointed to the spot. Damon Searle stepped up and dispatched the penalty superbly, sending Gore the wrong way.

After the equaliser it went back to how it had been before, Barnet on top and Forest Green defending. On thirty five minutes the Bees should have been back in front through Greg Pearson. The eighteen year old striker got through one on one with Perrin, but was well denied by the big goalkeeper. However the youngster should’ve really scored or squared it to Grazioli.

Perrin’s goal was now under intense pressure, but Barnet weren’t taking their chances. One minute before half time it was amazing how Barnet failed to score. Williams’ corner was met by big Matt Redmile, whose header was blocked on the line. However Grazioli came sliding in, but somehow his effort went just inches wide of the post and kept the scores level. Shortly after the scrambled effort from Grazioli the half time whistle went, Barnet somehow not in front.

Once again Barnet began well and had Rovers on the back foot right from the start of the half. One minute in and Grazioli again went close. Williams’ low cross was met by the striker, but his snapshot went just wide of Perrin’s near post. Forest Green were getting run ragged, but were still in a good position because Barnet just couldn’t hit the target. Even left back Simon King tried his luck, however his long range effort hit Pearson in the face and trickled out for a goal kick. Barnet were getting a bit frustrated, Grazioli missing another chance, firing his shot over the bar on the hour mark.

Williams and Rooney were linking up well on the right, with Rooney overlapping well. However, they weren’t producing anything to cause Forest Green trouble and Williams was replaced by Yakabu. Barnet’s domination continued, but Perrin wasn’t being forced into making any serious saves. With seven minutes to go Hendon took of on-loan Pearson and brought Hatch. This failed to have any effect, Hatch barely touching the ball in his brief appearance.

After barnet being all over them throughout in the final two minutes Rovers twice managed to conjure up an attack. The first time Rovers sub McAuley was put through, but some good pressure from King forced him wide, and his eventual shot sailed over the bar. Again Rovers got through with Scott Rogers this time breaking away. However Danny Maddix made an excellent recovery and an even better tackle to deny Forest Green a possible late winner.

In the end time ran out for Barnet and they had to settle for a 1-1 draw. There really was no justice in this result, Barnet were on top from start to finish and only had one point to show for their efforts. Although Tim Harris has done a very good job since his arrival at the Lawn, this really was a lucky point for Rovers. The referee’s decisions didn’t help, but really Barnet’s finishing is what let them down. Tuesday night’s fixture at home to Shrewsbury is now even bigger than it already was, it is essential that the Bees win and keep their promotion hopes alive. However, if Barnet are going to get as much luck as they did today the run in really will be an uphill struggle.

Barnet: Gore, Rooney, Redmile, Maddix, King, Williams (Yakabu), Gamble (Taggart), Clist, Strevens, Grazioli, Pearson (Hatch)

Unused Subs: Millard, Plummer

Bees Goal: Strevens

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Greg Pearson

Att: 1013

Barnet 0-0 Chester City

Despite Martin Allen’s departure this still was Barnet’s biggest crowd of the season and also the biggest crowd of the day in the Conference. Caretaker manager Adrian Whitbread made just one change form the side that drew at Gravesend, top scorer Grazioli returned from injury and replace Mark Williams, who was dropped to the bench. Chris Plummer was also available again, but wasn’t risked and spent the afternoon on the subs bench.

Both sides began the game reasonably brightly, both sets of fans getting right behind their side. The first effort of the afternoon came from City’s number six Alex Smith. After scoring a fabulous goal in the same fixture at the Deva back in November Smith fancied his chances. However, is audacious thirty yard effort sailed over the bar, no doubt the wind playing a part, as it was to all afternoon.

The strong winds were affecting a lot of long balls and crosses. Neither side were really able to create chances, partly due to this and partly due to solid defending from both sides. Chester’s defence were enhancing their reputation, not allowing the Bees a sniff at goal. Barnet’s first chance of any sort came just after the half hour mark. Gamble’s effort rebounded went out to the edge of the box where Ismail Yakabu tried his luck. However, the eighteen year olds effort was a poor one, going well wide. All the same it was encouraging that Barnet were starting to look more dangerous.

Chester ended the first half well. In the forty second minute substitute Chris Lane got through and blasted the ball past Bankole, unfortunately for City he was caught offside. Shortly after came another good chance. Good cross by McIntyre was flicked on to Stamp. Just yards out the twenty goal striker looked destined to score but his effort was full of power and no accuracy. A minute later the half time whistle blew, to bring a rather dull opening period to a close.

Barnet began the second half well. In the first five minutes of the restart Grazioli missed Barnet’s best chance yet. Hendon’s cross was met by the Bees striker, but he didn’t connect cleanly enough and the ball went wide of the post. Barnet however were looking much better and very lively. Again Grazioli was given an opportunity. Bankole’s monster kick up the field was chased down by Grazioli and City defender Collins. With both players tussling for the ball it appeared that one made contact with the ball using their arm. However the ref, Mr. Singh, gave nothing and Collins cleared any possible danger.

After a good spell from Barnet, Chester created a chance. Stamp was put through, but under pressure from Maddix. Bankole came racing out and made a good block with his feet from Stamp’s low shot. However, after the ball was cleared Bankole fell badly on his way back to goal. It was obvious to see that the Barnet ‘keeper was in some discomfort. However, instead of kicking the ball out of play City played on. Were it not for Hendon’s clearance Chester may well have taken full advantage and scored. After some treatment from Doyle, Bankole carried on. After one unsporting gesture City gave the ball back to Bankole for a goal kick. Shortly after Chester had another chance. Joint top scorer in the league Daryl Clare found space in the box. Yet surprisingly the ex-Boston front man dragged his shot wide of the far post.

It was now becoming quite an end to end type of game. After a couple of Chester chances it was Barnet’s turn again. Ben Strevens’ effort forcing a save from City’s on-loan Everton goalkeeper, Ian Turner. With time running out Chester substitute Michael Twiss thought he was through after getting the better of Ian Hendon, but a very good, well timed challenge from Maddix denied him his chance to shoot. Ben Strevens nearly won it for Barnet, after making a neat little run he let fly from just over twenty yards. However, his curling effort was too high and ended up going over the bar.

In the end neither side could create that chance and both sides had to settle for a point. It was a very tight game, in which really both defences came out on top, the likes of Grazioli, Clare and Stamp were all tamed by the opposition defence. Maybe to win the game barnet should’ve brought on Pearson after his impressive performance at Gravesend last week.

It was good to see the spirit the Barnet players showed after what has been a tough few days for them. Both before and after the game they gave the crowd a good reception, at the end even the unused subs and injured players came on the pitch to salute the fans. However, by six o’clock more bad news for the Bees players and fans. After Allen going to Brentford late on Wednesday, it was announced that Whitbread and Doyle will be following him there. Therefore skipper Ian Hendon and vastly experienced Danny Maddix will be taking charge of team affairs until a permanent replacement for Allen is found.

Barnet: Bankole, Hendon, Maddix, Redmile, King, Yakabu (Williams), Clist, Gamble, Strevens, Hatch, Grazioli

Unused Subs: Gore, Taggart, Plummer, Pearson

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Joe Gamble

Att: 2455

Despite the Bees lack of chances Gravesend were also not creating much as the game began to turn very dull. The only real incident in the closing stages of the first half was the booking of former Barnet right back, Lee Gledhill, for a dreadful tackle on Hatch. This led to the former fans favourite, becoming quite the opposite with the large following from Barnet.

When the referee signaled the end of the first half, it was clear to see that martin Allen was fuming. The Barnet manager had looked agitated throughout the first half and the players were definitely in for a stern half time team talk.

At half time Martin Allen made a substitution. Ismail Yakabu, who had had a quiet first half, was replaced by on-loan West Ham forward Greg Pearson. The switch led to Strevens pushing out to the left wing and Pearson and Hatch leading the line, up front.

Barnet: Bankole, Hendon, Redmile, King, Maddix, Yakabu (Pearson), Williams (Lopez), Gamble, Clist, Hatch, Strevens

Unused subs: Gore, Taggart, Henry

Bees Goal: Pearson

Att: 1516

Barnet were without Plummer and Rooney through injury, and also decide to bring in Guy Lopez at the expense of Ismail Yakabu, due to the return of Simon King. Stevenage were without Carroll, Goodlife and ex-Barnet left back Lee Flynn. Aside from these three, Boro had a full set of players to choose from. Barnet went into the game as the favourites, and would go above Shrewsbury, and back into third if they won. Boro need all the points they can get if they are to keep their fading play-off ambitions alive, and would be up for this one for certain.

After all the waiting and hype the game finally began. Both sides began reasonably well, a lot of good passing in the midfield from either side. It was very tight and in the early stages there were no clear chances.

After the quarter of an hour mark Barnet started to get into their stride and carve out some chances. Grazioli and Hatch were both looking sharp up front, and were sure to give Bunce and Laker trouble throughout. Some nice work out on the right by the Bees saw the game’s first chance. Liam Hatch went on what is now becoming a trademark winding run and got in behind the Boro defence. However, the angle wasn’t in Hatch’s favour and his powerfully hit shot went wide of the post. Nevertheless this was encouraging from Barnet as they had started to find cracks in the Stevenage back line.

Barnet were playing well, playing some neat football and looking a lot more dangerous than their North Hertfordshire counterparts. Grazioli was looking promising, but although he was making some good runs off the ball he wasn’t seeing much of it himself. In the twentieth minute the former Boro striker chased after a through ball, only for Stevenage ‘keeper Perez to get their first. However as Perez gathered the ball he also collide with Grazioli, landing very awkwardly on one of his legs. Initially it didn’t look as though any damage had been done, but shortly the Boro physio was called on. After a good four minutes Perez was eventually stretched off. Later on scans showed that the French goalkeeper broke both his tibia and his fibula. I’m sure I speak on behalf of all of Barnet’s supporters when I say that I hope Perez makes a full and speedy recovery, genuinely get well soon Lionel.

