Match Report: Burton Albion 1–2 Barnet
(Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

The final day of the 2011/12 season and for the third consecutive campaign, Barnet’s fate was yet again, going down the wire. As the Bees travelled to Burton Albion, only two points separated them and Hereford (who were at home to Torquay) and really, anything less than three points would not be good enough. With McLeod on the bench (not fit enough to start the game), Scott McGleish partnered Ben May up front.

It was the home side that started the brighter and a mistake from Jack Saville in the heart of the Bees’ defence gifted an early opportunity to Calvin Zola. Dean Brill, at the second time of asking, saved his volley.

Any pre-match or early nerves from the visiting side were soon deterred with the opening goal coming after just six minutes. A free kick from 25 yards out, taken by Mark Byrne, got a wicked deflection in the Burton wall and wrong-footed Ross Atkins in the Brewers’ net.

Burton Albion 0–1 Barnet (Byrne ’6)

But instead of building on that lead, the visitors had a job of defending their one-goal advantage. Burton had a number of chances – first, Jack Dyer on the quarter of an hour mark, hit high over the bar; before Andy Corbett delivered a delightful cross and any touch from an Albion player would have resulted in a goal; however it deflected out of the area by a Barnet leg. Burton’s player of the season, Zola, then had a golden opportunity to level the scores – but for a great save from Brill between the Barnet sticks. An equaliser was coming, with the ball largely in the Barnet half and it came just before half an hour on the clock, through Jacques Maghoma.

Burton Albion 1–1 Barnet (Maghoma ’27)

As things stood, a point was not good enough – news from Edgar Street soon flooded around the ground, Hereford were winning 3–0. Just before half time, the turning point came… Corbett’s cross was missed by Clovis Kamdjo, who was back in the centre of defence, and Zola, the intended recipient of the cross, was bundled over tamely by Byrne; a penalty was awarded. After some arguing amongst the Albion players, Zola stepped up to take it – and skied it right over the bar!

1–1 at half time, and as things stood, Hereford and Barnet would swap places – a point not good enough.

For the second period, McLeod replaced McGleish up front and with 45 minutes to preserve their League status, the players looked a lot more determined, attacking from the off.

May had a shot early on, only managing the side netting, before Sam Deering really should have done better from six yards out – missing the follow-up, after another shot from May was cleared off the line. Barnet could have definitely felt aggrieved not to be awarded a penalty soon after – Deering the victim, shoulder barged to the floor by Nathan Stanton. “In desperation, they’d shout for anything” seemed a little harsh from the Brewers’ commentary team!

The pressure continued to pile on Burton’s defence and it paid off on the hour mark: a tricky run from Ricky Holmes allowed him into a crossing position, and when the ball was cleared to the edge of the penalty else, who else but ‘Captain Fantastic’ – Mark Hughes with what was a crucial winner, an excellent volley. A worthy winner if ever one was seen and cue jubilation from the away terrace. With half an hour to, the Bees were keeping their place in the Football League.

Burton Albion 1–2 Barnet (Hughes ’60)

Minutes later it emerged that Torquay had pulled two goals back at Edgar Street, although several cruel individuals started rumours of a 3–3 draw – and with that, the away end was rocking.

The game could have easily been put to bed, had McLeod remembered his shooting boots. But the last opportunity fell to home side – three consecutive corners late on, and the Barnet defence needed to remain resilient and fully concentrate on the task in hand. The first two corners were easily cleared by the defence, but the third required an absolute wonder safe from Brill, as he denied Patrick Ada – and Burton of an equalising goal.

And with that, the final whistle was blown and once again, the Bees had managed the ‘Great Escape’.

It was quite an afternoon with so many emotions felt in such a short space of time. The scenes at the end of the match were something else, with elation shared by players, staff and fans alike.

And so, our next League fixture, will be a Football League fixture!

Attendance: 3359 (away 992)

Match Report: Barnet 4–0 AFC Wimbledon (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

A bumper crowd (4,422) turned out at Underhill for its final game of the season and the home fans certainly went home the happier after smashing four goals past AFC Wimbledon – a first win in 17 games and only the second victory this calendar year!

For the hosts, Scott McGleish started up front with Izale McLeod, with Ben May dropping to the bench. There was also a re-shuffle to the back four, with Mark Byrne drafted in as right back, and Michael Hector partnering Mark Hughes in the centre of midfield. For the visitors, Terry Brown made five changes to the line-up and young goalkeeper Jack Turner made only his second start in the Football League.

