GOALS from Shaquile Coulthirst and Ricardo Santos earned Barnet three points against Newport County AFC at The Hive, here's what we learned...

1. Motivation is key at this stage of the season

It’s not always the case, as County proved against Swindon Town last week, but at the business end of the season a team that desperately needs a win will usually beat a team with nothing to play for.

Barnet are battling to beat the drop and Martin Allen clearly had them well drilled and up for it, while Michael Flynn admitted his side lacked “fight” and they meekly surrendered to defeat.

2. Flynn’s Exiles set a new low

The manager insisted that this was the worst display since he took charge 13 months ago, worse than the 5-0 defeat at Mansfield Town, worse than Morecambe away this season and Plymouth Argyle away last season.

It continued the recent pattern of poor performances against struggling sides after impressive showings against teams at the top of the table and it’s a cycle that the Exiles need to break, preferably after Tuesday’s home clash with champions-elect Accrington Stanley.

3. Several of these players will be gone in the summer

Flynn again reiterated that certain players are playing for a new contract as the season winds down but nobody did their cause any good at The Hive.

In reality, the manager has probably made his mind up on most of his players and there will be a minor clear-out while negotiations are well under way with those he wants to keep.

4. Barnet can pull off a Great Escape of their own

Flynn and several members of his squad know exactly what it takes to beat the odds and secure survival when all seems lost and the Bees have given themselves a chance.

Allen has clearly instilled a real belief that was missing under Graham Westley (sound familiar?) and if they keep up their current form they may still be playing League Two football next season, especially as their final two games are against Morecambe and Chesterfield.

5. Stanley will be relishing their trip to Rodney Parade

At the other end of the table, Accrington require just one point to be crowned champions and they will be confident of getting at least that on Tuesday.

John Coleman’s men romped to a 4-0 win at third-placed Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday and it could be a miserable night for County unless they improve dramatically.