Boro replaced Perez with former first choice ‘keeper Mark Westhead. Within five minutes of coming on Westhead made a big impact. The substitute goalkeeper making a tremendous one handed save, from Liam Hatch’s close range effort. Barnet were still in control and Ben Strevens forced another save from Westhead, but the linesman flagged for offside. The Barnet striker come winger was making his hundredth appearance for the club, the current longest serving player, at only twenty three years of age.

After a good spell of Bees pressure Stevenage began to settle down and start to look a bit more dangerous. Like in the early stages Boro were maintaining possession well in the middle of the park. In particular Justin Richards looked a threat. Out wide and in the middle when the former Bristol Rovers attacker got the ball, there always looked like something mat happen. The Boro captain Watson was playing some good balls forward and making some good runs himself. However, despite now appearing to have found their feet in the game Stevenage weren’t looking any sort of threat to the Bees goal. Bankole had to gather, rather than save the ball on a number of occasions, and was put under no pressure.

Shortly after the half time whistle blew after six minutes of stoppage time. Stevenage ending the half on top, although over all Barnet were looking the better side. With just over two thousand in the ground, both sets of fans were creating a superb atmosphere. Even during the half time interval the singing didn’t stop, as the banter between the fans carried on right through the break!

The second half started in a similair way to the opening forty five minutes. Once again, good passing, but no real chances. However, the tempo had risen since the start and before long both sides began to look dangerous. The two sides looked most dangerous from crosses and set pieces. This was the trend for much of the second half, Redmile getting forward at every opportunity for Barnet. After the hour mark Stevenage, for the second time, enjoyed a good short spell of pressure. Yet, once again there were no clear openings and anything that ‘Big George’ was given he dealt with well.

The game’s first moment of controversy came in the sixty seventh minute. As Hendon gathered the ball for a throw he was given a slight push. In response the Barnet captain pushed Brennan back and almost immediately several players got involved in a rather silly fracas. Both Ben Strevens and Ian Hendon were booked for barnet, Brennan saw yellow foe Boro. It was now turning into a real derby game, tackles flying in all over the place, some nice football and a phenomenal atmosphere. However, just three minutes after one incident occurred, another took place. Renowned for giving his all, Ian Hendon went in hard in the challenge on Brough. This again sparked a bit of trouble more pushes and shoves being exchanged. However, what next happened looked like it could be a turning point. Referee Mr. Booth, brandished the red card to Hendon for a second bookable offence. Total uproar on and off the pitch as the Bees were now going to have to battle on with ten men. After much protest Hendon trudged off. From the free kick Boro caused no problem, Bankole catching the ball easily before booting it up the park.

Three minutes later Liam Hatch was flying forward at full speed. His run came to an abrupt halt when Tunisian attacker Dino Maamria caught Hatch, sending him tumbling to the ground. This time the largest brawl of all took place. After the Barnet physio Dominic Doyle came on to treat Hatch it al really ‘kicked off’. Maamria was shown a red card for violent conduct and on his way off knocked Doyle to the floor. Doyle then reacted and every player on the pitch, bar Bankole, joined in the mass brawl. The confrontation went on for at least two minutes, event the linesman on the far side had to run to the opposite side of the pitch to try and stop it. Barnet had Mark Williams booked in the incident, after the sub entered the field without consent, everyone backing their own side. Only Watson was booked for Boro although on another day many more cards would’ve been shown.

After the red card it went back to football rather than fighting! With even numbers again Barnet were in control. Clist’s effort flew over the bar but still was an encouraging sign for the Bees. Grazioli, who had had a quiet second half almost, got the connection a free kick after turning his marker well in the six yard box, but Westhead gathered the ball well. Stevenage were keen to hit the Bees on the break, but they just couldn’t conjure up a decent chance.

With five minutes left Gamble was put through. It looked like this might be the moment, but the little Irish midfielder was closed down well. Not panicking he neatly laid it to Ben Strevens, twenty yards from goal Strevens took two touches before striking the ball sweetly, in the direction of the bottom corner. Yet despite the fabulous effort, the brilliant Mark Westhead was more than up to it, turning it round the post for a corner. Nothing happened from the corner and it looked like Boro were going to make that break they wanted. However, Bankole leaped and caught Elding’s cross well.

In stoppage time Pearson came on for his Underhill debut. In his short spell he looked good, in particular, a superb flick to Grazioli. Yet neither side could find the net and the referee blew for full time with the score ending 0-0. Although only taking the point Barnet played well and on another day may well have one. Now in three meetings at Underhill Barnet have never scored a home league goal against Stevenage. Despite no goals it was a very entertaining game, the atmosphere really helping things. Unfortunately there were a lot of cards; five players on each side saw a card of either yellow or red. So, maybe no the exact result Barnet were looking for, but a good performance nonetheless, in a real derby game.

Barnet: Bankole, Hendon (s/off), Redmile, King, Maddix, Gamble, Lopez (Yakabu), Strevens, Clist (Pearson), Grazioli, Hatch (Williams)

Unused subs: Gore, Taggart

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Matt Redmile

Attendance 2066

Barnet were looking for revenge after a humiliating home defeat to the Grecians back in October. The Bees went into the game without influential left back Simon King, but Yakabu, another injury worry, was fit for selection. Hatch for King was the only change to the starting line-up from last weekend’s home win against Tamworth. Martin Allen once again opting for Redmile and Plummer at the heart of the defence, with Danny Maddix left out.

The game didn’t start at much of a pace. Both sides going for the cautious approach in the early stages, neither wanting to give away an early goal.

After the slow start Exeter started to settle down and began to put pressure on the visitors. On the right hand side, James Coppinger, a major factor in the Grecians victory at Underhill, was looking dangerous as usual. The Bees were giving the blonde haired winger far too much space and he was capitalizing on this with some excellent mazy runs.

One of the most comical features in the game was the battle of the number twenty two’s. Barnet had the huge Matt Redmile in the twenty two shirt, whether as Exeter had tiny striker Les Afful, who couldn’t have been much over five foot at most! The comical theme nearly continued as Barnet almost went in front. A long back pass took Bittner completely by surprise and were it not for a late and dramatic save from Bittner’s feet the Bees could have been a goal ahead.

However, it was Exeter who were in control and on the half way mark of the first half they took the lead. A long ball forward from Exeter’s veteran midfielder Kwame Ampadu appeared to be over hit and on its way out of play. However, pint sized attacker Afful refused to give up and raced after the ball. Barnet goalkeeper, Bankole saw the run late, therefore mis-timing his own dash to get to the ball. Afful just beat Bankole to it, the big Nigerian forced the City forward wide, but Afful went round him well, and swung in a precise cross. With the Bees defence pushed up former Barnet favourite Sean Devine was in the six yard box to head into the empty net. Following his goal, Devine rather un-professionally ran post the Barnet supporters, taunting them and pointing to the name on the back of his shirt.

Devine’s goal gave Barnet a reason to start pushing forward and creating chances. Almost immediately Hatch went very close, his effort from just inside the area going inches wide of the post. Although Exeter looked a constant danger with Coppinger on the wing the Bees were now settling down. In the thirty second minute Grazioli forced Bittner to make an outstanding save, stopping Grazioli’s goal bound effort at full stretch. With time before the interval fading the Bees thought they had equalised. Among a crowd of bodies Grazioli appeared to head passed Bittner to pull Barnet level. However, the referee blew his whistle, and finally amidst a lot of confusion awarded Exeter a free kick. Barnet created one more chance before the break, but Exeter’s England non-league international made yet another good save, this time from an Ian Hendon effort.

The second half began with Exeter very nearly doubling their lead. Devine was given the perfect chance, but Bankole got down well to save his close range effort. After this early scare the Bees settled down and really grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck. The introduction of Mark Williams for Rooney seemed to be a good one as the Bees went about causing Exeter problems down their left hand side.

After a good period of pressure the Bees managed to level the scores. Some good passing by Hendon and Strevens saw the ball played out wide to Williams. Looking up, the substitute hit an inch perfect cross straight to the head of Liam Hatch. The big striker leapt up and sent a beautiful looping header over the head of James Bittner into the top corner of the Exeter goal. After waiting fourteen games for his first goal Hatch had now made it back to back goals, two in his last two games.

The goal seemed to spur the Bees on and it looked like if anyone was going to score in the remaining twenty five, that it would be Barnet.

With just under twenty minutes to go the Bees won two corner sin succession. Gamble’s first cross was headed back out for a second corner, and the second cleared for a throw. The quickly taken throw went to Williams, who had come over to the left. The former Brentford player then swung in another brilliant cross, finding Strevens at the back post. The Bees longest serving player’s header went across the goal, and to the feet of Redmile who was in the six yard box. In mad scramble Redmile stabbed at the ball but didn’t get a clean enough connection. In the madness two Exeter players threw themselves at the ball before Dwayne Lee cleared.

With seven minutes on the clock the Bees handed a debut to on-loan attacker Greg Pearson. The West Ham youngster replaced top scorer Grazioli, but in his brief appearance didn’t see much of the ball, he did have one effort on the closing stages, but it was too powerful and ended up flying over the bar.

Both sides went for the all illusive winning goal, but neither found it and the ref called time with the game ending as a draw. After a slow start the Bees picked up and on another day may well have taken maximum points. However, this was still seen as a good result, as shown by the players response to the fans at the end. On Tuesday night Barnet entertain rivals Stevenage, many Bees fans see this as one of, if not the, biggest home game of the season. If Barnet can play like they did in the final half an hour of this game then should be hot favourites for the win.

Barnet: Bankole, Hendon, Redmile, Plummer, Rooney (Williams), Yakabu, Gamble, Strevens (Lopez), Clist, (Pearson), Hatch, Grazioli

Unused subs: Gore, Maddix

Bees goal: Hatch

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Liam Hatch

Att: 3531

In the meeting at the Lamb back in October, the Bees put in one of their worst displays of the season, going down 0-2 to a Mark Cooper double. Despite some seeing that as a turning point for the Lambs, Tamworth have struggled most of the season and went into the game in nineteenth place. However, after a very good run the Staffordshire side went into the game top of the form table and with a point to prove.

