Martin Allen says he 'loved' the way Barnet supporters backed John Akinde before the striker’s hat-trick in the 5-0 win over Altrincham on Saturday.

The Bees forward has been an ever-present in the league this term and despite hitting three goals prior to Saturday’s demolition job on Altrincham, the big forward has not always scored the goals his all-round play has warranted. 

Akinde scored a first-half treble after Luisma Villa had opened the scoring with a 20-yard effort. In the second half, substitute Sam Hoskins capped his debut after signing on loan from Yeovil Town by scoring with his first touch.

Speaking afterwards, Allen praised the Bees’ supporters: “When you are a centre-forward and working your nuts off to lead the team and not getting the goals – that can be a little bit of a weight on your mind.

“I loved the way that the supporters got behind him. That was good for him and it was lovely to hear the ground rocking on both sides. I was very proud – on and off the field – of everybody.”

Allen then heaped praise on Akinde: “John Akinde has been unplayable at times. He has led the team from the front. He is totally committed and fantastic in training. It has been great working with him.

“He’s a top player and he deserved those goals. He took his penalties really well and when he plays well he is unplayable. That will do him the power of good to get that hat-trick.”

The Bees head coach shuffled his pack for Alty’s visit; moving Elliot Johnson into midfield in place of Sam Togwell, whilst Sam Muggleton made his first start of his second spell with the club.

Allen explained: “We work on the training ground and practice so that everybody gets to play everywhere.

“Elliott played in central midfield last week at Telford and did very well; Curtis told me that he has played as a centre-back before; Mugs played at left-back against Stevenage when we beat them in pre-season here; Nurse was superb for us once again.

“They are all versatile and adaptable. Most importantly they are all hungry and willing to play anywhere for the team.”

He continued: “I suppose after losing in the week people would say that I was a bit mad to make all of those changes but I see how hard they work and I see how good they are in training and as a manager I have got to have faith in them.

“We are a good group with a lot of games in a short space of time, and we practice and train on the training pitch for days like today.”