The Hive will play host to the FA Cup first round clash between Barnet FC and Burton Albion, with the travelling side welcoming a break from less than adequate league form.
Barnet manager Peter Beadle has seen his side begin the season in relatively solid form, sitting mid-table in the Vanarama National League. The Barnet boss returns to the dug-out this weekend after 10 days isolation due to Coronavirus.
The Brewers have failed to register a win since October, and the pressure continues to mount on the inexperienced Jake Buxton, as his side sit second bottom of Sky Bet League One.
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Team news
Barnet FC:
According to boss Peter Beadle, the management team will have a full squad of players to choose from this weekend. Minus a few niggles, the squad are in full health heading into the clash - all this following a few players being away for a few weeks in isolation.
Burton Albion:
Burton Albion captain John Brayford returned to face Shrewsbury Town on Tuesday, and should be okay to face Barnet on Sunday, although the defender was excused from training to help with recovery from a few minor issues.
Both Michael Bostwick and Reece Hutchinson will not be on the bus this weekend. Bostwick is expected to return within the next fortnight, whilst Hutchinson, who hasn't featured all season due to an injury sustained in pre-season, played in a friendly recently and is nearing a return.
On-loan midfielder Jack Roles is away on international duty with Cyprus on Monday, and is not expected to be available for selection.
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Predicted lineups
Barnet FC: Azaze, Pascal, Connors, Preston, Dunne, McQueen, Petrasso, Richards, McBurnie, Fonguck, Faal.
Burton Albion: Garrett, Akins, Brayford, O'Toole, Wallace, Gilligan, Powell, Fox, Akins, Vassilev, Ennis.
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Ones to watch
Barnet's Wes Fonguck is expected to feature this Sunday. The tireless worker always has an eye for goal, and has tricks up his sleeve. A fan favourite for his dedication and attitude in every game.
On-loan Niall Ennis is known for his pace and directness. The Wolves youngster is deadly in-front of goal, and will cause the Barnet defence serious headaches if given the chance.
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How to watch
The fixture will be available on the BBC Digital Platform - including iPlayer, with kick-off at 12:45pm UK.
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Managers thoughts:
When speaking to the club's official website, Peter Beadle made it clear he is hoping to see his side build some solid momentum, with some inconsistent form hampering his side of late:
"There was lots of praise for the players who played at Leiston, with so many young players.
"The senior players have great appreciation for the younger players, going up there [Leiston], a long journey and in tough conditions as well.
"[Playing Burton] it is an exciting opportunity for us to pit ourselves against a League One club.
"It is not a free hit as such, but it is one where we can go there and play open and freely and try and express ourselves.”
Also speaking to the club's official website, Brewers boss Jake Buxton reiterated that Barnet will not be pushovers:
“For the players the FA Cup is massive and financially for the football club it’s very important. For the players who have played lower league football the First Round will always have that special spark.
“We aren’t underestimating Barnet. It will be a tough fixture for us, we know that, and we will prepare as well as possible and look for a performance.
“We have watched their previous fixtures. They are physical but they can also play. I have spoken to the players and told them they have to fight and be up for the battle and hopefully we will then get the ball down and play our football. But we have to start by matching the intensity and work rate of Barnet.
“Playing on a Sunday gives us a bit more breathing space. It has been relentless playing Saturday and Tuesday, and you do need a bit more time on the grass when things aren’t going for you. We are grateful for the rest and the extra time and we need to make that count on Sunday.
“There is no pressure on the underdog and that’s often when big performances come out of players. This is a break from the league for us and it’s important we go down to Barnet, put in a performance and win the game.”