We all know how the mighty can fall but on Saturday we saw how the minnows can do a great job of it also. The phoenix of the last few weeks that flew for Barnstoneworth Athletic went too close to the sun and, proving to have the wings of Icarus, plummeted to the earth again. Athletic went down 6-0 to East Orange United in the Over 35's B Division at Brabham Park.

It was a tired and directionless display which saw little good to come out. Some of their losing matches have left reason for hope but on Saturday they were clearly outplayed.

"We've been struggling to get a team on the field in recent weeks but there's no excuse for such a woeful performance" said manager Ewan Powell. "We just weren't in the contest and we have to have a long hard look at ourselves."

The first half saw Easts score four unanswered goals with little resistance from Barnies. With all hope lost at halftime it was thought a little pride could be salvaged in the second half. It looked as though it was possible as Easts were held scoreless for over half an hour in the second half but two late goals completed the rout.

It was hoped that the emergence of Powell from goals to general play late in the second half might spark the side. It appeared however that any cutting or incisive play had expired earlier in the week.

"We have only had two players play every game now and our roster of 22 players at he start of the year has been cut to about 9 who are available on a semi regular basis. It's a hard way to get a team going" said Powell.

It is with a sense of hope that spectators are able to watch the rise of Kyle Gardiner who has played better each week after returning only a few weeks ago from a broken arm. He is involving himself in the game well and adding to the general play of Barnies.

Many of the Barnies faithful around the world are looking for a return to the pride in the red and white and more spirited performances from the team. It is thought that management are hoping to sign Frank Haggarty who whilst turning 103 may still inject the spark required to turn the season around.