Barnet might have been booted out of the FA Cup by Newport - but at least they took three points out of the Exiles this time.

Boss Martin Allen boasted Bees were a different animal compared to the side that exited the famous old trophy at the beginning of the month, and was all the more pleased to beat a Newport side in good nick.

John Akinde netted twice in the second half for a 2-0 win - the second a penalty a minute from the end to elevate his side to a safe-looking 17th.

“Newport County have been on a fantastic run of form, and are a very difficult to team to beat," Allen said. “After they beat us quite comfortably a few weeks ago there has been a significant improvement in our play.

At the double: John Akinde

“When we played Newport in the FA Cup it was such a disappointing day. We were poor left, right and centre; in possession and out of possession.

Allen also called on his youngsters to man the bench, but warned chairman Tony Kleanthous he might get a knock on his door in January.

Allen explained: "I thought that I’d bring in one of our young players who had done so well out on loan. Harry Taylor came in and did very well, so I was pleased with that.

“We haven’t got anyone else – the squad is now fully trimmed. With Michael Nelson out for a while, we might have to ask the Chairman if we can get a loan player in, early in January.

Ask: Tony Kleanthous

“It’s been refreshing – Charlie Kennedy has been with us, Mat Stevens was close to being in there.

“Justin Nwogu is right in amongst it as well now; he’s been training and playing well.

“Hakeem Odoffin is only 17, Sam Muggleton is only 19, so we’ve got a big group of young players who are integrating really well with the senior squad, and we are definitely seeing a difference.”

For the time being, Barnet have a daunting trip to in-form Cambridge tomorrow hoping Bees on the road get into fourth gear.

He said: "I don’t think we’ve played that well away from home to be honest, apart from in a couple of matches. We haven’t played with the confidence and self belief that I’d like.

“We’ve got to try and improve that now."

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