A tense National League encounter at The Laithwaite Community Stadium saw league leaders Barnet secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a spirited Woking side, further cementing their position at the top of the table. Rhys Browne’s first-half strike proved the difference between the two sides in a match characterised by tactical nuances and intermittent attacking forays.
The early stages were a cagey affair, with both teams feeling each other out. Woking, desperate to distance themselves from the relegation zone, initially pressed high, aiming to disrupt Barnet’s typically fluid passing game. However, the Bees weathered the early pressure and gradually began to impose their midfield dominance.
The decisive moment arrived in the 27th minute. A well-constructed move down the right flank culminated in Danny Collinge delivering a precise cross into the penalty area. Browne met the delivery with a deft touch, guiding the ball past the Woking goalkeeper to give Barnet the lead. The goal galvanised the visitors, who continued to probe for a second, winning a succession of corners and keeping the Woking defence under pressure. Woking’s frustration was perhaps epitomised by Dale Gorman’s booking for a foul in the 20th minute. Barnet’s Anthony Hartigan and Callum Stead also received yellow cards before half-time.
In the second half, Woking sought to change the dynamic of the match with a triple substitution just past the hour mark. Dennon Lewis, Adam Chicksen, and Dale Gorman were replaced by Junior Morias, Jacob Jones, and Lewis Walker respectively. The changes briefly invigorated Woking and resulted in a period of pressure, but the Barnet defence remained resolute.
Barnet, keen to protect their slender lead and their goalscorer, also made a series of substitutions. Browne, having secured the crucial goal, was replaced by Joe Grimwood. Billy Clifford made way for Jordan Cropper, Stead was replaced by Zak Brunt, and in added time, Lee Ndlovu was substituted for Dominic Telford. These changes effectively disrupted Woking’s attempts to build momentum, allowing Barnet to control the closing stages and see out the victory. A late yellow card for Barnet’s Owen Evans in the 91st minute had no bearing on the final result.
The win extends Barnet’s impressive unbeaten run and maintains their comfortable advantage at the summit of the National League. For Woking, the defeat leaves them precariously positioned near the relegation zone. Barnet remain top of the league, whilst Woking sit 18th.