The Bees started the brighter of the two, kicking up the slope and against the wind: McGleish with the opening chance, a tame header. Despite the torrential rain making conditions difficult, Barnet played it around well (something we’ve not witnessed much this season!) and Hector and Byrne, playing in unnatural positions, were highlights – Ricky Holmes was able to utilise a number of clever balls played to him on the wing, making several decent runs towards the penalty area. Needless to say, he was Man of the Match. The Dons’ keeper was certainly the busier keeper of the two, and was called into a save a handful of shots, mainly from distance.

The visitors’ first real attack came midway through the first half: a dangerous ball whipped into the box, but no-one there to make any real impact – the Bees’ defence, despite not having too much to do, generally looked assured.

And it was the home side that deservedly broke the deadlock: Ricky Holmes with a shot from 10 yards out.

Barnet 1–0 AFC Wimbledon (Holmes ’33)

The second half started much like the second, but with the Bees playing down slope, in the direction of the wind, that would always carry them on from where they left off. It was obvious that the goals hadn’t stopped at one, and so, they kept Turner busy in the Wimbledon goal. Jordan Mustoe with a lashing free kick, which was always going over, got a rapturous applause from the crowd; Michael Hector too, had a couple of shots from distance, causing a number of good saves. It was fair to say Turner kept the Dons in the game, and so the score remained tight at 1–0.

Just before the hour mark, Wimbledon looked the best they had all game and a couple of chances in quick succession: first Sam Hatton hitting over the bar, and then Byron Harrison with a header that never really tested Dean Brill in the Barnet goal, who didn’t have too much to do all game.

Terry Brown then proceeded to make a double substitution, one of which saw Jack Midson’s return to Underhill – and he got a decent reception, with a number of home fans applauding his entrance. He made very little impact on the game.

The final 10 minutes made excellent viewing for the home faithful, not so much to the Dons’ fans, a number of which left when the second goal went in: an assist from Holmes allowing Sam Deering to tap into the corner of the net.

Barnet 2–0 AFC Wimbledon (Deering ’81)

And the third came minutes later, again, Holmes – who had an absolute blinder down both flanks – the architect. An excellent run down the wing before cutting inside and delivering a beautiful cross for Ben May (who replaced McLeod) to tap in from range – a real poacher’s goal!

Barnet 3–0 AFC Wimbledon (May ’86)

With five minutes added on by the fourth official, the Bees continued to look rampant and weren’t going to stop at three – the fourth and final goal came midway through the time added on. Mark Byrne had a shot from distance, and despite Turner saving it, he could only manage to punch it skywards and captain, Mark Hughes, was on hand to tap it into the empty net.

Barnet 4–0 AFC Wimbledon (Hughes ’90+2)

The Bees thoroughly deserved the victory and safe in League Two, AFC Wimbledon never really got out of second gear and made it easy for the home side. It was probably one of the performances of the season; every player knew their job, did their job and there could be no complaints about the score line – more than four goals could have easily been scored.

Unfortunately the victory doesn’t confirm safety in the Football League and once again it will go down to the wire – Hereford beat Crawley away from home 3–0, and the final game of the season decides who will be joining Macclesfield Town in the Conference next campaign. Next weekend Hereford play Torquay at home, whilst the Bees go away to Burton Albion. With the gap still only two points, it could go either way…

Match Report: Barnet 2–2 Dagenham + Redbridge (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

It was 20^th v 24^th in League Two on Tuesday night, as Barnet played hosts to Dagenham + Redbridge in a relegation six-pointer. Although it ended up two goals apiece, it was by no means a thriller, with some desperate defending at times. Neither team really attempted to play the ball on the ground, particularly in its closing stages and it was mainly scrappy in midfield.

Dean Brill was recalled in the Barnet goal, with Liam O’Brien dropped to the bench, following some costly mistakes in the defeat to Morecambe last Saturday; Kamdjo was called into the centre of midfield, a move that saw Sam Deering on the bench.

As is the case recently, the home side started brightly: McLeod and May both should have taken their chances – the Daggers’ defence showing those low levels on confidence you’d expect from a team bottom of the league. And May could have so easily broken the deadlock had his header not been cleared off the line by Damien McCrory – the home fans behind the goal in the south end of the ground believed the ball had crossed the line.

