An 86th minute strike from supersub Daniel Stanton earned Wingate & Finchley a 1-1 draw against League 2 Barnet on Tuesday night.

The Team GB midfielder joined the pre-season friendly action with 20 minutes left and drilled a first-time effort from the edge of the box into the bottom corner, past Lee Harrison in the Bees goal.Summer signing Michael Sacks and Craig Ellis were also in action.

Wingate manager Michael Stone said: "Pre-season is all about building up physical fitness. We're in the process of building a new squad with seven summer signings playing so it was no surprise that our performance was a bit disjointed. But at this level it's all about getting experience against a good league club."

Stone was delighted with the displays of his Jewish players, in particular. "Michael Sacks has grown in confidence with every game and has shown he can hold his own at this level. He's done very well and is always willing to learn and take information on board.

"Craig Ellis is proven at this level and is doing extremely well. He's a tough boy who wins his tackles."
The manager reserved special praise for Stanton, who was playing JC MSFL football prior to the 2005 Maccabiah Games. "I'm delighted for Daniel. He's got his head down in training and worked hard. It was a terrific strike. The game was not about the result but it was nice to be rewarded for our efforts and avoid defeat."

Wingate's performance drew praise from Barnet boss Paul Fairclough, who is also manager of the England non-league team. Stone said: "Paul was very complimentary about our side."

Stone confirmed that utility player Danny Berg is looking for a new club in a bid to gain regular first team action. "Danny has been training with Cheshunt and is now with Potters Bar," said Stone. "He is looking for a permanent deal."

The blues start their Ryman League Division One North campaign on August 16.