NEWPORT County AFC manager Warren Feeney says his team will be ready for a battle with Barnet this afternoon.

County have been criticised for their physical approach to games this season – something that Feeney feels is unfair But, with Barnet boasting 6ft 2ins striker John Akinde in their ranks, the Exiles boss knows his side need to be up for the fight against Martin Allen’s side.

Akinde has scored three goals already this season and hit three in three games against County last season.

“It’s going to be a tough game,” said Feeney, who wants his side to bounce back from Tuesday’s 4-1 defeat in the Checkatrade Trophy.

“I know what Martin and his teams are about. He’s got very good players, Akinde especially, but it’s a home game and we’ve got to pick up points at home.

“We were disappointed the other night but my sole focus is on the league and this will be a tough game but it’s one we’ll be confident going into.

“It’s going to be a hard game. They’re a strong team, they’ve got physically big boys but we’re at home and we’ve got to be confident.

“We get slated for being bully boys and being too physical but I think it’s important that you play to your strengths,” he added. “And Barnet will be the same as us.”

County have five points from five games in League Two so far and Feeney says he is happy with the progress his new-look side has made.

“We haven’t been playing bad and we’re a lot better than last season when we were playing catch-up,” he said.

“I don’t think we’ve been bad. Last season we were fighting in the first two months of the season being bottom of the league [under Terry Butcher].

“I think we’re in a very good position. We should have more points but we’re above the bottom two and we’re in that mix.

“I’ve been very pleased with the start and I’ve said it’s going to be a progression.

“I’m very pleased with the way it’s gone and I think I’ve got the squad to cope until January.”