Barnet, fancied to make a bold challenge for a play-off slot in the coming campaign, face a tough early programme.

On Saturday, August 17, they kick-off away to Doncaster, who finished fourth last season pipping the Bees on goal difference after both totalled 67 points.

Three days, later, Yeovil, who ended third, come to Underhill. That is followed on Saturday, August 24, with another home match, against Chester. After starting the year one-from-bottom, with 23 points from 25 games, Chester improved considerably, taking 31 points from 17 matches to finish a respectable 14th.

On Bank Holiday Monday, August 26, the Bees are away to newly-promoted Burton Albion, and Halifax, relegated from the Third Division, are at Underhill on Saturday, August 31.

June 20, 2002 11:00