Nnamdi Ofoborh is Barnet’s matchwinner in defeat of Chesterfield

Nnamdi Ofoborh’s second-half strike earned Barnet a hard-fought 1-0 win over Chesterfield to boost their Sky Bet League Two play-off hopes.

The Spireites almost took the lead inside two minutes after goalkeeper Cieran Slicker’s mistimed clearance gifted them a gilt-edged chance, but Liam Mandeville’s effort hit the side-netting.

The visitors went close again four minutes later when Mandeville’s free-kick found Lee Bonis, whose header drifted wide of the post.

Barnet’s best opportunity before the break fell to Danny Collinge, who connected superbly with a long throw only to see his half-volley crash against the woodwork. At the other end, Kabongo Tshimanga flashed inches wide after latching on to Slicker’s clearance.

Chesterfield threatened again early in the second half when Dilan Markanday’s left-footed effort from the right flew narrowly wide.

The breakthrough came just past the hour mark as neat movement inside the box picked out Ofoborh, who fired into the roof of the net.

Armando Dobra went close twice late on, denied by Slicker and then seeing a goalbound effort cleared off the line as Barnet held on for victory.