Nick Sandamas on Barnet FC’s return to the Football League

Barnet FC take on Eastleigh in the National League — Title-chasing Barnet drew with Eastleigh at The Hive on Good Friday – (Credit – Nick Sandamas)

Barnet FC approached the end of April on the brink of securing the National League title and long-awaited promotion back to the EFL before finally securing the title with a 4-0 win over Aldershot yesterday.

As the Bees ended March with a 3-1 win over Gateshead, they held an eleven point lead over second-placed York City and it seemed only a matter of time before the National League title and promotion to the EFL were in sight.

However the next three games yielded only two points and, with York continuing to win, the gap between the two clubs was cut to four points (with three games left) as the sides entered their Easter Monday games.

Defeat at Braintree at the start of April, with ex-Bees legend John Akinde scoring a late penalty, was not only a blow but it also ended the leaders’ 25-match unbeaten run stretching back to October.

Then two successive home draws were further hiccups in the Bees’ quest to wrap up the title as quickly as possible.

First, local rivals Wealdstone cancelled out Ade Oluwo’s goal to equalise ten minutes from the end through Harrison Sonha.

Then, on Good Friday, Eastleigh also left The Hive with a point: Paul McCallum taking advantage of a mistake to open the scoring and, although Danny Collinge levelled before half time, the Bees were unable to find a winner.

Therefore on Easter Monday, all eyes were on Gander Green Lane and the LNER Stadium with York hosting play off contenders Oldham whilst the Bees travelled to face Sutton United.

The Bees got the early goal they craved against Sutton with Mark Shelton sweeping in the opener.

Nerves were jangling on 33 mins when the U’s levelled from a spot kick but second half goals from Shelton from the spot and Ade Oluwo late on secured the win and, with York only drawing, just one more point was required from the final two games to clinch top spot.

Follow yesterday’s win over Aldershot, the trip to AFC Fylde to wrap up the season will be a match of celebration for boss Dean Brennan and the team, with the chance to reach the 100-point barrier for the first time in club history.

Let’s get the party started!

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