It was the away fans to cheer next, again for a chance that so easily might have been: the opportunity falling to them in the opening 20 minutes, when Jon Nurse running in from the right wing took a shot. He, like the Daggers’ faithful, thought he hit the back of the net – only the side netting..!

But it was Dagenham who made the breakthrough: a sliced free kick allowed Medy Elito to show some skill by the corner flag, before delivering a tempting cross into the box and allowing Mickey Spillane to head home – a free header. From a Barnet point of view, Elito shouldn’t have been allowed to get the cross in, he was marked by two defenders.

Barnet 0–1 Dagenham + Redbridge (Spillane ’25)

The visitors were on top following their goal, hitting the woodwork twice in quick succession, but Barnet battled strongly in order to get that equalising goal. It finally came five minutes after going behind: McLeod timing his run to perfection and lobbing Chris Lewington in the visitors’ goal.

Barnet 1–1 Dagenham + Redbridge (McLeod ’30)

A draw at half time was a fair reflection, with both teams creating chances and scrapping for their lives. It was obvious at the beginning of the second half that both sides would try their hardest to regain the lead and get those all important three points – whether that be through a defensive mistake, or much-needed stroke of luck.

Despite playing up the slope in the second period, Barnet created opportunities – however, nothing to really test the Dagenham keeper. The game become a tough-fought battle in the middle of the park, Mark Hughes, a particular highlight for the home side, displaying a battling mentality, with a number of well-timed challenges.

With the game looking like it could still go either way, the away side regained the lead. Another cross into the box, and another header – this time Scott Doe with the killer blow.

Barnet 1–2 Dagenham + Redbridge (Doe ’72)

With 18 minutes remaining, and Daggers in the lead, as things stood both teams would be on equal points. 

But again the Bees showed that fighting spirit much needed when at the wrong end of the table, and came level after being behind for a second time in the game. Ben May with a shot from distance – Daggers complained it was a poor goal to concede with their keeper’s positioning at fault.

Barnet 2–2 Dagenham + Redbridge (May ’79)

At the end of the day, a draw was probably a fair result, with mistakes from both sides costing each other those three vital points.

It’s another six-pointer for the Bees as they head to the Moss Rose to play Macclesfield on Friday night.

Attendance: 1,725 (away: 351)

Starting line-ups:

Barnet – Brill; Hector, Downing, Dennehy, Mustoe; Byrne, Hughes, Kamdjo, Holmes; McLeod, May

Dagenham + Redbridge – Lewington; McCrory, Arber, Baudry, Spillane; Elito, Doe, Parker, Ogogo; Nurse, Akinde

Match Report: Barnet 0–2 Morecambe (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

Saturday 17^th March 2012

Underhill Stadium

Barnet started the game the brighter of the two, with Ben May (on loan from Stevenage) partnering Izale McLeod up front for the first time. For long periods of the first half, in fact, the home side dominated – Mark Byrne going closest in the opening 10 minutes, before another opportunity for the midfielder arrived, from a free-kick – but the away side also caused the Bees’ defence problems as they went forward.

McLeod then had a goal ruled out for offside, with just under half an hour on the clock, but Barry Roche was easily the busier of the two keepers. Before the end of the first 45 minutes, Barnet continued to press and rally forward at every opportunity, displaying one of the better performances of late – it was hard to see the gulf between the two sides, in terms of positions in the League. Byrne again should have done better with what could have been a great goal; on a different day, or with more confidence, he’d have hit the back of the net. Holmes and McLeod, too, had opportunities which should have seen them on the score sheet.

And, unfortunately, it was the visitors that were to go into the break ahead, when, with two minutes remaining, Kevin Ellison scored. A slip from Michael Hector allowed Stewart Drummond through on goal and although his shot was saved by Liam O’Brien, the ball was spilt straight into the path of Ellison, who converted a simple tap-in.

It was a real case of one shot, one goal, as the goal was completely against the run of play, but was merely a much-needed wake-up call for the Barnet defence to stop conceding such unnecessary goals. Despite conceding late on, it was a positive performance in the first half; the necessity to take chances was a real lesson. But when you’re at the wrong end of the table though, that bad luck seems to rear its ugly head!

