Carlisle at the double to boost Barnes

BARNES boosted their survival chances with an impressive victory against Clifton – moving them one point behind London Wild Geese ahead of the final game of the season.

Home supporters could be forgiven for fearing the worst early on when flanker Max Woodward scored for Clifton after six minutes.

But when winger Fraser Carlisle scored Barnes’ first try mid-way through the first half, they grew in confidence – despite Samuel Harrison’s clever finish regaining the lead for Clifton.

Centre David Butler and hooker William Armitage crossed in quick succession before the break to give the home side the lead and loosehead prop Bradley Packham secured a bonus point early in the second half.

A 14-point advantage was well-deserved but you could still sense nerves among the hosts, until lock Peter Cazalet bundled over just after the hour mark.

Carlisle added his second minutes later as Clifton looked beaten, despite a penalty try reducing the deficit shortly after.

Robbie Martey finished it in style with a try in the 77th minute to ensure the home supporters left happy – and swinging the momentum back their way in the battle at the bottom.

Barnes travel to Bishop’s Stortford knowing they must better Wild Geese’s and Barnstaple’s result – while Worthing sit just two further points behind.