Barnet went into the game with a full squad to choose from, including new signing Greg Pearson on-loan from West Ham. However, the eighteen year old attacker remained an unused sub. Despite being available again Maddix wasn’t in the squad, Martin Allen giving a home debut to Matt Redmile who partnered the returning Chris Plummer in the centre of defence.

Barnet began the game brightly, playing at an extremely high tempo. Rooney and Yakabu were looking dangerous on the flanks but Tamworth were putting up a good resistance. The game’s first real chance came in the sixth minute. Big centre back Redmile had pushed up for a set piece and nearly marked his home debut with a goal. Muscling the ball of the defending the ex-Scarborough man knocked the ball over his own head goalwards. Unfortunately for the Bees his effort went just over, but it was an encouraging start nonetheless.

After the early effort the Bees were in control, but didn’t seem to know what they wanted to do with the ball. Barnet were on top but not looking at all settled. Too many passes were being intercepted in the midfield and Grazioli was getting no service up front. To make matters worse the on form Ismail Yakabu had to go off injured I just the twenty third minute. The versatile youngster landed awkwardly on his leg and went off in what appeared to be quite serious pain. He was replaced by Liam Hatch, who came on up front, with Strevens switching to left midfield.

With a dull first half drawing to a close the Bees nearly nicked a late first half goal. Gamble’s chipped free kick was met by Plummer, but the former QPR defender headed just inches wide of the post. A few minutes later the referee called time on a forgettable first half, only two real chances coming from the Bees centre backs had been only moments of excitement. Tamworth’s game plan was obviously to put as many players behind the ball as possible and frustrate the Bees. So far they had done exactly that, meaning the score was 0-0 at the interval.

At half time Barnet made their second substitution of the afternoon. Left back Simon King appeared to be in some discomfort before the break and was replaced by right winger Mark Williams. The switch meant Mark Rooney moved across the pitch into the left back role.

After the half time break the Bees came out looking much better. Grazioli was now a lot more involved and for a change was the provider of the Barnet goal. After Hendon’s free kick Grazioli retrieved the ball out on wide on the right and swung across for the advancing Liam Hatch to score his first league goal in Bees colours. Underhill went mad as at last the summer signing from Gravesend had broken his drought. The goal was almost a complete reversal to normal, Grazioli crossing it for the other striker to score!

After the goal the game picked up a bit and Tamworth started to get forward. On the hour Tamworth won a free kick in dangerous territory. Arguably the best free kick taker in the conference, Mark Cooper, stood behind the ball. However, this time it didn’t go right for Cooper his effort going straight into the Bees wall.

The more Tamworth pushed forward the more likely a break was going to happen. Twice the Bees went surging towards the Tamworth goal, only for sloppy passing to cost them. It was now becoming interesting as Tamworth were starting to look dangerous. An audacious effort by Cooper, from all of forty five yards nearly caught Bankole off guard. Luckily for him and his team mates the ball sailed just over the bar. That still wasn’t the end from the Lambs skipper his third attempt rolling just wide from twenty five yards.

Barnet were looking good too, Strevens unlucky not to score a goal similair to the one at Morecambe last week. This time it went just wide of the top right hand corner. Barnet then made their final substitution, surprisingly replacing earlier sub Williams with Guy Lopez. Tamworth still pushed forward but couldn’t get past the solid Plummer and Redmile along with ‘Big George’ in goal. Strevens once again was unlucky, forcing a good save out of James Lindley.

Not long after Strevens’ effort the referee blew his whistle for full time. This was definitely not the Bees best performance of the season by any means, but it was three points. Redmile was an absolute rock and thoroughly deserved to be man of the match although Plummer was excellent too. Not playing well and winning is the sign of a good team. Probably the best moment of the day was Liam Hatch finally ending his quest for his first league goal, a quest which had taken thirteen league games prior to Tamworth. All in all a very pleasing result for the Bees, although they know they can expect a very different sort of game in next week’s trip to Devon to play Exeter.

Barnet: Bankole, Hendon, Plummer, Redmile, King (Williams) (Lopez), Rooney, Gamble, Clist, Yakabu (Hatch), Strevens, Grazioli

Unused Subs: Gore, Pearson

Bees goal: Hatch

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Matt Redmile

Att: 1899

In front of the Sky TV cameras both teams were eager to impress. However both teams were also clearly nervous and this showed by the quiet start to the game. Neither side wanted to give anything away in the early stages, meaning there were very few chances. The first scare of game came in the tenth minute. Bees debutant Matt Redmile’s back pass was nearly latched onto by Tony Sills, but luckily for the Bees big George Bankole was out quickly and took the ball around the striker before clearing. However, shortly after Barnet started push forward and play some nice passing football.

Clist and Gamble were linking up well in the middle, with King and Hendon overlapping the midfield and making good runs down the flanks. Aldershot, with the second best home record in the league, were keeping it tight at the back, marking Grazioli extremely closely. However, with the defence very focused on Grazioli Hatch was given a bit of space. The six foot three attacker was proving to be quite a handful for the ‘Shots defence.

Barnet were quite firmly in control now, and on twenty five minutes won the games first corner. Gamble’s whipped ball was missed by almost everyone in the box, before being cleared. However, Bees skipper Ian Hendon retrieved the ball well and sent one of his trademark long cross-field balls to Simon Clist down the left hand side. A good run, which was ended by a good sliding tackle, earned the Bees their second corner in as many minutes. Once again Gamble took and whipped high into the area. This time it was met almost straight away. Barnet’s new centre back Redmile rose well and flicked the ball goalwards. Despite only getting a feint touch the ball, much to his surprise, beat everyone and went into the bottom corner of Nikki Bull’s net. This sparked wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stand. The large Bees following going completely mad behind the goal.

However, just ninety seconds after scoring Redmile was under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. An error at the back had let pacey forward McLean get through on goal. With Redmile struggling to catch him, it appeared that the big centre back had pulled him down. Luckily for Barnet he wasn’t the last man, but the Aldershot players certainly felt that a red card was necessary. Fortunately for Barnet the new boy escaped with just a yellow, but the ‘Shots had won a free kick in a very dangerous position. Miller struck the ball well but failed to get any height and hit the Barnet wall.

After this threat the Bees looked comfortable for the remainder of the first half, having just one more effort, from Liam Hatch. The orange haired striker curled the ball from the edge of the area, but failed to cause Bull any major problems. Shortly after Hatch's effort the half time whistle sounded, the Bees going off one up at the break.

At half time Aldershot made two changes, and immediately looked much better. Straight from the beginning of the second period the ‘Shots pushed forward, pressuring Bankole’s goal for the first time.

Until the hour mark Aldershot were firmly in control, but Barnet didn’t want to lie down completely and soon began pushing forward again. The Bees started to drive forward in numbers and were it not for a good save from a Simon Clist attempt Barnet could’ve put the game beyond doubt. However despite enjoying a good ten minutes Aldershot once again got going. The influential Adam Miller very nearly levelled the scores, on two occasions. The first attempt came from outside of the box. With a lot of space the midfielder took his time before shooting. Miller’s effort lobbed Bankole, but luckily for Barnet the ball hit the bar, bounced out and was cleared by King. Miller again went close when he all but beat the Bees defence, only for Bankole to pull of a fine stop and knock the ball over for a corner.

With just ten minutes remaining Aldershot were desperately looking for an equaliser, and after much persistence they found one. Hooper’s long ball into the box was headed across the area by the troublesome striker Aaron McLean and straight into the path of number nineteen, Jon Challinor. Inside the six yard box it would’ve been harder to miss and Challinor made no mistake slotting under Bankole. Poor marking cost the Bees dearly, as now they had to once again push forward if they wanted to make maximum points.

With two minutes to go both sides wanted to grab the winner. An error in the Aldershot defence gave the Bees a very good chance. A good ball by Grazioli was poorly headed by Aldershot’s experienced captain Ray Warburton. Deflecting of Hatch the ball fell to Strevens with the ‘keeper stranded. However, Lee Charles threw himself in the way of Strevens’ effort and got the ball away. Aldershot too went close in the closing stages. A dangerous low cross from Hooper missed everyone and nearly crept into Bankole’s bottom corner.

In the end neither side found that all important winner and the referee blew the whistle meaning the spoils were shared. Martin Allen afterwards said that although a point was a good result, he felt disappointed that Barnet had played so well and not won. He said “My boys gave it their all tonight, and I’m very proud of them.” Over the ninety minutes a draw seemed to be the fair result, the old cliché ‘a game of two halves’ certainly applied here.

The Bees played well, Matt Redmile enjoying a fabulous debut, along with a good all round performance. Though it was disappointing to have not won a draw was a good result. If the Bees can maintain that standard of football for the remaining thirteen league games they will most certainly be there or thereabouts.

Barnet: Bankole, Hendon, Redmile, Maddix, King, Yakabu, Clist, Gamble, Strevens, Hatch, Grazioli

Unused Subs: Gore, Taggart, Rooney, Williams, J. Smith

Bees goal: Redmile

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Simon King

Attendance: 4271

On Friday the Bees made two new signings, goalkeeper George Bankole from Crewe on a three month loan, and twenty two year old winger Simon Clist, on an eighteen month contract from Bristol City. Both players went straight into the starting eleven with Bees number one Shane Gore dropping to the bench. The Bees made other changes, with Pitcher leaving this week in came Clist and Gamble returned from suspension to replace Lopez.

The game began slowly. Neither side showed any early signs of a goal and it looked quite clear that Margate were more than willing to play like this throughout. After a dull opening ten minutes Barnet started to get going. It was down the right hand side where the Bees looked most threatening. Both Yakabu and Hendon were making darting runs, but weren’t delivering a good enough final ball.

The game was proving to be quite a non-event with no real opportunities. However, the Bees went close on twenty five minutes when Grazioli got behind the defence, but failed to connect cleanly with the ball, which gently rolled into the arms of Smith. However, the conference top scorer was just warming up, and soon he scored the game’s opening goal. After being given a very similair opportunity to his earlier chance he made no mistake. The Islington born attacker got his body around the ball before putting it past Smith into the bottom right hand corner. The goal was much need and from that moment on the game changed completely.

