Barnet sack manager Hendon

Barnet have terminated the contract of manager Ian Hendon with immediate effect.

The Bees suffered a fifth successive defeat as they crashed to a 1-0 loss at Accrington last night to ensure they are still not guaranteed to avoid relegation from Coca-Cola League Two.

Hendon's sacking is the first under chairman Tony Kleanthous in 16 years and Paul Fairclough, who was in charge prior to Hendon, will take over for the final two games against Grimsby and Rochdale.

Hendon captained the Barnet side that won promotion into the Football League in 1991 and was assistant to Fairclough before taking the reins in January 2009 following his predecessor's resignation.

He was then given a two-year deal last summer and the Bees made a promising start to the season as they topped the table in September, but a poor run of form has seen them plummet down the table and they need a point at Grimsby on Saturday to ensure it will be the Mariners who are relegated along with Darlington.

Peter Shreeves will leave his post as an advisor to Hendon when his short-term contract ends later this week.

Kleanthous told the club's official website, www.barnetfc.com: "I have supported Ian throughout and given him every chance. I take full responsibility for appointing him and also perhaps for not taking action sooner. I am still sure that given the chance he will make a very good manager.

"Barnet simply cannot afford relegation and, after considering several options we are turning to Paul Fairclough, who achieves good results for the England C side, has experience and knows this club and the players."