The VBS Community Stadium witnessed a keenly contested National League match as Sutton United were defeated 1-3 by Barnet, in a game marked by pivotal moments and shifts in dominance. The result moves Barnet closer to automatic promotion, while Sutton United remain in mid-table.
Barnet took an early lead in the 7th minute when Mark Shelton scored, assisted by Callum Stead. Sutton United responded in the 33rd minute, with Siju Odelusi converting a penalty to equalise. The first half concluded with the score level at 1-1.
The second half began with significant drama. Tyler French of Sutton United was shown a red card in the 52nd minute for violent conduct, dramatically changing the course of the match. Just a minute later, Mark Shelton capitalised on the numerical advantage, scoring his second goal from the penalty spot.
Sutton United’s manager, Steve Morison, received a yellow card in the first half for dissent.
Barnet increased their advantage in the 81st minute through Adebola Oluwo, assisted by Ben Coker.
As the game progressed, several players were cautioned. Nikola Tavares and Mark Shelton of Barnet received yellow cards in the first half, while Danny Collinge, Adebola Oluwo, and Rhys Browne were booked in the second. Henry Sandat of Sutton United also received a late yellow card.
Sutton United made a series of substitutions in an attempt to alter the game’s trajectory. Ryan Jackson was replaced by Harry Ransom in the 55th minute, followed by Will Davies replacing Nana Boateng in the 68th minute, and Josh Coley replacing Kain Adom in the 76th minute. Ashley Nadesan was later replaced by Henry Sandat in the 85th minute. Barnet also made substitutions: Jermaine Francis replaced Lee Ndlovu in the 87th minute, Billy Clifford replaced Mark Shelton in added time, Jordan Cropper replaced Ben Coker, also in added time, and Dominic Telford replaced Rhys Browne even later in added time.
This victory strengthens Barnet’s position at the top of the table; they now have 96 points, one point away from securing automatic promotion, while Sutton United remain in 14th place with 56 points.