Barnet were now looking hungry and kept pushing forward, putting the ‘Gate defence under a lot of strain. In the Barnet midfield new boy Clist was playing an influential role, winning almost everything. After a good ball by Clist the Bees thought they had doubled their lead. Clist’s dangerous ball appeared to miss everyone although Hatch tried his hardest to get a touch it went into the net. Yet the celebrations were short-lived as the linesman flagged for an offside against Hatch.

Still the Bees continued to persist and once again got there reward. On forty minutes Strevens laid the ball of to left back Simon King, still searching for the ‘wonder goal’ he promised the Bees fans when he arrived. However, despite getting a lot of power behind the ball King’s effort was parried away by Smith. The Bees didn’t give up though as Gamble collected the ball out wide. Looking up the on-loan Reading man chipped the ball into the box where the unmarked Giuliano Grazioli headed home his twenty fifth goal in all competitions this season.

Barnet’s second looked as though it would kill Margate off, however after this goal Margate began to try and push forward. Ex-West Ham and for a short time Barnet attacker Emmanuel Omiyimni was leading Margate’s attack and on the stroke of half time nearly got Margate back into the game. Following a good run he was all but one on one with Bankole. However, he caused the new Bees ‘keeper no problems, firing wide of the post. Shortly after the half time whistle blew and the Bees went off with a two goal lead.

Barnet started the second half the better of the two sides and it was easy to see that Margate were going to struggle. Barnet’s most dangerous player was Liam Hatch the former Gravesend striker was proving to be a real handful as he went in pursuit of his first Barnet league goal.

However, despite Barnet having the better of the play Margate snatched a goal. A long ball hoofed up field was not properly cleared by Maddix and fell into the path of John Keister. Maddix then committed to Keister who played a lovely through ball to Omiyimni, who was now behind the Bees back line with only Bankole to beat. Bankole was quick off his line and just as he was about to go down to make the save Omiyimni stabbed it underneath the experienced Nigerian to make it 1-2.

However there was to be no great fight back from Margate as the Bees continued to pour forward in numbers. Hatch was still taking Margate apart down the right hand side.

After several runs Hatch was finally stopped, although extremely unfairly, and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Porter’s rash tackle gave the Bees a penalty at home for the second week running. Despite missing last week the captain Ian Hendon once again stepped up. Showing great character the Barnet skipper fired the ball into the roof of the net to kill of any chance of a comeback.

After the third the Bees were just coasting. Hatch was still pressing but just couldn’t find the net. At one point the tall striker even tried to punch the ball into the net! Unfortunately for ‘Hatchy’ it wasn’t to be and the scores remained at 3-1 until the end.

An all in all very good display from the whole Bees side, although Hatch was outstanding and so were debutant Simon Clist and Giuliano Grazioli. Chris Plummer was solid at the back and will be sorely missed during his three match ban. Strevens also put in another great display, the Bees longest serving player arguably playing the best football of his career. After a mixed week for the club it was necessary to pick up three points, and with Aldershot being hammered 4-0 at lowly Farnborough the Bees go back up to third. After the FA’s decision to throw Barnet out of the FA Trophy there is no match for the Bees until Aldershot, in front of the Sky cameras on February 6^{th. Hopefully the long rest will benefit the players, who come the Aldershot game will be fully fit and ready to clinch some more valuable points.}

Barnet: Bankole, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix (Williams), King, Yakabu, Clist, Gamble, Hatch, Strevens (Taggart), Grazioli (Lopez)

Unused Sub: Gore (the Bees only named four substitutes)

Bees goals: Grazioli (2), Hendon (pen)

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Liam Hatch

Att: 1591

Barnet had nearly a full strength side to choose from, with Joe Gamble the only absentee due to a one match ban. The Bees will also given a boost by Liam Hatch making his return after a knee problem. Dagenham were also at pretty much full strength, among their line-up was former Bees custodian Danny Naisbitt, wearing the number seventy three shirt! Like the Bees Dagenham went into the game in good form, in their last league game Daggers trounced high flying Shrewsbury in 5-0.

The game looked like it was going to be a good one, and the early stages really reflected this. Both teams started well, the Bees were slightly on top, doing well in the middle with Geoff Pitcher giving Barnet a real drive going forward. After the first ten minutes the game showed signs of getting even livelier. Both sides looked keen on getting the games first goal and had Grazioli beaten the offside trap he might have. However Daggers wanted to create chances too and were beginning to look a threat.

Despite a good start from Barnet it was the visitors who took the lead. A dangerous low cross from Bruce was cleared off the line by Simon King, but unfortunately for the Bees King’s clearance deflected straight back into the net off the knee of Chris Plummer. The goal took Barnet completely by surprise, but they were determined to get back into it.

Almost straight away the Bees went in search of an equalizer and soon found one. A good forward ball saw Grazioli beat the defender and the offside before cooly knocking the ball over Naisbitt’s head to make 1-1. The goal took Grazioli’s league account to twenty goals, already equalling Junior Agogo’s tally for the whole of last season.

The games frantic pace continued and it was only a matter of time before another goal would come in this expected goal fest. The game was also becoming quite physical, neither side afraid to make the tackle. Shortly after the twenty minute mark the Daggers re-gained their lead. Once again a cross from the left hand side caught the Bees out. Former Farnborough winger Piper sent the ball in for Daggers skipper Tim Cole to make it 1-2. The goal seemed to be due to a bit of an error of judgement in the Bees back line, meaning Shane Gore came out way to far, allowing Cole’s header to be calmly flicked over him.

The excitement continued and almost immediately after going behind a foul on Yakabu won Barnet a penalty. With Grazioli missing his last two and Hendon scoring his last two responsibility was given to the Bees captain. However, the wild celebrations prior to the penalty were soon cancelled out as former Bee Danny Naisbitt made himself a Dagenham hero. Hendon struck his penalty with power but no accuracy and hit it straight down the middle allowing Naisbitt to pull of a fine save. Lopez tried to do something from the rebound but didn’t connect cleanly and watched the goal go out of play for a goal kick.

On the half hour mark the Bees made what seemed like a very odd change bringing on McNamee for Yakabu. Yakabu had been having a good game and was showing no signs of an injury, yet was still replaced by the on-loan Watford winger. There were no more goals before the break although Dagenham’s on-loan QPR attacker Richard Pacquette missed a great opportunity, when he was put through one on one with Gore. However, the big front man’s shot flew over the bar and went behind for a goal kick. Shortly after this the half time whistle went and the Bees were trailing 1-2.

Neither side made any changes at the interval, but Dagenham looked much better in the opening minutes of the second half. Just three minutes after the restart Pacquette was given almost an identical chance to his earlier effort. Unfortunately for Dagenham instead of redeeming himself he finished identically to his earlier effort too. However this missed opportunity was just Dagenham getting warmed up. In the fiftieth minute Dagenham number seven Mark Janney made a darting run down the right hand side. After getting past King he began to cut inside the Bees penalty area. Then, spotting Gore off his line he executed a delightful chip over the Bees ‘keeper to give the East London side a two goal advantage.

The Bees were now in a very difficult position and would have to dig deep to salvage anything from the game. Shortly after the goal Liam Hatch went close after taking on two players and shooting. However, his effort went just wide of the post, not forcing a save out of Naisbitt. Naisbitt was fast becoming a real hero for Dagenham as his former employers piled on the pressure.

With twenty five minutes left Martin Allen replaced Hatch with Williams. Within two minutes of coming on he nearly got a vital goal. In a mass scramble in the Daggers six yard box the Bees right winger nearly scrambled the ball in. However his touch wasn’t powerful enough and Cole cleared off the line. The torrent of Bees efforts on the goal continued, but Naisbitt was pulling off some good stops. Plummer and Grazioli were both denied by Naisbitt as Barnet’s frustration grew.

Dagenham were still looking for more goals and Moore was causing Maddix all sorts of problems at the back. The Bees defending wasn’t solid but they were not giving Daggers any clear cut chances. Plummer had appeared to have moved up front so Maddix was left on his own in the middle.

Eventually Barnet’s pressure paid off. For the second time Grazioli beat the offside trap and this time headed past Naisbitt into the bottom corner. With four minutes remaining the Bees still had hope, but unfortunately some ugly scenes followed the goal, denting the Bees chances. After picking the ball out of the net Naisbitt un-sportingly belted the ball into the stand. In the heat of the moment Plummer reacted angrily, pushing Naisbitt to the floor and allegedly leading with his elbow. Naisbitt fell to the floor like a tonne of bricks and stayed down for a long time. Meanwhile, much to the unawareness of the Underhill crowd Chris Plummer was red carded. Naisbitt’s actions were causing some angry scenes from the Bees fans on the North Terrace, as the goalkeeper stayed down. After a large melee and a lot of anger aimed at Naisbitt the game restarted.

When announcing the goal the tannoy man encouraged the Bees fans to get behind the players. The fans reacted well and gave it their all in the closing stages. With the fourth official indicating that there was to be five minutes off stoppage, the Bees were full of hope. Some supporters may have been remembering a comeback against Lincoln City in very similair circumstances a few years ago. Barnet should’ve equalised in the ninety first minute when Danny Maddix had a chance from twelve yards. Yet the veteran centre back failed to keep his cool, and blasted the ball way over the bar.

With Barnet throwing everyone forward Dagenham gained possession and sent a long clearance up field. Daggers midfielder Danny Hill won the ball and capitalizing on a mistake by Pitcher sprayed a lovely through pass for Moore. The attacker ran onto it and beating the Barnet defence got through one on one with Gore. He then thumped the ball over Barnet’s number one and into the roof of the net to seal the points for Dagenham. The travelling supporters went wild as the home supporters headed for the exit.

Very shortly after Moore’s goal the referee blew the whistle for full time. The players went off very disappointed. Despite pressurizing the Daggers goal for long spells this was definitely wasn’t one of the Bees better displays. The defence didn’t have a good game and Gore also had a game he’d rather forget. The other negative thing was Plummer’s red card, meaning a ban that could rule him out of the Bees televised game at Aldershot. With an FA hearing on Tuesday to see if Barnet will be kicked out of the FA Trophy for fielding an ineligible player against Dover, things are not looking so wonderful at this current time.

