Quirky fixture scheduling means that the reverse of the Skrill Premier games played on 5th October take place during this week.
On that day, Welling United entertained Edgar Davids’ Barnet at Park View Road and now head to the Bees’ new stadium, the Hive in Edgware.
Both teams were in F.A. Cup action on Saturday. Welling claimed a thrilling 2-1 victory over Luton Town at Park View Road whilst Barnet’s hopes of a cup run came to an end with a defeat at Preston North End.
First half goals from Lee Clarke and Joe Healy put Welling in the driving seat against the Hatters, and although they pulled one back, the Wings’ defence with goalkeeper Lee Butcher, held firm. They now await a replay between Plymouth Argyle and Lincoln Town before they know who they will visit in the first week of December.
Now, they need to put their F.A. Cup exploits to the back of their minds and concentrate on winning the points that will cement their place in the top half of the Skrill Premier table.
There was plenty of drama in the first game between two the clubs. Andy Yiadom was dismissed in the 26th minute for a somewhat reckless tackle and Joe Healy floated a cross over the head of Graham Stack in the Barnet goal three minutes later.
Although one man short, it wasn’t all one way traffic and Barnet had their moments. They were rewarded when Welling conceded a soft penalty and Keanu Marsh-Brown converted.
Barnet’s goal-scorer was easily their stand out player but his dismissal on Saturday at Deepdale means he will not be available for the return game.
Welling supporters had the extra fillip of seeing Harry Beautyman back on the Park View Road pitch for the last few minutes in the cup tie with Luton. Jamie Day will be pleased to have a selection problem with who to leave out rather than trying to fill the bench and will be looking to utilise his full squad as games come thick and fast.