TOP BEES ARE NDLOV-ING IT

THE National League title wasn’t won or lost on Tuesday night and whether in two months’ time we look back as the pivotal evening in the race remains to be seen.

- Matt Badcock

But it did feel like a bit of a moment. A statement 3-1 win from Dean Brennan’s Barnet over York City to move them seven points clear of both the Minstermen and Forest Green who were held to a goalless draw by rock-bottom Ebbsfleet United.

Brennan’s Bees weren’t just very good, they were outstanding – even more so considering the obstacles they had to overcome.

Key defender Danny Collinge suspended, Mark Shelton broke down in the warm-up and, even more significantly, a goalkeeper in Toby Savin who had only just met his team-mates a couple of hours before kick-off after a frantic last-minute loan deal.

But, playing with a back four and a high-energy press, Brennan’s side suffocated York’s gameplan – forcing Adam Hinshelwood to bring on Josh Stones just 34 minutes in – and completely overwhelmed them from the first whistle. Quietening the near 1,200 York fans who had made the trip was even more of a bonus.

Ade Oluwo’s close-range finish had the Bees ahead at the break and the only small doubt was whether they’d regret letting some golden chances slip by.

Lee Ndlovu, brilliant up top, finished the outstanding Ryan Glover’s defence-splitter on 51 minutes and six minutes later Anthony Hartigan’s deep free-kick found its way in at the far post.

Brennan could count on big performances all over the park. Nik Tavares at the back was outstanding too.