Fylde, England – AFC Fylde faced a harsh defeat on the final day of the league as they lost 3-0 to the National League champions Barnet on Monday. The outcome at Mill Farm left Fylde fans with little to celebrate as their team struggled against the visiting Bees.
The match kicked off with Fylde’s Nick Haughton attempting to apply pressure early on, sending a clever cross from a quickly taken free kick. However, Barnet’s Ryan Glover intercepted it, halting Fylde’s momentum before it could build.
Goalkeeper Ben Winterbottom had an immediate challenge from Barnet’s Rhys Browne, whose powerful strike from outside the box forced Winterbottom into action with a crucial save. Yet, it wasn’t long before Barnet took the lead, scoring from a corner. Ade Oluwo’s clever near-post header caught Winterbottom off-guard, putting Barnet ahead.
Just before the halftime whistle, Fylde’s hopes were dealt a further blow when Barnet was awarded a penalty. Mark Shelton confidently converted the spot kick, doubling the visitors’ advantage and scoring just as the first half concluded.
As the second half began, Fylde sought to change their fortune. Haughton attempted a long-range shot, but it was saved easily by Barnet goalkeeper Gio Bellagambi. Despite their efforts, Barnet soon found a third goal to further seal their victory.
Lee Ndlovu capitalized on a mistake from Fylde’s Dan Sassi, who misplaced the ball in defense. Ndlovu rounded Winterbottom and rolled the ball into an unguarded net, leaving Fylde trailing by three goals.
In a final effort to secure at least a consolation goal, Will Hugill came close with a shot from the edge of the area, yet his attempt was unable to break through Barnet’s resilient defense. The match ended with Fylde defeated, marking a disappointing conclusion for manager Longwell’s side.
AFC Fylde’s lineup included Winterbottom, Stokes (Long), Davis (C), Sassi (Hosannah), Bardell, Riley (Ustabasi), Hugill, Evans (Massey), McFayden, Haughton, and Jolley (Ormerod), with Clark and Obi remaining unused substitutes.
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