However, Barnet have got to bounce back, the next match is a Hertfordshire cup game at Cheshunt on Tuesday evening. Hopefully the Bees will have a good day and progress to the Herts Cup semi-final as well as staying in the FA Trophy. After the make or break cup day on the 20^{th its back to picking up points in the league on Saturday, when Margate come to Underhill. Let’s hope that next Saturday at five o’clock the Bees will still be on course for a potential treble, getting the promotion attempt back on track by beating Margate.}

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix, King, Hatch (Williams), Pitcher, Lopez, Yakabu (McNamee), Strevens, Grazioli

Unused subs: Millard, Rooney, Taggart

Bees goals: Grazioli (2)

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Ben Strevens

Att: 2006

Going into the game the Bees only had one major absentee, other wise ever-present centre back Chris Plummer was unavailable due to suspension. With no Plummer, Yakabu filled in at centre back alongside Maddix. There were also places for Williams and Taggart, with McNamee on the bench and Geoff Pitcher not in the squad. Halifax were pretty much at full strength and it looked like it could be a very close game.

The game started with both sides looking quite tense, neither team managing to create any clear cut opportunities in the opening stages. However, when play began to settle down it was the home side who took control. The Shaymen were passing the ball around well, and not allowing the Bees possession. In the twentieth minute the Halifax fans thought their side had taken the lead. Yet somehow the ball, which beta Gore, hit the inside off the post and bounced out, but this was a severe warning to Barnet. After a lot of Halifax pressure the Bees began trying to mount an attack of their own. A swinging cross from Williams, which was well met by Strevens, nearly gave Barnet a goal on the break. Unfortunately for the Bees Strevens’ header hit the bar and went behind for a goal kick.

Barnet’s spell of pressure didn’t last for long, almost straight after Strevens’ effort Halifax regained control. On thirty six minutes Mallon was charging forward, before being brought down by Maddix, who was booked for unsporting behaviour. Town were awarded a free kick just on the edge of the area. From the initial free kick any threat was blocked, however the ball which was heading for the touchline was retrieved and whipped into the penalty area. This time the Bees were punished, some slack marking allowed former Sheffield United attacker Lewis Killeen to head firmly past Shane Gore to give Halifax the lead. Halifax thoroughly deserved the goal, and barnet could have no complaints about being a goal down at the break.

Barnet began the second half well. The Bees players were linking up considerably better than in the first half and they were playing some good football. However, in the opening five minutes despite the good start to the half the Bees didn’t really look like scoring. Halifax’s defence were keeping strong and were attempting to have a go on the break, but Barnet’s defence also were holding out well. Barnet needed to be more creative if they were to get back into the game, hence the introduction of the tricky Anthony McNamee, replacing Tony Taggart on the left hand side. On the right flank Williams had been trying hard all afternoon, but wasn’t really pulling much off. However a good through ball by Lopez found the former Brentford man in space. Just as he was being closed down he cooly stroked the ball across the edge of the box. The pass fell straight in front of Bees attacker, Giuliano Grazioli. With Town ‘keeper Cartwright approaching Grazioli kept his cool and stabbed it under Cartwright to level for the Bees in the fifty fourth minute. Apart from Strevens’ earlier effort against which hit the woodwork this was Barnet first clear chance.

The goal gave the Barnet players a major confidence boost, and they began to press for a second. In the midfield for the Bees the re-called Lopez was battling superbly and winning nearly everything. At the back for Barnet it was a similair story, Yakabu and Maddix both looked very solid. The Bees were now playing some good football, Ian Hendon was now pushing forward but instead of playing the ball in the air he was knocking it about neatly on the ground. A nice one two with Lopez gave Hendon a chance with a shot. His rasping effort from twenty five yards was only parried by Cartwright. Unfortunately for Halifax it was deflected straight into the path of Ben Strevens who bundled in the Bees second. At the other end of the ground the Bees fans set off on a mad terrace run, and at the other end ‘Super Ben’ set off on a celebratory run of his own.

Immediately after the second Barnet carried own going forward and just three minutes after Strevens’ first they thought he’d scored a second, when he met McNamee’s cross and headed home. However this was disallowed for offside.

Halifax started to get going again and with twenty minutes to go still had a good chance to draw things level. Farrell and Killeen both looked dangerous up front but, the creative players Ryan Mallon and former long serving Northwich man Val Owen looked most likely to do something. With fourteen minutes left Barnet had Ismail Yakabu booked for a foul on Mallon, just on the edge of the area, out wide. The balls was swung in and were it not for some poor heading from Farrell the Bees could’ve been pegged back. This chance was followed by two poor final efforts from Mallon, one from Killeen and in the eighty ninth minute Val Owen was desperately unlucky with a spectacular effort, sailing just over the crossbar. Amidst all this Halifax pressure Barnet made a couple of breaks and corners. On one break had Lopez not taken such a hard touch then he may have sealed the points by rounding Cartwright for number three.

It was a very nervous finish for the Bees who twice already this season have thrown away games in a similair position (Scarborough and Woking). However, despite the referee playing double the amount of injury time that the fourth official showed, Barnet hung on. After three disappointing performances over the Christmas period the Bees finally picked up a win, on the ninth day of Christmas! Next week Barnet take a break from league action as they host Dr. Martens league side Dover Athletic to Underhill in the FA Trophy round three. The Bees will be hoping they can keep up their unbeaten record in 2004 and make sure that there is no free Saturday for the Bees fans on FA Trophy fourth round day!

Unused substitutes: Millard, Henry, Campion

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Giuliano Grazioli

Bees goals: Grazioli, Strevens

Attendance 1517

The Barnet line victory at Telford last week. The Bees gave four debuts; three were starts, along with a home debut for Geoff Pitcher. Tricky winger Anthony McNamee on loan from Watford, Tony Scully on a non-contract basis and eighteen year old Gary Silk, on work experience form Premiership Portsmouth all started the game. Also making his debut, as a substitute, was Adam Campion who signed from Aylesbury last week. In total Barnet had four loan players on the pitch. Gamble, Pitcher, McNamee and Silk along with non-contract player Tony Scully.

Barnet started the game brightly, the pacey McNamee instantly making an impression on the Bees fans. However it was one of the other debutants, Tony Scully who played for Barnet in pre-season, who nearly opened the scoring for Barnet. Scully’s early effort forcing a good save from Boro’s goalkeeper Mark Osborn. Despite starting quite well Barnet didn’t really have any fire power up front. Liam Hatch, who dyed his hair amber and black!! Was Barnet’s only available natural attacker. Mark Williams, generally a midfielder, played as a striker.

After a good first fifteen from the Bees Farnborough began to settle down. The second bottom Boro were searching for the first away win of the season, the only team in the league yet to record an away win. However, Farnborough were looking good, forcing Shane Gore into action on a number of occasions. Farnborough were playing better than their high flying counterparts, Barnet finding it very difficult to create anything. However, when they did break Boro down all they got was a corner. Williams got through one on one with Osborn, who appeared to pull him down. Yet, instead of pointing to the spot the ref, Mr. Murphy, gave a corner and booked ‘Willow’ for dissent.

Shortly before the break Farnborough won a debateable free kick, near the touchline on the left hand side. Hodgson sent the ball into the box, where it was met by the head of Nick Burton. The Farnborough number four rose above the Bees defence and headed past Gore, giving Boro a shock forty second minute lead.

The Bees responded well to going behind and nearly equalised before the break. Amidst a big scramble Barnet had several attempts, Tony Scully’s saved effort ended the scramble. Scully then again had another chance, although he hit it straight at Osborn. However, the incident packed first half, which saw the referee booking five players, two Barnet (Plummer and Williams) and three Farnborough, ended with the struggling Hampshire side one up.

The second half started with Barnet on top. McNamee was once again causing trouble on the wing, but not much was happening in the box. The game became fairly dull; on sixty three minutes Farnborough old boy Tony Taggart replaced the quiet Mark Williams up front. However, this change failed to inspire Barnet who were creating chances but just didn’t look like scoring. Another scramble occurred, but once again nothing came from it. Despite creating chances it just seemed that Barnet weren’t going to score. Anthony McNamee’s wayward shot summed this up.

Barnet made two more substitutions; first Adam Campion replaced McNamee for his Bees debut and ten minutes later Soloman Henry replaced Tony Scully. The young subs were both eager to impress and Campion could have been a hero were it not for Hatch’s selfishness. Thirty yards from goal, with options on both sides, Campion the better, Hatch had a shot at goal. However it was very badly struck, earning the Bees a corner, when a pass may have resulted into a goal. Unfortunately for Barnet like all their other corners it was very un-effective.

With Barnet hunting for an equaliser Farnborough went up the other end in search of a second. With time running out, and with Barnet short at the back a Ryan Semple rocket clinched a shock away win for Boro. Semple, twenty yards from goal, unleashed a mighty shot, past Gore into the roof of the net. The away supporters went mad as their struggling side recorded their first away win of the season.

The whistle blew, leaving the Barnet fans shocked and disappointed. Too many new faces and loan players were in the team; some were only signed yesterday, giving them only just enough time to learn their team mate’s names!

At the end of the day Barnet simply weren’t good enough. Boro gave it their all and earned three massive, vital points. Barnet were down to their bare bones with no Grazioli, Hendon, King, Strevens and Maddix. Still, with Aldershot and Exeter slipping up too and Shrewsbury’s game postponed barnet remain third. To be third at Christmas is a big achievement, and hopefully the Bees will get back on track at Woking on Boxing Day.

Unused substitutes: Millard, Lopez

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Anthony McNamee

Att: 1547

Supporters Match:

Prior to the first team fixture supporters of both clubs took part in a highly entertaining match on the fields behind Underhill.

Barnet won the game 5-2, the goal scorers were Ashley, Tony ‘Boney’ Fenton who scored a hat-trick and half time substitute Will (fatbee).

