Ulrich Landvreugd admitted the Bees were not at their best during the 1-0 win against Dartford but felt “overall the best team won”.

A goal from Jon Nurse was enough for Barnet to clinch the three points despite player/head coach Edgar Davids being sent off with nine minutes remaining.

The victory puts the Bees in sixth place in the Skrill Premier and Landvreugd was pleased Barnet came away from “a real battle” with three points.

The Barnet assistant coach explained: “Defensively we were good but attacking wise we could have done a little more, although we did have good opportunities.

“It was not the best performance but it was not the worst.

“We saw today that they came here for three points and that made it a real battle out there. It wasn’t easy to play but I think, overall, the best team won.”

He continued: “We always try to win with our style but today we played a little bit different, especially in the second half.

“They pressed higher and that meant we had to change a little bit. We played more in the second stage and even then it was hard for the midfield to win every ball.

“I think if we were a little bit more patient and secure we could have killed them. So there is still work to do.”

Nurse has had to work hard to break into the Barnet side. He has made five substitute appearances and his strike was his first league goal of the season.

“Jon Nurse has a lot of character and he was waiting for this moment,” Landvreugd said. “I am very glad he scored. He got a couple in the Herts Senior Cup and was eager to come in.

“He paid that off so I am very happy for him.”