Half Time: Barnet 0–1 Morecambe (Ellison ’43)

After such a valiant and pleasing performance in the first half, Barnet fans were right to feel disappointed and angered with what was an unacceptable second half display. Morecambe dropped the tempo, when necessary and saw the game out to their strengths, preserving their lead. Barnet looked lifeless and flat – with no real urgency or desire to take the game to the visitors. There was no ‘plan b’ or attempt to try and change the result, or predicament the Bees currently find themselves in.

In fact, it’s fair to say the Shrimps dominated the second half and it’s clear their second goal killed the game off – they simply didn’t allow the home side a foot-hole in the game.

There were a couple of chances for the Bees to equalise in the opening stages of the second half: Byrne and May squandering opportunities. An excellent goal from the visitors’ Jack Redshaw settled the score and the away side never looked as if they’d give up their two-goal advantage!

And Morecambe could have so easily been further ahead, the crossbar coming to the Bees’ rescue with only a few minutes remaining. Lewis Alassandra’s shot thundered against the woodwork, with Barnet’s defence hapless.

A real Jekyll and Hyde performance from the hosts in front of an infuriating home crowd. Following the second half display, though, Barnet can’t be disappointed to leave the game with nothing.

Full Time: Barnet 0–2 Morecambe (Ellison ’43, Redshaw ’63)

Attendance: 1,536

Starting line–ups:

Barnet – O’Brien; Hector, Downing, Dennehy, Mustoe; Byrne, Hughes, Deering, Holmes; McLeod, May

Morecambe – Roche; Parrish, McCready, Haining, Reid; Hunter, Drummond, McDonald, Ellison; Burrow, Redshaw

Match Report: Barnet 1–1 Rotherham United (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

After the shambles that was Tuesday night, it was important for the Bees to completely forget about that debacle, regroup and start again; they were playing hosts to Andy Scott and his decent Rotherham side. It was a year ago this very weekend both teams played out a bore draw, 0-0 at the Don Valley, and although it was a point a-piece again, this time round at Underhill, there was a certainly a lot more action – you could say it was a real game of two halves!

Barnet were forced into changes: Darren Dennehy’s red card against Bradford in the week and subsequent three match ban meant Clovis Kamdjo gave up his role in the centre of midfield to join the back four and fans’ favourite, Scott McGleish (on a one month’s loan from Bristol Rovers) started alongside Izale McLeod and Ricky Holmes – playing in a 4-4-3 formation.

It was a frantic opening five minutes with the home side straight out of the traps, and McLeod went close early on. But the opening goal came on seven minutes – Mark Byrne with a right-footed free kick which evaded everyone in the penalty area and nestled straight into the bottom corner.

Barnet 1–0 Rotherham (Byrne ’7)

It had been a while since the Bees had scored first and the early strike settled any nerves. It was obvious that confidence amongst the side was low following the last couple of defeats so the goal proved to be a bit of a boost.

However, the Millers responded well to going behind, and Liam O’Brien who retained his place in goal was called upon, keeping out a well-hit volley from Danny Harrison. It was a midfield battle with both teams trying to attack, and with both teams having chances it was obvious that the next goal would determine the way the game was going to go – one for the home side, and they’d manage to defend a two-goal cushion, but an equaliser for Rotherham, and who knows what’d happen – the game would really be in the balance!

And it was Barnet that could have so easily been two goals to the good approaching half time: Ricky Holmes with another excellent cross that somehow missed everyone, including the outstretched leg of man of the match, Sam Deering. Barnet went into the break feeling confident and looking good value for their lead.

Andy Scott made two substitutions at half time with Ben Pringle and Danny Schofield coming on and it was the former that ran the second half for the visitors.

Pringle got the equaliser for Rotherham within five minutes of his introduction, picking up a cross and driving the ball past O’Brien, with what was his first touch.

Barnet 1–1 Rotherham (Pringle ’50)

With Rotherham back in the game, they increased the pressure in an attempt to get the winner. Their chances were made easier with half an hour of play remaining when Barnet were a man-down (for the second time in two matches). Paul Downing, the offender – his first yellow for kicking the ball away, and given his marching orders for a foul on Paul Warne. The majority of home fans believed the decision to be unjust, but he’d made a bad challenge previously, and when you’re already on a yellow, you can’t just jump into rash challenges.

Even a man light, the Bees continued to battle and the performances of Deering and Holmes, given the situation, were a joy to behold; the latter was eventually substituted, much to the frustration of the home faithful. Playing in a 4-4-1 formation with McLeod the loan target, Barnet rallied, but there weren’t many chances of note for either side.

