David Stephens spoke of his delight following Saturday’s 1-2 win over York City but admitted it was more like a ‘war’ than a football match.

The Bees ended the game with just nine men as Bondz N’Gala and Jon Nurse both exited the field of play late on due to injury. 

Speaking post-match the defender revealed that despite a few knocks and bruises it was all worth it to secure a vital three points.  

“I think you could see that it was a real war on Saturday, Bondz came off with a big head injury and Jon was knocked out.

“The ball also hit me in the face but sometimes you have to win ugly and on Saturday we did exactly that.”

The Bees conceded early on, as they did against Burton Albion, and the 21-year-old admitted that they need to start from the whistle not from 1-0 down. 

“We need to look at the way we start games and work on it as a team because once we get into games we look comfortable and often controlled them. 

“We will be looking for a better start against Rochdale next weekend but we are delighted we secured the three points on Saturday.”

Stephens continued by hailing the character of the team whilst expressing his relief that Michael Rankine was awarded York City’s opener. 

“We played the ball around quite well and even though we did not play the way we wanted to in the second-half we dug in and showed great character.

“It (the opener) did come off me but I have looked on Sky Sports and they gave it to Michael Rankine so I am glad none of my friends saw that!”

Not long after the Bees levelled via Andy Yiadom but it was Jake Hyde who grabbed the decisive goal despite starting the game on the bench. 

“Jake was disappointed to start on the bench, especially after playing so well last week, but he gave the manager the reaction he was looking for.

“He showed great sharpness and it was a very composed finished.”

Chiro N’Toko made his debut on Saturday and Stephens was pleased with the new partnership as language barrier issues were quickly dispelled. 

“His native language is French but he speaks a little bit of English and I speak a little bit of French so it worked out alright.

“He will now be looking to continue his return to full fitness because he did struggle a little with cramp but I am sure it will not take him long.”

Next up for the Bees is an Underhill double header against Rochdale then Southend United and Stephens is targeting two wins out of two. 

“We have got two home games now so we will be looking to take advantage of that by securing maximum points.”