'This is a great chance for them' (From Times Series)

Mark Robson believes his young squad must take the chance they have been given at Barnet

9:30am Thursday 6th September 2012 in Sport By Adam Newson

Mark Robson believes his young players must take the opportunity they’ve been given at Barnet, otherwise they may find it “difficult” to make a living in the professional game.

They are strong words from the head coach who spoke after the Bees suffered their third defeat in four League Two matches – a lacklustre 2-0 loss at Rochdale on Saturday.

Barnet have only scored twice in the league this season and have conceded nine goals - It is easy to understand why the Bees sit bottom of the fledgling table. Robson has stated before, his young team are still gelling but he admits he wants his side to show more “desire and passion”.

He said: “One of the things I’ve said to the boys is that they have to show a little more steel and a little more belief.

“There are a lot of young lads who have been given an opportunity. If they don’t take it then it will be difficult for them in the professional game to make a living.

“This is a great chance for them and they have got to show that desire, passion and everything else that goes with being a footballer alongside being confident on the ball – it is a whole package.

“I will be expecting everyone at it against Gillingham on Saturday and the need to show nothing other than full commitment, passion and desire.”

The Bees lacked a threat in attack for the majority of the match against Dale and first half goals from Ashley Grimes and Dele Adebola settled the contest.

The physical presence of former Birmingham City striker Adedola was the Bees’ defence problems throughout.

Robson admitted he is looking to bring in a striker of the same fashion and indicated that the Bees had missed out on a transfer target.

He explained: “We tried to get one (a striker) in that sort of mould but that hasn’t happened. But we will keep trying and looking for the right one.”

Barnet were active on transfer deadline day and brought in defender David Stephens from Hibernian while Mauro Vilhete joined Boreham Wood on loan.

Robson was pleased to have completed the deal and believes that the 20-year-old will strengthen the Bees squad.

“He is a big unit. He is someone I think we need at the moment; he has a real presence and it competitive.

“We need a few of them at the moment. Against Rochdale Dele Adebola was a big, strong striker and we will face a few more of them throughout the season.

“So we want to try and strengthen the squad and I think he will certainly do that.”