Barnet opened the scoring around 25 minutes in when a good finish by Ashley made it 1-0. It stayed 1-0 at the break, despite Keith Doe’s best efforts! Shortly after the break Tony grabbed a second and Barnet were in control. Shortly after the second the ginger attacker grabbed his second to make it 3-0. It looked as though it was game over, but Boro’s fans thought otherwise. Thanks to some dodgy keeping by half time substitute Ross Clarke Farnborough pulled one back. With about twenty minutes to go this reporter came off the bench, replacing da33a in midfield. To show the positive effect my appearance made Farnborough scored again. A cross going over Ross’ head and straight in. However any chance of a Farney comeback was dismissed when Will cooly slotted past the ‘keeper on a one on one. With just over five minutes remaining the Bees scored the final goal. Tony Boney, who had come back on after being subbed hammered home a rebound form all of a yard. This gave him his hat-trick, which was thoroughly deserved following several missed chances, two of which hit the woodwork. The game ended 5-2 to Barnet, with several players making good impressions on manger Buster.

Here is (I think) the team: Robin, Ross, Zero, Barnsley, Dan, Chris, Mikel Bee, Sam, da33a7, Ryan, Ashley, ‘Cottee 9’ (sorry mate I don’t know your name!), Springer, Granato, Evanstribe, Craig C, Welshbee (me!!), Keith, Tony, Will and the manager Buster.

Man of the Match: Tony Fenton, although Sam Ruff was quality at left back-just remember I brought him, if it weren’t for me he wouldn’t have played!!

Unused Subs: Millard, Lopez, Campion

Bees goals: Pitcher, Grazioli

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Geoff Pitcher

Attendance: 1562

The red army were out in full voice, the majority of them wearing Santa hats! Martin Allen also contributed wearing a very ‘interesting’ red jacket prior to the game.

The game itself started franticly. Yeovil looked very dangerous early on, and were it not for a miss hit shot could have had a very early lead. Barnet had their backs against the wall as Yeovil continued to push forward early on. The Bees had barely had the ball in Yeovil’s half when they went behind. Just nine minutes in Colin Pluck headed Yeovil ahead, leaving Gore helpless. Three sides of the impressive stadium went mad, leaving the red army in silence.

However, the Bees fans weren’t silent for long. Straight from the re-start the ball was played out to Simon King on the left hand side. The former Oxford left back swung in a beautiful cross, which was met by Beadle. The big front man connected superbly, beating Weale, and pulling Barnet level within a minute of going behind.

Unfortunately for Barnet this seemed to spur Yeovil on. The Glovers were once again firmly in control and Barnet were now having to defend. Under intense pressure Maddix tried to clear with a diving header. However, the Bees centre back didn’t connect, the ball bouncing against his hand. Despite no appeals Yeovil were awarded a penalty. The impressive Gavin Williams stepped up and did what had to be done. His well-struck penalty sent Shane Gore the wrong way and put Yeovil 2-1 ahead.

Unlike the first goal Barnet didn’t respond, and Yeovil continued to push forward. Williams looked by far Yeovil’s most dangerous player, so it was no surprise when he made it 3-1. Crittenden got away from Plummer and Maddix, before rounding Gore. At too much of an angle to shoot he squared the ball into the six-yard box.

Maddix seemed to have it under control; however his slow reaction was capitalized on by Williams, who put the ball through the Jamaican’s legs to make it 3-1. With sixty-three minutes still remaining things weren’t looking good for Barnet. The Glovers looked rampant and the Bees were being completely out played. The half time whistle couldn’t come soon enough for Martin Allen and his troops. Hopefully ‘Mad Dog’ could rally his troops for a famous come back; they were going to need something special to get back into it.

At half time Liam Hatch replaced the unusually quiet Joe Gamble. Barnet looked slightly more confident now, and were not afraid to push forward. Liam Hatch was instantly making an impact. A good run down the left, which ended in him being fouled gave the Bees a chance from a set piece.

The free kick wasn’t in shooting range, but interestingly Ben Strevens stood behind the ball. The long serving striker lofted the ball over the wall, but no Bees player connected. However, the ball nearly ended up in the back of the net. Only a late reaction by Weale prevented Barnet pulling one back, although they were then given a second bite at the cherry. Bad handling by Weale gave Plummer a chance, but he hit the outside of the post and Yeovil cleared.

With quarter of an hour left Yeovil killed the Bees off. Barnet had been pressing all half, but hadn’t really created much. However every time the Glovers went forward they looked dangerous. The influential Williams made a bursting run before laying the ball off to ex-Chelsea player Nick Crittenden.

He then hammered the ball past Gore to make it 4-1. The Barnet player’s head’s were now firmly down, and this gave Yeovil a fifth goal. In similar fashion to the fourth Barnet were cut open, this time by Gall, and much-travelled forward Jake Edwards slotted home for 5-1.

Yeovil then sat back and Barnet feebly pushed forward. The Bees afternoon was summed up when Hendon’s flick on from a corner went the wrong way. The referee did Barnet few favours all afternoon as well. Mr. Parkes ended up booking six Bees players, compared to just two Yeovil. The strangest decision of the afternoon came when substitute Mark Williams was pushed over. Despite clearly being pushed to the ground the referee gave a free kick Yeovil’s way!

All in all this was a very disappointing afternoon for the Bees. Despite Mad Dog and the Red Army’s best efforts Barnet were totally slaughtered. Yeovil looked a classy side from start to finish, definitely promotion candidates for Division two. Next week it’s back to the real business in the Conference, a tough trip to Telford for Martin Allen’s men. Hopefully there will no FA Cup hangover as the Bees continue their quest for a place back in the football league.

Barnet: S.Gore, I.Hendon, S.King, C.Plummer, D.Maddix (M.Rooney 78), I.Yakabu, J.Gamble (L.Hatch 45), G.Lopez, B.Strevens, G.Grazioli, P.Beadle (M.Williams 53)

Unused substitutes: L.Hogg, R.Millard

Bees Goal: Peter Beadle

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Guy Lopez

Att: 5973

Barnet were without leading scorer Giuliano Grazioli and Liam Hatch through injury and Yakabu only made the bench. Yakabu’s absence gave Tony Taggart a starting place for the first time since the LDV Vans game with Brentford back in October. Peter Beadle also returned up front and Mark Williams also made his first start in three games.

With no Grazioli Forest Green must have been quietly confident of not conceding many goals. However, just like many home games this season Barnet found themselves ahead early on. Simon King made a good run down the left, and with plenty of space and time laid the ball back to Tony Taggart, just inside the ‘Rovers penalty area. Taggart, not known for goal scoring, unleashed a fabulous shot past the diving Perrin into the top corner. The Bees fans went wild as the ex-Farnborough player celebrated his first goal in Barnet colours. Yet again the Bees had taken the lead within the first few minutes of a game at Underhill.

Following the goal Barnet relaxed a little and a misunderstanding between Maddix and Plummer nearly gave Kevin Langan a chance to equalise. Apart from that one opportunity the Gloucestershire side looked very unadventurous and didn’t look creating any real chances. After that lapse of concentration Barnet began to look dangerous again. Beadle, who missed Tuesday’s trip to Stalybridge through injury, was looking good on his return. The ‘Rovers defence were being put under a lot of pressure and inevitably Barnet doubled their lead. A good through ball gave Beadle a chance to score his first league goal at Underhill. The big front man did very well, beating the defender before calmly lashing his shot into the bottom corner. At 2-0 up Barnet were cruising and it didn’t look as though there was anyway back for Forest Green, the Bees went in two up at the break.

Barnet again started the second half convincingly, with ‘Rovers immediately under pressure. Beadle and Strevens were both looking dangerous and it was only a matter of time before the third. Coming up to the hour mark, Williams received the ball out wide on the right. The twenty two year old winger then sent in a teasing cross which was met at the back post by Bees number twelve, Peter Beadle. He brilliantly out jumped his marker and sent a looping header over ‘Rovers ‘keeper Perrin. Once again Underhill burst into mad celebration, with chants of ‘Beadles on a hat trick’ ringing around the East Terrace.

The game was now completely over as a contest, but Barnet needed more goals to get closer to Chester and Aldershot’s impressive goal differences. Luckily for the Bees a fourth was soon to follow. Following a poorly hit shot which flew over Ben Strevens needed to redeem himself. Despite the teams good display Strevens had had a frustrating afternoon but made up for it with a superb finish. After receiving the ball twenty five yards out he ran at the Forest Green defence, he then curled the ball into the net from the edge of the area. Now at 4-0 up it just kept getting better and better for Barnet.

After the fourth Martin Allen decided to give youngster Soloman Henry a taste of the action and introduced him in the closing stages. Instantly the protec graduate was causing Forest Green trouble and after one penalty appeal turned down he won one in the final minute. However, this was at a cost as his first home league appearance ended with home leaving the pitch on a stretcher. With no Grazioli skipper Ian Hendon stepped up to take the penalty. The captain made no mistake, driving the ball home to make it an incredible 5-0!

Shortly after the whistle blew, drawing a wonderful afternoon to a close. With news that Aldershot had held Chester to a draw and Hereford losing to Shrewsbury, as well as Exeter’s draw at Leigh RMI . All in all this was a fabulous day for the Bees, next up the long trip to Scarborough on Tuesday-possibly the day when Barnet finally go to the top!

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix (Yakabu), King, Rooney, Williams, Gamble (Hogg), Taggart, Beadle (Henry), Strevens

Unused subs: Millard, Lopez

Bees Goals: Beadle (2), Taggart, Strevens, Hendon (pen)

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Peter Beadle

Attendance: 1348

The game started with both sides looking quite nervous, neither wanting to give anything away early on. Barnet started with an interesting midfield, strikers Strevens and Hatch started on the wings with Gamble and Yakabu in the middle.

After a tight first ten minutes the home side started to settle down and put the Bees under pressure. City were looking strong, but not putting much pressure directly on Gore’s goal. However they were winning a lot of corners and most possession was in Barnet’s half.

Barnet created very few chances in the first half, a quickly taken free-kick from Hendon, which was blocked by the head of a Chester defender, and a half chance which Grazioli feebly hit, giving Brown an easy save.