A draw was a fair result and whilst Barnet can be happier with their display this weekend, particularly with 10 men, Rotherham can possibly feel aggrieved for not making their man advantage count. Barnet play Gillingham at Priestfield next, on Tuesday.

 

Attendance: 1,765 (away: 284)

Starting line-ups:

Barnet – O’Brien; Kamdjo, Hector, Downing, Mustoe; Deering, Hughes, Byrne; McLeod, McGleish, Holmes

Rotherham – R.Taylor; Mullins, Raynes, Griffiths; Bradley, Cadogan, Harrison, J.Taylor, Wood; Revell, Harrad

Match Report: Barnet 0–4 Bradford City (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

Bradford went out resounding winners at Underhill last night, in what was being described as a “six-pointer”. Unfortunately for Barnet, more energy was displayed in the away team’s choice of kit as the Bantams looked pretty in pink.

The scoreline, which for those that didn’t know, read Barnet 0–4 Bradford gives a real honest reflection on the match. I heard people saying in the 15/20/30/40 years of watching Barnet, they’ve never seen a display like that. I’ve honestly run out of words to describe how pathetic, abject and frankly embarrassing the performance was. Instead, I’ll just sum-up the action.

Bradford came straight out of the traps and settled quickly into the game, testing Liam O’Brien (replacing Dean Brill) in the Barnet goal from the off. Desperate last-ditch tackles from centre back, Darren Dennehy, prevented City going ahead on two occasions in the opening 10 minutes. Unfortunately it wasn’t third time lucky as on 16 minutes he was sent off for fouling Craig Fagan. I couldn’t see an awful lot from where I was sat, but apparently he was the last man, and by the letter of the law, had to go. So the Bees were to play the final 75 minutes with 10 men and Fagan duly stepped up to take the spot kick.

Barnet 0–1 Bradford (Fagan, ’17)

Clovis Kamdjo, yet again got forward at every set-piece opportunity and a long throw from Mark Byrne, into the box, could have resulted in an equalising goal on another day. As it was, Clov’s header went wide. Instead, the Bantams went straight down the other end of the pitch and scored their second – an excellent cross from Kyel Reid for Jamie Atkinson to steer home, whilst the Bees’ defenders stood out of position and watched each other, rather than the flight of the ball or the opponent.

Barnet 0–2 Bradford (Atkinson, ’37)

I’m not sure what Sanchez said to the team at halftime, but whatever it was, it had no real impact. Bradford were easily in control for the whole of the second period: keeping possession, attacking at will and really making the extra man count.

Kyel Reid then netted his first, and Bradford’s third with a marvellous solo effort – picking the ball up on the wing before driving past two Barnet defenders and slotting it past O’Brien into the bottom corner. The keeper had no chance.

Barnet 0–3 Bradford (Reid, ’58)

With 15 minutes of time remaining, the home side finally had two attempts on target in quick succession – both were met with sarcastic applause and cheers from the crowd. The first by Izale McLeod was a lazy toe punt, hit with no real strength or effort, and the second by the usually quick and creative Sam Deering was a low attempt, again a tame shot, not even testing the Bradford keeper.

But the goals continued for the away side with only two minutes of the 90 left: a long ball from Rob Kozluk was met by Nahki Wells, who managed to stay on-side before rounding O’Brien and having the easiest of finishes into an empty net.

Barnet 0–4 Bradford (Wells, ’88)

The drama didn’t end there though, as before kick-off could commence, words were exchanged between McLeod and on-loan Reading defender, Michael Hector. With arms raised and team-mates trying to separate them, both received a yellow for their ‘handbags’. A bit of much needed entertainment for the Bees’ faithful, but added embarrassment, as if the performance hadn’t been enough. No real strategy, motivation or leadership.

Play-off hopefuls, Rotherham, come to Underhill on Saturday – can anyone else hardly wait..?

Attendance: 1,309

Starting line-ups:

Barnet – O’Brien; Hector, Downing, Dennehy, Saville; Deering, Hughes, Kamdjo, Byrne; Holmes, McLeod

Bradford – McLaughlin; Oliver, Kozluk, Seip, Davies; Flynn, Jones, Ravenhill, Reid; Smalley, Fagan

Match Report: Barnet 1–2 Shrewsbury Town (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

The 2012 unbeaten run came to an end last weekend as the Bees lost to the Shrews at Underhill, 2-1. It won’t be a game to be remembered though, with some awful playing conditions which didn’t help in any way.

