In this series, we look at the new teams entering League Two for the 2025-26 season, starting with last season’s National League champions, Barnet FC.
The Bees, led by the dynamic Dean Brennan, finally ended their long stay in non-league by storming to the title with an impressive 102 points — winning 31 games, drawing nine, and losing just six.
Back in the EFL for the first time since 2017-18, Barnet are aiming to make a statement and establish themselves as a stable and competitive force in League Two.
Here’s everything you need to know about Barnet ahead of the big kick-off on August 2.
A Brief History
Barnet FC were founded in 1888, originally as New Barnet FC before becoming Barnet in 1890. The club spent most of its early years in amateur leagues, enjoying success in the Athenian and Southern Leagues throughout the mid-20th Century.
The club’s first taste of Football League action came in 1991, under the charismatic Barry Fry. That team, spearheaded by goalscorer and club legend Gary Bull, was renowned for its attacking flair, and they quickly established themselves in the Fourth Division.
The Bees bounced between the Football League and non-league over the next three decades. After relegation in 2001, they returned in 2005 under Paul Fairclough. That spell in League Two included a memorable escape from relegation in 2012 when a last-day win over Burton Albion saved them — only for them to drop again the following season.
A second promotion in 2015 saw them spend three more seasons in League Two before dropping back down to the National League in 2018.
After several near-misses and a tough rebuild, 2024-25 saw the Bees finally return to the EFL in style - crowned National League champions with 102 points after a dominant campaign from start to finish.
Who’s the Boss?
Dean Brennan has overseen a remarkable transformation at Barnet since arriving in 2021. Initially appointed as Head of Football, he took over managerial duties later that year following Harry Kewell’s departure and was confirmed as permanent manager in February 2022. Since then, Brennan has guided the club from lower mid-table in the National League to champions — securing a return to the EFL for the first time in seven years.
Under his leadership, Barnet have developed a reputation for high-tempo, attack-minded football, with an emphasis on energy, quick transitions, and intelligent pressing. Brennan is known for instilling belief in his squad and has demonstrated an eye for developing players often overlooked by other clubs.
The 2025–26 season will be his first as a manager in the Football League, but his growing reputation and track record of progress suggest he could be one to watch closely in the coming years.
Key Players
Barnet’s return to the EFL has been driven by a balanced and energetic squad — and at the heart of their attacking threat is Callum Stead, who led the line with 18 goals last season. Quick, instinctive, and tireless off the ball, Stead played a crucial role in the Bees’ title-winning campaign and will be a key figure as they step up to League Two.
Supporting Stead is a strong attacking unit that includes Ryan Glover, Zak Brunt and Idris Kanu — all of whom bring creativity, pace, and versatility in the final third. Their ability to unlock defences was central to Barnet’s tally of 97 league goals last season.
In midfield, Anthony Hartigan was the ever-present heartbeat of the side. The former Mansfield man made 47 appearances in all competitions and captained the team to league glory, offering composure, passing range, and leadership from the centre of the park.
At the back, Myles Kenlock was a defensive mainstay. The experienced left-back, who made over 85 appearances for Ipswich Town during their rise through the Football League, brought consistency and maturity to Barnet’s back line, contributing both defensively and by supporting attacks down the flank.
The Stadium
Barnet play their home matches at The Hive Stadium, located in Canons Park, north-west London. Opened in 2013, the ground has a capacity of 6,500, featuring covered seating and a modern training complex adjacent to the stadium.
Though it lacks the traditional charm of their former home at Underhill, The Hive is a compact and well-maintained venue that can generate a strong atmosphere when full.
Crowds averaged just under 3,000 last season, but with League Two football returning and renewed local interest, attendance figures are expected to increase for 2025-26.
Looking ahead, Barnet have recently unveiled plans for a new stadium near the site of the old Underhill ground. The proposed development aims to provide a modern, purpose-built facility that reflects the club’s ambitions for long-term growth and sustainability.
Head-to-Head Record
Newport and Barnet have crossed paths regularly over the past two decades, with the most recent league clashes taking place during Barnet’s EFL stint between 2015 and 2018.
During this period, the two sides met six times in league competition. Barnet won four of those matches, while the remaining two ended in draws.
The last league meeting came in April 2018 at The Hive, with Barnet securing a 2-0 victory during their relegation season thanks to goals from Shaq Coulthirst and Ricardo Santos.
Last Time Out
The last time Newport County and Barnet FC met was during our memorable FA Cup run in the 2023-24 season, which culminated in an iconic Fourth Round clash against Manchester United.
The two sides faced each other in the Second Round of the competition. Newport hosted the initial tie and took the lead through Shane McLoughlin, appearing set to progress. However, Barnet struck late with an 89th-minute equaliser from Danny Collinge, forcing a replay at The Hive.
In the replay, County made no mistake, producing a commanding 4-1 victory. Goals from Lewis Payne, Omar Bogle, an own goal, and Seb Palmer-Houlden secured Newport’s place in the next round against Eastleigh.
Re-watch our last encounter with Barnet HERE.