A first-half goal from on-loan striker Sam Hoskins has earned Conference Premier leaders Barnet a 1-0 victory against Eastleigh at The Hive Stadium.

Hoskins almost gave Barnet the perfect start but, after his half-volley had struck the post, the Bees found themselves evenly matched against the visitors, who have slipped down the standings in recent weeks.

Michael Green and Jamie Collins had opportunities to put Eastleigh in front, but after those openings had been squandered, Barnet took advantage by taking the lead on 37 minutes through Hoskins, whose deflected effort from 20 yards found the back of the net.

In the opening moments of the second half, Andy Yiadom drove narrowly wide after being set up by John Akinde, and his side nearly paid for his miss when Eastleigh's Collins wasted a headed chance from close range.

Chances were few and far between, but while the score remained at 1-0, Eastleigh remained competitive. However, they almost found themselves further behind with 17 minutes remaining when Alfie Pavey fed Lee Cook, but the midfielder couldn't add his eighth goal of the season.

Adam Mekki and Akinde both struck the woodwork in the closing stages as Barnet pressed for a second, but one was enough to see them extend their lead at the top of the table to five points.