However, despite Chester being on top it didn’t look as though either side would be ahead at the break. Yet, some good play in the middle of the park led to a good ball being played to Alex Smith. Smith, who recently re-signed for Chester, was given all the space and time in the world as the Bees defence failed to close him down. Taking his time he looked up before unleashing a stunning shot which flew straight past Shane Gore into the top corner. Except for the South Stand, where the Bees supporters were, the Deva Stadium exploded as City went ahead. Once the celebrations were over the referee blew his whistle, and Barnet went in one down at the interval.

The second half began in a similair way to the first, neither side wanting to give a goal away. However, Barnet started to look a bit more adventurous when Williams replaced Hatch on the right wing in the opening minutes of the second half. The former Brentford player instantly started causing McIntyre problems down the right and this seemed to spur on the rest of the side. Hendon began to get forward more, supporting ‘Willow’ and sending some dangerous balls into the box.

Barnet were now in control and an equaliser was looking likely. From yet another Hendon cross the Bees thought they had at last drawn level. Williams laid it back to the Bees skipper who whipped a brilliant cross straight to the head of Yakabu at the back post. The tall eighteen year old headed the ball across the box straight to Grazioli, who instinctively stabbed home. Unfortunately the celebrations were cut short when the referee awarded Chester a free-kick for Yakabu pushing.

Luckily this didn’t dishearten the players who continued to push for the equaliser. Teenage striker Lee Roache replaced the unimpressive Beadle and within two minutes of coming on nearly headed his first goal. The ball was played over the top, but the youngster barely got a touch, only managing to connect with the back of his head, the ball went narrowly wide. Shortly after Barnet had another chance, following a scramble the ball fell to goal machine Giuliano Grazioli, six yards out, but the Conference top scorer couldn’t quite stretch far enough to connect.

The Bees continued to press but still no goal came. Chester hardly created anything all half, though a cross come shot nearly found it’s way in, deep in stoppage time. Unfortunately for Barnet time ran out, and the impressive and very loud following went home empty handed.

At the end the players, lead by captain Ian Hendon applauded the loyal Barnet supporters, despite losing they did themselves proud in the second half. Martin Allen looked bitterly disappointed, but will know he will have to lift the players spirits as they continue on their ‘conquest to paradise’ at Stalybridge, in Tuesday nights FA Cup replay.

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix, King, Hatch (Williams), Gamble, Yakabu, Strevens, Beadle (Roache), Grazioli

Unused Subs: Millard, Hogg, Rooney

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Danny Maddix

Attendance: 2638

After Saturday’s disappointment of throwing away a two goal lead Barnet were looking to make it three straight league wins. However, they knew this was not going to be easy, regardless of ‘Fleets lowly league position. Going into the game the Bees had not won in against Gravesend since January 1980, and in last season’s fixture at Underhill, Gravesend romped to a 4-1 win.

Martin Allen made three changes from Saturday’s FA Cup tie against Stalybridge. Liam Hatch was re-called against his old club, along with Williams and Lewis Hogg, who was returning from suspension. The three players out were Beadle, Lopez and Rooney, who failed a late fitness test.

Unlike most games at Underhill this season the game started at a slow pace with neither side creating any decent chances. The closest the Bees went in the first half was when Joe Gamble reacted well and headed the ball over the ‘keeper after O’Reilly parried a shot. However despite lobbing O’Reilly, Fleet’s big centre back Francis Duku headed the ball off the line. Barnet also went close when a powerful volley from Ian Hendon went just wide of the post.

Despite not creating many chances Gravesend were doing well and Barnet were finding them extremely hard to break down. Unfortunately the most influential figure in the first half was once again the referee. Mr. Woolmer seemed to be giving almost everything in Gravesend’s favour, and his linesmen were also making some odd decisions.

The second half, like the first, didn’t start particularly well. Gravesend were defending well and Barnet’s frustrations were growing. The game wasn’t being allowed to flow as the referee continually blew his whistle.

With just over an hour gone Beadle replaced Williams and instantly the switch in formation appeared to have an effect. Though despite looking better going forward, at the back things weren’t looking as good. Shane Gore made a number of good saves and was very impressive at collecting and punching the ball in the air.

Both teams were looking for a late goal and one looked possible when ‘Fleet got a break. Ben Abbey, who featured on trial for Barnet in pre-season at Weymouth, was put through with Danny Maddix in hot pursuit. Maddix appeared to make a very good tackle, despite coming in from behind, but Mr. Woolmer didn’t see it that way at all. After stopping play and awarding a free-kick, the Bees were stunned when he gave the veteran Jamaican defender a straight red card. The devastated Maddix went off looking very down, and Barnet now faced the prospect of playing the final stages with ten men. Straight from the free-kick Gravesend created a chance. The ball was played into the box and Gore was again forced to make a good stop.

Despite Gravesend getting forward Barnet refused to give up. In the third of the four minutes of stoppage time Hendon lofted the ball into the Gravesend penalty area. The brilliant ball went straight to the feet of substitute Ben Strevens, inside the penalty area. At too much of an awkward angle to go for goal Strevens squared the ball to defender Chris Plummer, who calmly slotted it past O’Reilly into the bottom corner of the net. This sent Underhill wild! There had been a very good atmosphere all evening, and the crowd’s celebrations showed just how much it meant to fans.

Out of nowhere the Bees had won the game, despite playing well below their full potential. However, a sign of a good side is one that can play badly and win and that’s just what Barnet did. This may have not been the prettiest way to win, but nevertheless it was definitely very exciting and dramatic.

Barnet will have to be considerably better on Saturday as they travel to new leaders Chester City. The Bees only trail them on goal difference and will go into the game full of confidence, that come five o’clock this Saturday they’ll be top of the league.

Barnet: Gore, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix (sent off), King, Williams (Beadle), Hogg, Gamble, Yakabu, Hatch (Strevens), Grazioli

Unused Subs: Millard, Taggart, Lopez

Bees goal: Plummer

Iain Dalziels Man of the Match: Shane Gore

Attendance: 1542

After not being allowed to take part in last season’s competition the Barnet faithful were very much looking forward to seeing their side play football league opposition. However, Martin Allen decided to give some of his younger players a chance. This appeared quite surprising, seeing as Brentford, two leagues higher, fielded a strong starting eleven.

The game started at a high tempo and after no more than seven minutes came the first goal. Lewis Hogg laid the ball to Lopez who struck a thunderous shot into the top corner from the edge of the area. The barnet fans were over the moon that their young side had gone ahead, and in such style.

Following the goal Barnet were very much on top. Norman Sylla, on his first start for the club was unlucky with a close range header. The Bees pressure continued and it was only a matter of time before they scored again. A handball by Brentford’s on-loan Chelsea defender Kitamarike gave Barnet a chance from the penalty spot. With no proven penalty takers in the Barnet line-up young protec graduate Soloman Henry stepped up. The debutant kept a cool head and slotted the ball into the bottom corner, sending Brentford ‘keeper Smith the wrong way.

After this goal Brentford looked better and nearly pulled a goal back before the break. Ben May’s header hit the woodwork and Joel Tabb also went close. However, the Underhill Bees went in at the break 2-0 ahead of their Griffin Park counterparts.

Brentford came out in the second half in the same way as they ended the first. The second division side started to cause Barnet’s youngsters a lot of problems, and the introduction Kevin O’Connor didn’t do Barnet any favours either. Inevitably Brentford pulled one back. Joel Tabb, who went close just before half time made up for his earlier miss with a good finish from twenty yards. Yet Brentford’s joy was short lived when, on fifty four minutes, Brian May saw red for violent conduct, for throwing Lopez down. This meant that in Barnet’s last three home games a visiting player has been dismissed.

Despite Brentford being reduced to ten men the game stayed very even. Barnet’s new goalkeeper Shane Gore, who signed that afternoon, was forced into making some good saves. Barnet began to look good again when summer signing Liam Hatch made his return, earlier than expected, from a cruciate ligament injury. The tall Canadian instantly started causing Brentford problems and had an attempt well blocked by Smith.

Just when the game looked as though it was Barnet’s, there was another twist. O’Connor was put through with just five minutes to go, but he appeared to handle the bouncing ball. However, the ref saw nothing and play continued. All he then had to do was beat Cumberbatch. Yet when he got into the area he collided with the young debutant and fell to the ground. The referee instantly pointed to the penalty spot, and dismissed Marc Cumberbatch. Brentford made no mistake from the spot-kick, Hunt sending Gore in the opposite direction. This took the game into extra time.

It didn’t look good for the tiring youngsters when Joel Tabb slotted home in the early stages of extra time. As it stood Brentford were going through on the ‘silver goal’ rule. Barnet refused to give up, one of many mazy runs from young Lee Roache ended with him hitting the post.

With just two minutes left of the first half in extra time, Brentford’s fans were already celebrating victory. However there was still another goal in this amazing game. Barnet were throwing everything they had at Brentford, and it eventually paid off. A scramble in the six yard box lead to Liam Hatch grabbing an equaliser on his return, in the hundred and third minute! At this point the majority of the Underhill crowd went wild, and the Bees kept the game going into a second period of extra time. The second spell failed to produce much and with the game having to be decided that night it went to penalties:

First went Brentford: Hunt-scored

Then Barnet: Hogg-scored

Brentford: O’Connor-scored

Barnet: Hatch-missed (over the bar)

Brentford: Kitamarike-missed (over the bar)

Barnet: Rooney-missed (over the bar)

Brentford: Dobson-scored

Barnet (had to score): Bai Mass-saved

Brentford won 3-1 on penalties

So, on a night that had two red cards, two penalties, six goals, extra time and a penalty shootout, Barnet’s young heroes went out, but this game will be in the memories of both sets of Bees fans for a long while.

