Dean Brennan’s delight as Barnet break winless streak with Bristol Rovers rout

Barnet boss Dean Brennan was delighted with his side’s display as they ended a six-game winless run with a convincing 4-0 victory over Bristol Rovers at the Hive.

Adam Senior headed the Bees in front after 15 minutes before Nnamdi Ofoborh smashed in a superb second. Mark Shelton converted a late penalty before Callum Stead added a fourth.

Brennan said: “I’ve liked our performances in the six games as we played on the front foot, but what we managed to do, crucially, was get a second goal before half time. I thought we should have been four up.

“Our substitutes made a huge impact and having that strength in depth with key players back makes a big difference.

“Being two goals up is the most dangerous scoreline in football, so it was important we put the game to bed.

“We’ve worked a lot on our finishing. The harder you work, the luckier you get. Nik Tavares was amazing – he’s my Rolls-Royce at the back.”

Brennan also praised Britt Assombalonga’s influence, adding: “His quality and know-how made a huge difference. The bench we had today shows where the squad is at. Performance levels have been high and if we stick to those standards, we’ll win more than we lose.”

He added: “We changed system in the second half to stay on top and attack their backline. Mark Shelton missed his last penalty, but he had the courage to take it again and score. He’s been brilliant for us. Now we have to step up again and improve the goal difference.”

Bristol Rovers manager Darrell Clarke was furious with the performance of his side, who remain second-bottom in League Two.

“It was a diabolical performance – I have to apologise to our supporters who had to watch. It was absolutely shocking,” he said.

“I’ve got nothing positive to say. There are no men, no leaders in this group. It’s always been a big job for me, but it’s getting worse. I will keep fighting and don’t want to leave the club in this state – the fans know who I am. I am hurting and need to gather my thoughts.

“All the talks are cheap; it’s all about action. The last eight to nine weeks have been awful. We need to find leaders somewhere because it’s very painful right now. Most of the boys care for this club, but we’re giving players opportunities and they are not taking them. Some of the signings are not producing; I think the club is too big for them.

“I am no quitter. If I can, I will try to change things around in January in terms of what needs to be done, and the same next summer,” Clarke added.