The away side proved why they are hopefuls for promotion, sitting pretty in the play-offs, attacking from the off with shots raining in on Dean Brill’s goal; Jon Taylor and James Collins going closest. It took a while for the Bees to get into the game, with Shrewsbury’s dominance, controlling possession and looking a threat; with Izale McLeod in the side, attacking chances were likely to arrive. Jordan Obita, on-loan from Reading was a particular highlight: tricks and pace down the wing and a number of beautiful deliveries into the box, unfortunately to no avail.

And it was Shrewsbury that were to go ahead, before half time, after some continuous pressure. McAllister was the man fouled, and a free kick whipped in from the right hand side by Matt Richards evaded all Town’s players and off the head of Clovis Kamdjo for an own goal. Kamdjo could have so easily been the hero just minutes earlier, a free header from a corner – the closest the Bees had gone all half.

Whatever Sanchez said at half time obviously worked as with little over a minute of the second period on the clock, top scorer, Izale McLeod netted – an assist from Ricky Holmes after his attempted shot was blocked by the Shrews’ defender.

With that you’d think the home side would be in the ascendancy and continue to press, given such a quick equaliser. However it was Shrewsbury that largely controlled the second half. In stark contrast, the Bees barely turned up – whether that was because of the conditions is yet to be seen, although at half time there was a torrential downpour. Possibly the worst conditions I’ve ever seen at a football match, you had to feel particularly sorry for the handful of fans standing on the uncovered North Terrace behind the goal, many of which, didn’t have umbrellas!

The winner came on 75 minutes – James Collins with the Shrews’ second goal: a cross steered past Brill after some brilliant build-up play. With little time remaining on the clock, Salop continued to keep hold of the ball and although McLeod could have easily got his, and the Bees’ second goal of the game with an overhead kick, it lacked any real power and went wide. Shrewsbury were good money for the victory though, and tried to keep the ball as far away from their own half as much as they could.

A game of two halves I suppose you could say, but Barnet could have no real complaints about being the losing side.

 Attendance: 2,046 (away: 457)

Starting line-ups:

Barnet – Brill; Hajrovic, Dennehy, Downing, Saville; Deering, Hughes, Kamdjo, Obita; Holmes, McLeod

Shrewsbury Town – Neal; Grandison, Jacobson, Sharps, Regan; Wright, Taylor, McAllister, Richards; Collins, Gornell

Match Report: Barnet 2–0 Crewe Alexandra (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

Still unbeaten in 2012, with four wins on the bounce, victory against Crewe Alexandra last weekend was made all the more easier by the dismissal of two of the Alex’s players in the first half. Had it been 11 v 11 it could have been a very different game against a decent side pushing for the play-offs.

It was the visitors who started the better of the two, straight out of the traps, keeping possession well and creating a number of chances. Byron Moore came close to scoring in the opening 15 minutes, hitting a shot wide into the side netting – the away fans believed they were a goal to the good. More excellent play on the wing led to a second chance minutes later – Moore this time with the delivery, but Greg Pearson missed the target.

It’s fair to say the Railwaymen should have been winning, completely dominating the game in all areas. However, the Bees had a decent chance before the half hour – in form Ricky Holmes crossing in a dangerous ball, without any kind of end product. And it was the home side that were to take the lead on the half hour mark. Sam Deering with a volleyed through ball to Izale McLeod, who was brought down in the penalty box. A red card for Crewe’s David Artell, who could have little complaints, being the last man. McLeod duly stepped up and scored his sixteenth League goal of the season from the spot.

Crewe continued to try and play possession football, creating chances to get back into the game; their chances came to an end though, with a second dismissal just before half time. Adam Dugdale the offender, a rash challenge on Ricky Holmes. From where I was sat, a yellow would have sufficed, but after watching back on various replays, the challenge looks worse every time, and a red was probably justified – studs showing.

It’s fair to say the sendings off affected Alex, and the second half was all about the home side, trying to make the two man advantage count and increase the deficit. New loan signing Obita came on for the final 35 minutes and soon proved he could replace the provisionally-suspended, Mark Marshall – with tricks and pace in abundance. The second and final goal of the game was scored with just over 10 minutes to play: another delightful cross from Holmes, and a goal for Reading loanee Michael Hector, capping off an excellent performance. He had been playing in an unfamiliar role as right back, but got forward at every opportunity.

