Martin Allen claimed that he knew a week before the season started that Barnet would secure the Conference Premier title.

The Bees secured their place back in the Football League after beating Gateshead by two goals to nil, sparking wild scenes at The Hive.

Bristol Rovers had chased Barnet all the way, winning 7-0 against Alfreton, but now have to settle for a play-off spot.

Allen said: “I knew a week before the season started we were going to be champions. Nobody could stop us.

“We had too much power, pace; we had too much of everything. I knew we were going to get 90+ points. I was never concerned. I knew what we had was special.”

A 46-game season is never going to be plain sailing and Allen could have made changes in March but elected to not make changes.

He added: “The chairman Mr (Tony) Kleanthous offered money to get players in and I thought about it long and hard for a minute.

“I brought them all in and sat them down and said I have total belief in them. I believe I'd have lost the dressing room if I'd changed it and we've become champions.

“It makes today special for me as I could have binned them and moved others in.”

Allen paid tribute to his players for providing the fans a special day and one they would never forget.

He said: "I thought the players were outstanding. It was always going to be a difficult game. After last week at Kidderminster, we got out of jail and the players took full advantage.

"The keeper had one save to make. We kept a clean sheet and could have had a couple more goals. It's a great day for the club, the players and myself."