SLAVI Spasov's strike proved the difference as Oxford United edged past Barnet in the FA Youth Cup.

The striker scored the only goal of the tie at Court Place Farm to book a third round trip to Burnley.

United had the chances to win the game far more comfortably, but Spasov missed the best opening early in the second half when he had a penalty saved.

They were almost punished deep into stoppage-time, but Okem Chime hit the crossbar from close range.

The home side were out of the blocks quickly, with Ryan Crooks hitting the post from Kyran Lofthouse’s cross inside the first minute.

The lively Crooks had a shot tipped over, before Barnet had a spell which saw U’s goalkeeper Max Evans tip Martyn Box’s free-kick round the post.

But United made the breakthrough in the 29th minute. A quick throw from Freddie Niblett put Lofthouse in down the right and from his cross Spasov’s shot crept in at the far post.

A sloppy spell late in the half allowed Barnet back into the game, but they could not cash in before half-time.

The interval did United good and they started the second half strongly.

Owen James shot over after running all the way from his own box, before the home side were awarded a penalty in the 49th minute.

Spasov, who was brought down, stepped up, but saw his spot kick saved by Aymen Azaze.

It kept the tie in the balance and despite United, who had Viktor Milton stretchered off, creating several good chances, Barnet hung on.

It almost paid off in the sixth minute of stoppage-time, when a corner fell to Chime, but from close range he rattled the woodwork.

But United came on to secure a trip to Turf Moor in the third round.

Oxford Utd: Evans, Niblett, Milton (Sampford 73), Jones, Lofthouse, McCreadie, Crooks (Lopes 60), Chambers-Parillon, Elechi, James, Spasov (Edwards 90).

Unused subs: Ferguson, Goodhram.

Barnet: Azaze, Pascal (Douglas 88), Box (Francis 75), Titchmarsh, Pauw, Tompkins, Taylor, Hercules, Chime, Adeniran (Murphy 88), Connell.

Unused subs: Edwards, Omore.

Attendance: 266.

  • Elsewhere, United midfielder Aaron Heap came on for the final eight minutes in Northern Ireland's 0-0 draw with Poland in Euro U19 qualifying.