Not the best of performances from the Bees, obviously helped by a number of refereeing decisions. On reflection the Alex can’t have too many complaints about the sendings off, and were, for proportions of the game, the better side.

Attendance: 2,263 (away: 336)

Starting line-ups:

Barnet: Brill; Hector, Dennehy, Downing, Saville; Deering, Hughes, Kamdjo, Byrne; Holmes, McLeod.

Crewe Alexandra: Phillips; Tootle, Davis, Artell, Dugdale; Westwood, Murphy, Lowry, Moore; Powell, Pearson

Match Report: Northampton Town 1– 2 Barnet (Barnet Fan’s Perspective)

It was three League wins in a row for the Bees, a feat not managed for 112 games, and unbeaten in 2012, after a 2–1 victory away at Sixfields. A massive game for both sides at the bottom of the table, in what was being described as a six-pointer – but a win that saw the Bees widen the gap between themselves and the other relegation candidates: eight points from the drop zone, and up to 18th in League Two.

The side was not too dissimilar to the one that won away at Accrington Stanley last weekend, with Mark Byrne replacing Mark Marshall in midfield; he played wide right, whilst Deering was on the left, and Ricky Holmes partnered McLeod upfront. For Town, a debut was made for Chris Weale, goalkeeper on loan from Leicester City.

Weale was brought into play straight away, saving McLeod’s first minute shot, after a route-one clearance from Brill set the top scorer up. It was Northampton who then had the better of the play, and went ahead on 10 minutes – an in-swinging corner from Cobblers’ midfielder, Harding, and a goal for Adebayo Akinfenwa.

There weren’t too many chances of note for either side, although Brill was called in to play just before the half hour mark – a fierce free-kick from Jacobs, and an excellent fingertip save from the Bees’ keeper, who definitely saw it late.

It was a different story in the second half, and being a goal down at the break spurred the away side on. Three minutes in, and Mark Byrne drew Barnet level – a certain contender for Goal of the Season! A 20-yard curler, on his left foot, straight in the top corner; a screamer the home side could have no complaints about.

They could, however, feel aggrieved not to have a penalty after Jacobs was adjudged to have been pushed in the area. There wasn’t really a lot in the challenge, but it was one of those decisions that could well have been given on a different day with a different official.

And it was the Bees who were to be in the ascendancy following that decision, finally going ahead on 69 minutes; Ricky Holmes grabbing the goal, with a through-ball assist from Deering. Another great goal, lashing the ball into the bottom corner – despite claims from the Cobblers that their player was fouled in the build-up. There looked to be little contact at the time, and after viewing again last night, still proves inconclusive.

Another three points, and fairly decent display defensively from the team; the Bees will play host to in-form Crewe Alexandra at Underhill next weekend.

Attendance: 4,561 (away: 485)

Starting line-ups:

Northampton Town: Weale; Crowe, Langmead, Tozer, Adams; Young, Johnson, Jacobs, Harding; Akinfenwa, Berahino.

Barnet: Brill; Hector, Dennehy, Downing, Saville; Deering, Hughes, Kamdjo, Byrne; Holmes, McLeod.

Match Report: Barnet 2–0 Bristol Rovers (Barnet fan’s perspective)

The New Year started well for the Bees with the opening game presenting three points and finally giving the fans something to be happy about. Needless to say, it was a fairly poor game against two evenly-matched, albeit, mediocre teams.

The Bees started the brighter of the two – the return of Man of the Match, Ricky Holmes, a definite highlight – his partnership with in-form, Izale McLeod always looked certain to reap rewards. On a different day, the home side could have been a number of goals up at halftime; however, McLeod had a tough time gaining and maintaining possession, as a result of a strong performance by the Pirates’ centre back, Cian Bolger. Rovers too, also had a fair few opportunities in the first period – Dean Brill pulling off a wonderful point blank save from Gary Sawyer. With And the Bees being unable to take advantage of playing down the slope, the score remained 0–0 after the opening forty-five.

After the break, Bristol Rovers brought on former Barnet striker, Scott McGleish – to a very good reception from the home crowd. He was, however, largely ineffective, playing as the lone striker; he squandered a chance, blazing a shot from 20 yards well over the bar, and out of the ground.

