Mill Farm prepares to host a contest of contrasting fortunes as AFC Fylde welcome Barnet. Relegation already confirmed after a narrow 0-1 defeat to FC Halifax Town, the Coasters will be playing for pride alone. In stark opposition, Barnet arrive buoyant, having clinched automatic promotion and the league title following a recent victory over Aldershot.
AFC Fylde’s recent form makes grim reading. They are currently enduring a seven-game winless streak, though they did manage to breach the opposition’s defence in their last outing. Their league position reflects their struggles, languishing in 23rd place with 40 points, accumulated from 11 wins, 7 draws, and 27 losses in their 45 games. Their goal difference stands at a worrying -32, having scored 50 goals and conceded 82.
Barnet, conversely, are enjoying a stellar, title-winning run. They are undefeated in their last four matches and have found the net in an impressive 14 consecutive games. Their dominant season has seen them amass 99 points from 45 games, courtesy of 30 wins, 9 draws, and only 6 defeats. Their formidable goal difference of +56 underscores their attacking prowess, having scored 94 goals while conceding a mere 38.
Historically, encounters between these two sides have overwhelmingly favoured Barnet, who have won all three of their meetings in the last three seasons, scoring eight goals to AFC Fylde’s three. Earlier this season, Barnet triumphed 2-0 at home, with Nicke Kabamba and Callum Stead finding the net in the second half. Last season saw Barnet complete the double over Fylde, winning 2-1 at home (Callum Stead and Nicke Kabamba again on the scoresheet, with Danny Whitehead replying for Fylde) and 4-2 away (Gatlin O’Donkor, Harry Pritchard, Reece Hall-Johnson and Callum Stead for Barnet, Nick Haughton with both goals for Fylde).
For AFC Fylde, a victory here, while unable to alter their fate, could provide a much-needed morale boost and a glimmer of optimism for their future endeavours. A draw would do little to ease the sting of relegation, whilst a defeat would only deepen their despair. For Barnet, the pressure is off, but they will undoubtedly be keen to maintain their winning rhythm and conclude their title-winning season on a high. A win would further solidify their dominance, while even a draw or a loss would do little to dampen their celebratory mood.