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

Barnet FC taking AFC Fylde in the National League — The Bees taking on AFC Fylde in the National League last season (Credit – Nick Sandamas)

While there was disappointment off the pitch for the Bees with the news that their application for a new ground next to the club’s old spiritual Underhill home was turned down by Barnet Council, on the pitch it’s been business as usual for last season’s record breakers as they prepare for the EFL after seven years away.

The first game back is against Fleetwood on Saturday (2nd August) and manager Dean Brennan has been busy strengthening his squad, signing no less than ten players at time of writing.

Scott High, Ryan Galvin, Adam Senior, Emanuel Osadebe, Romany Crichlow, Oli Hawkins, wing back Kane Smith and Dennis Adeniran have joined, while goalkeeper Owen Evans is back following a successful loan spell in the second half of the season.

Also joining the ranks is 21-year-old striker Joe Hugill on a season-long loan from Manchester United U21s.

Brennan’s squad has been further boosted by agreeing new deals with Danny Collinge, Nik Taveres and Idris Kanu, however Ben Coker and Jordan Cropper were amongst some to be released.

Pre-season started well with victory over Sheffield in two behind closed doors friendlies.

This was followed by a 3-0 win over Hitchin with a double from Rhys Browne and a goal from new signing Senior.

There then followed a 2-2 draw away to Dean Brennan’s old club Hemel Hempstead, with Anthony Hartigan and Browne on the scoresheet.

Next came a Crystal Palace Xl who left The Hive with a 3-1 win followed by two games behind closed doors which ended in a draw against Dorking Wanderers and defeat at Stevenage.

Up next was Leyton Orient and, after the rain initially caused the game to be called off, the weather improved sufficiently that a behind closed doors game was then played which ended in a Bees win

The Bees first match back as an EFL was tonight’s Carabao Cup game against Newport County, which ended in the narrowest of defeats in a penalty shoot out following a 2-2 draw.

Following that defeat, the Black & Amber will hope for home comforts as they begin their league campaign against Fleetwood.

The other games in August see a home game against last season’s play-off semi finalists Walsall with trips to Bromley, promotion favourites Swindon, Cheltenham & the visit of Colchester to The Hive at the end the month.

It’s been a long wait to get back but, like all Bees supporters, we’re looking forward to pitting our wits against the very best in League Two and seeing what impact they will make.

Come on you Bees!

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