The deadlock was broken just after the hour mark, and it was the home side to take advantage of some poor defending by the Gas. McLeod, of course, netting his fifteenth League goal of the season. Pook’s long ball upfield was retrieved by a Barnet player, and after confusion between Bolger and Downes, the two players furthest back, Izale’s quick feet meant a simple lob over the Gas’ keeper. The Bees then looked resilient, whilst Rovers were depleted and it was only a matter of time before a second goal came. A short corner from Holmes, after much confusion in the penalty area, was drilled in by Clovis Kamdjo.

There was no way back here for the Pirates, with chants of “sacked in the morning” by the away fans, directed at manager, Paul Buckle, who has since, been relieved of his duties. Although the performance wasn’t great, and the team know they can do better, the Bees can be more than happy with the clean sheet!

Attendance: 2,507 (away: 431)

Starting line-ups:

Barnet: Brill; Senda, Hector, Downing, Saville; Marshall, Kamdjo, Hughes, Deering; Holmes, McLeod.

Bristol Rovers: Pook; Woodward, Bolger, Downes, Sawyer; Richards, Stanley, Dorman, Carayol; Harrold, Zebroski.

My Round and White debut

For those that are unfamiliar with it, It’s Round and It’s White is a football website, covering an entire spectrum of football leagues – from the Football League to Non-League in England, to Europe and as far as America and Australia. It relies on the input of the average football fan, regardless of writing and journalistic experience, meaning anyone can write about their club.

I had been following Round and White on Twitter for a while now, and often speak to its editorial team – which was the main reason behind finally writing for the site; as well as getting a chance to showcase my writing.

It isn’t only match reports that can be found on the site, although the majority of articles are views from people at League games over the course of the weekend. I wrote my first piece this week, following our 2–2 draw with Cheltenham Town on Friday night.

Match Report: Barnet 2–2 Cheltenham Town (Barnet fan’s perspective)

Another Friday and another game of football for Barnet, this time at home to promotion-hopefuls, Cheltenham. Although on this display, questions must be asked as to how they’ve managed their current run of form – on yesterday’s showing, they were distinctly average.

The Bees started the brighter of the two sides, attacking from the off. On a different day, or with a better level of finishing, two of three goals in the opening 15 wouldn’t have flattered the home side. Izale McLeod, now on 14 League goals for the season went closest, with a lob being cleared off the line by a Cheltenham defender. Two minutes later and Mark Byrne, with a volley from at least 20 yards out (which went wide, to the right of the net) could have wrapped up the points in a rampant, attacking opening period.

However, it was the Robins who went ahead, just after the half-hour mark, with what was their first shot of the game after what could only be described as ‘typical’ defending by Barnet. Whilst it has improved since the three loan signings have been brought in, the inability to clear the ball from corners remains our downfall and was exactly how the visitors got the opening goal – a header from Kaid Mohamed.

With half-time fast approaching, the Bees continued to press to get that equalising goal and managed to get it with five minutes of the half remaining through man of the moment McLeod. League Two’s top scorer tapped-in following a beautiful cross from the game’s Man of the Match, Sam Deering. It was the least we deserved, being completely on top of the game.

It then only took Cheltenham three minutes to retake the lead, with a most obscure decision. An apparent handball by one of our players – in fact, no-one but the ref saw it; the player in question escaped a booking (and a talking to!). Up stepped Darryl Duffy to slot away the spot kick for the visitors. The score at half time 1–2.

It took another penalty in the second forty five to earn the Bees a point. Only a yellow for Sido Jombati, the last man, who hacked down McLeod in the middle of the penalty area – with everyone asking “how wasn’t that a red?” Of course, Izale duly put it away.

Both teams could have won it in the final half-hour – Cheltenham’s Smikle went closest, lobbing Dean Brill in the Bees’ goal, but missing the target.

On reflection a point was a fair result in what was an entertaining encounter.

Attendance: 1,775 (away: 220)

Starting line-ups:

Barnet: Brill; Senda, Hector, Downing, Borrowdale; Marshall, Byrne, Hughes, Kamdjo, Deering; McLeod.

Cheltenham Town: Brown; Elliot, Bennett, Garbutt, Jombati; Pack, Low, Summerfield; Duffy, Spencer, Mohamed.

I thoroughly encourage anyone interested in writing to get involved with the site, regardless of the team they support or league they follow; the team are always after contributions.

Round and White can be found on Twitter @RoundAndWhite and the website is http://itsroundanditswhite.co.uk/