Unused substitutes: Millard, J.Smith, L.Smith,

Bees goals: Lopez, Henry (pen), Hatch

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Guy Lopez

Attendance: 1248

Barnet started brightly in the late September sunshine, with Beadle and Grazioli causing the Shrewsbury defence plenty of early problems. However, Shrewsbury had begun well too, Luke Rodgers mazy runs reminding everyone why he has been linked to several premiership sides. Things weren’t looking good for Barnet when Rooney went down injured, after just 20 minutes. It looked bad so returning skipper Ian Hendon came off the bench to make his return earlier than expected.

However, it was the bees that went the closest in the first half. First Grazioli was unlucky, his close range volley going just over the bar. On some days we would have seen ‘Graz’ celebrating, but it wasn’t to be. Then barnet went close again, this time it was Peter Beadle. The big striker was winning everything in the air, and did well to connect with substitute Hendon’s cross. His brilliant header had shrews ‘keeper Howie beaten, but Beadle had to look on in despair as his effort hit the inside of the post and was cleared to safety. Shortly after Williams hit a long range effort, unfortunately this went way over; nevertheless this was a good end to the first half.

The second half began very much like the first half. Both teams looked dangerous, but neither team were creating many clear-cut chances.

However, when one finally came Barnet grabbed it with both hands. The influential Yakabu headed forward to Grazioli. It was almost inevitable what was to happen next, the conference top scorer kept his cool and calmly put the ball past the advancing Scott Howie, to put Barnet one up. This sent the 200 plus away following into raptures and the large home crowd stunned into silence.

Following the goal the bees knew Shrewsbury would throw everything at them, but the rock solid defence, led by Chris Plummer, was excellent. Shrewsbury’s frustration was growing; Rodgers in particular was getting very worked up, making him very unpopular with the travelling supporters. Then, the bees got a break and Ben Strevens, from all of 25 yards, forced a very good stop from Howie, with just under 15 minutes to go.

Despite Shrewsbury trying everything, including ‘keeper Howie coming up for a corner, they just couldn’t score. Rodgers frustration continued to grow and led to some ugly scenes on the touchline. Barnet manager Martin Allen went to retrieve the ball from the edge of the pitch when an angry Rodgers nudged him out of the way at such a force, ‘Mad Dog’ fell over the advertising boards. Luckily for the shrews attacker Allen didn’t react, in fact his anger was soon gone as the referee blew his whistle giving Barnet a very important and impressive victory.

Immediately Allen sent his troops over to the away fans, to thank them for there excellent support. This was a well earned victory and with news that Hereford and Chester drew, the result was even better. The happiness on the players faces showed just how much this meant to them. These players are playing for the shirt, not just their wages, their faces were like mirror images of the ecstatic Barnet fans. All in all a fabulous end to a wonderful month, four wins and a draw, Martin Allen has to be a contender for manager of the month.

Barnet: Forde, Rooney (Hendon), Plummer, Maddix, Yakabu, Williams (King), Lopez, Gamble, Strevens, Beadle, Grazioli

Unused subs: Millard, Taggart, Sylla

Bees goal: Grazioli

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Ismail Yakabu

Att: 4063

Aldershot are one of the only teams Barnet have never failed to beat. In three previous meetings, in the early 90’s the bees beat the shots three times in one season. Twice in the league, and once, in the then Autoglass Trophy (now the LDV vans). However minus the trophy victory the six points from the league were eventually deducted. This was due to Aldershot being thrown out of the league. However, the club has fought its way back and they arrived at Underhill, one place above Barnet and confident of a win.

Luckily for the home supporters Barnet were fired up too, and the way they started the game thoroughly underlined this point.

The bees went at Aldershot straight away, quickly unsettling the Hampshire side’s defence. In fact the first attack on goal brought gave Barnet a lead. Grazioli’s persistence led to shots ‘keeper Nikki Bull making a good block, but then the ball fell to Strevens on the edge of the box. Despite defenders on the line and Bull recovering, ‘Strevs’ kept his cool and beautifully curled the ball into the net, for his first goal since Telford on the opening day. Inside the first five minutes Barnet were one up and the majority of the impressive crowd went mad!

Barnet continued to pressure the visitors throughout the first half and could well have been more than 1-0 up. However, Aldershot had a chance to grab a late first half equaliser, were it not for a dreadful close range miss by Roscoe D’Sane.

Barnet started the second half just like the first. Lewis Hogg’s early effort forced a great one handed save from substitute ‘keeper Barnard. Aldershot’s first choice goalkeeper Nikki Bull had to go off at the break following a 50-50 with Giuliano Grazioli. The bees were taking Aldershot apart and Gamble’s early effort went unluckily wide. Still, Barnet wouldn’t give up and kept pressing for a second, and after a short while the second did come. Following a long ball by Maddix, Grazioli was put through. Despite the ball bouncing awkwardly, the Islington born attacker struck it sweetly into the bottom corner beating the helpless Richard Barnard. Shortly after, the influential Lewis Hogg was again unlucky not to make it three. After an excellent individual run, he fired narrowly over the bar with a powerful shot, just inside the penalty area.

The bees began to take their foot off the gas towards the end, and a clumsy tackle by Maddix gave the shots a chance from a free-kick. A well hit low shot beat the wall but not Forde, who got down well and held it superbly. However, Aldershot did pull a goal back late on, thanks to their top scorer Tim Sillis. A good cross from the left was met by the tall attackers head, beating David Forde.

Despite Sillis’ goal the bees held on and got what they thoroughly deserved, maximum points. Another superb bees performance takes Barnet above Aldershot to fourth in league, and only behind on third place Shrewsbury on goal difference, Barnet travel there on Saturday.

Another added bonus was the bumper crowd. In the week Martin Allen had said how much he would like to see a 2,000 plus crowd, and that’s what he got. A fantastic 2208 packed into Underhill, the first 2,000 or higher crowd (in a competitive fixture) since Stevenage on Boxing Day 2001. This shows the optimism and belief that Barnet can make it back into the football league, and if they play like they did today for the rest of the season, they’ll be in the running.

Barnet: Forde, Rooney, Maddix, Plummer, Yakabu, Hogg, Gamble, Williams, Strevens, Beadle (Taggart), Grazioli

Unused subs: Naisbitt, Bai Mass, Sylla, Lopez

Bees Goals: Strevens, Grazioli

Iain Dalziels Man of the Match: Lewis Hogg

Att: 2208

Despite injury concerns last week’s hat-trick hero Grazioli was in the stating line-up. The bees fans were in confident mood and this was enhanced by some early pressure. Ben Strevens and Giuliano Grazioli were already causing last years Unibond champions problems. Both were making some clever runs in and around the box and the midfield, especially Joe Gamble, were containing Stanley well.

However, shots were few and far between. Barnet were having the majority of the chances but they were half chances and not particularly good attempts. Despite the intense pressure Accrington got a break where it was three against two luckily a slight error and good defending kept the scores level, at the break.

The second half was very much like the first, Barnet the better side but they couldn’t find the breakthrough.

There were a few good chances, but Barnet didn’t make the most of them. Ismail Yakabu’s header went closest for the bees, just over the bar, Accrington’s best chance was a one on one, arguably the games best chance, but completely wasted it, firing well wide of the post.

It wasn’t the best game of football you’ll ever see, but you couldn’t argue that the players put in 100%. Unlike games similar games, last season, where the side would give up and go onto lose. However, this Barnet side plugged away until the end. Though they failed to score this is another encouraging display. As Martin Allen said “I see this as a point gained, not two points lost.” The optimism is still high and next is the big one, Stevenage away.

Barnet: Naisbitt, King, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix, Hogg (Lopez), Yakabu (Taggart), Gamble, Williams, Strevens, Grazioli

Unused subs: Millard, Sylla, Rooney

Iain Dalziel’s Man of the Match: Chris Plummer

Att: 1621

The game started fairly equally, both sides looking dangerous, but neither creating a clear cut chance. Barnet’s brightest player in the early stages was ex-Farnborough player Tony Taggart. ‘Taggsy’ was causing all sorts of problems down the left hand side, and this seemed to spur on the rest of the team. Hendon also started to get forward down the right, combing well with the two Marks, Rooney and Williams. The bees pressure was increasing, corner after corner was being won but they just couldn’t beat Pennock in the ‘boro goal.

However, Barnet finally made their breakthrough on forty minutes, when Giuliano Grazioli headed in his first league goal for Barnet. The goal came after Strevens was put through but had his shot well saved. Unfortunately for Farnborough the ball deflected off the ‘keeper’s leg up into the air, and landed on the head of Grazioli who headed into the empty net. The impressive bees following went completely mad as ‘Graz’ began celebrating.

However Barnet’s celebrations were to be short-lived. On the stroke of half time a blunder by bees ‘keeper Danny Naisbitt led to Farnborough grabbing an equaliser. Just when it looked like barnet were getting on top of the game they were pulled back to 1-1.

In the second half ‘boro barley had a look in. The bees were firmly in control but couldn’t make their chances count.

Joe Gamble was pulling all the strings in midfield and his low drive from twenty yards forced a good stop from Tony Pennock. However, the best chance of the half fell to Strevens, but his hesitance cost dearly and, under pressure, his feeble shot went wide. Surprisingly he had another chance to redeem himself yet passed it when a shot was the far better option.

The growing frustration in front of goal led to the introduction of Norman Sylla for his Barnet debut. The big striker looked dangerous but never had a chance to display his finishing. Despite the constant pressure, especially from the right where Rooney was sprinting constantly, back and forth between the defence and the attack. The bees just couldn’t score, and in the end had to settle for one point rather than three. Meaning they still haven’t beaten Farnborough home or away in three seasons in the conference.

A quick mention about the traveling support, if they travel in those sort of numbers and spirit to every away game the team will succeed. The way they got behind the team tonight was superb, and if the singing continues the goals will come.

Barnet: Naisbitt, Rooney, Hendon, Plummer, Maddix, Taggart, Williams (Sylla), Gamble, Lopez (Hogg), Strevens, Grazioli

Unused subs: Millard, Yakabu, Saunders

Bees goal: Grazioli

Iain Dalziel’s man of the match: Joe Gamble

Att: 1063

By Iain Dalziel

Barnet 0-0 Arsenal

On a blazing hot afternoon the bees began their home pre-season campaign against the mighty Arsenal.