Michael Gash’s first half strike wasn’t enough to stop Accrington Stanley heading back to Lancashire with three points in the bag.

Accrington took the lead after 21 minutes when Sam Togwell poked Josh Windass’ cross past Max Crocombe for an own-goal.

The Bees levelled when the in-form Gash drilled home a Mauro Vilhete through ball on 34 minutes. 

Stanley’s winner came on the hour mark, after Sean McConville’s right wing shot cannoned in off the far post.

It was the visitors who had the opening chance of the match, when Crocombe tipped a Billy Kee strike over the bar after four minutes. 

Barnet’s first effort on goal came with a quarter of an hour on the clock – Luke Gambin’s long-range drive was comfortably saved by Jason Mooney in the Stanley goal. 

But it was Accrington who seized the advantage when Windass’ charging run and cross was deflected into the Bees’ goal by the unfortunate Togwell. 

Barnet were soon level – League Two Player of the Month Gash powering a low effort past Accrington’s keeper just after the half hour mark. 

A quiet second half sprung to life on 60 minutes, when McConville’s low drive put the visitors back in front. 

Andy Yiadom had a shot from the edge of box after 71 minutes, but his low strike was easily saved by Mooney.

Accrington could have doubled their lead with 15 minutes left to play, but Crocombe stuck out a leg to keep Piero Mingoia’s shot out.

On 77 minutes Aaron McLean’s direct free kick was struck narrowly over the bar from distance.

McLean attempted another long shot with four minutes left to play, but Mooney was equal to his speculative effort on goal.

Bira Dembele then headed a corner wide of the left post in added time.

The Bees pushed for an equaliser, but a dogged Accrington side were able to hold on for a valuable away win.

Barnet face York City at The Hive next Saturday.