Hosts Duck Out In Six Pointer - Barton Rovers vs. Aylesbury United

Barton on the attack in front of the backdrop of the Bedfordshire scenery

For the first time in a little while, I was able to chose a game in the week and head out on Saturday without having to constantly to check Twitter to see what games have survived. My game of choice for this momentous occasion was the Southern League East Division clash between Barton Rovers and Aylesbury United. This game had great importance at the bottom of the table with both sides too close to the sole relegation spot although both sides were ten points clear of Arlesey in last place. Aylesbury are currently in exile, playing at Chesham United's Meadow ground which is a much visit for anyone who hasn't been. Barton won the reverse fixture back in August 3-2 and were hoping to complete the double.

Kick off at Sharpenhoe Road

With so much at stake, the game was fairly tense throughout. This is shown early on as Aylesbury create an opening for the man at the back post which goes begging as he loses his balance. They create another chance later on in the half but the shot is straight at the keeper. Barton's best chance of the opening period comes when the forward gets in on goal, eventually forcing the keeper into a good save. Aylesbury take the lead towards the end of the half with a header at the back post from a corner. Not too much happens in the second half. Aylesbury do hit the bar with a shot on the turn before they seal the points with a goal late on.

The Barton defenders await a first half ball in

To get to Barton, you first need to get a train to Luton from St Pancras with the quick trains from upstairs taking twenty five minutes or the slower ones from the lower levels taking about an hour. Once in Luton you need to walk through the shopping centre to stop G1 outside the Weatherspoons to catch the 81 bus which should take twenty minutes. Everything of interest in Barton is on Bedford Road including two pre game pubs. The better of the two in terms of ales is The Waggon and Horses which also had the sports channels. If you don't want to walk too far from the ground then The Royal Oak more than does the job. The clubhouse had a wide selection of beers and also had Sky Sports. I really liked Sharpenhoe Road, the pictures don't really do the backdrop justice. There is a seated stand on the clubhouse side and covered standing on the opposite side. Both ends are uncovered standing. The club also produces a physical programme.

Tree lined covered standing