Head coach Martin Allen insists what happened between Barnet and Bristol Rovers in the Conference will be irrelevant when the two meet on Saturday back in the Football League (kick-off 3pm).

The Bees make the trip to the Memorial Stadium looking to build on Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Northampton Town and pick up a second win in quick succession.

Rovers came up via the Conference Play-Off Final after missing out on the title on the final day, despite beating Alfreton Town 7-0 at a sold-out and expectant Memorial Stadium; Barnet’s 2-0 win against Gateshead enough to wrap up a record-breaking third Conference win.

But Allen is adamant last season will have no bearing on the outcome tomorrow when the Bees go west looking to improve on a poor record at the home of the Pirates.

He told the club website: “This game has nothing to do with what happened last season in the league.

“It hasn’t even been mentioned in our dressing room. What happened last year happened - the fact that we both got promoted is great.

“It’s a new day, it’s a new game and it’s a new competition.”

Rovers boss Darrell Clarke was also keen to play down the notion of a rivalry between the two sides, despite describing the Bees as “old foes” when speaking to the Bristol Post.

The former Salisbury City boss said: "I want to beat every team, that's how it is.

"Martin Allen is a good manager and has had some good promotion teams. I have respect for him and Barnet. But they are no different to any other side and I want to win, it's as simple as that."

Turning his attention to John Akinde, who scored both in the Bees’ win over the Cobblers on Tuesday evening, Clarke said: "The focus is on all the team and their strengths and weaknesses.

"Akinde scored a lot of goals last year and Aaron McLean has played at a high level. But, like I said, you need to focus on every aspect.

"Akinde is on form, but they also have other good players who can hurt you if you don't adjust to it."

Allen also praised his opposite number after 37-year-old Clarke achieved a rare feat by guiding the Gas back into the Football League at the first attempt.

He said: “Darrell Clarke has done an amazing job, there’s no doubt about it.

“For a club to get relegated and to bounce back at the first time of asking is remarkable.”

Barnet will be without striker Kevin Lisbie (hamstring) but should have an otherwise fully-fit squad to pick from.

New signing Aaron McLean could be handed his debut, most likely from the bench, whilst Luke Gambin is pushing for a start after his impressive cameo as a substitute against Northampton at The Hive.

You can find out more about Bristol Rovers by clicking here for a our opposition profile.