Barnes nets the winner as Rovers reach play-offs

Veteran striker Paul Barnes 17th minute goal was enough to secure Barton Rovers a Southern League Division One Central play- off spot for the first time in their history at the weekend.

The visitors knew victory was all that was needed to finish in the top five and started well, with Rhys Hoenes testing home keeper Dan Green.

Barton then had the all-important goal through soon afterwards as Connor Vincent’s powerful shot was saved and Barnes followed up to tap home.

Rovers kept up the pressure, Ben Sawyer’s fine strike tipped wide by Green, who then made a good stop from a well-worked corner.

After the break, Barton continue in the same vein, as they forced the issue for large parts, but couldn’t beat a dogged Aylesbury defence.

Keeper Kyle Forster was called upon to make one good save, but other than that, had little to do.

Rovers thought they had victory sewn up with Tuki Tayali found the net, but his effort was disallowed for an apparent push.

The result saw Barton remain in fifth place and now travel to second-placed Royston for their play-off clash tomorrow evening.

Barton: Forster, Condon, Perry, Kilroy, Andrews (C), Reynolds, Hoenes (Peverall 76),Keating, Barnes (Tayali 60), Vincent, Sawyer (Young 84).

Subs not used: Powell, Gatti.