BEACONSFIELD SYCOB manager Byron Walton admitted Maidenhead United will struggle to keep hold of on-loan striker Lee Barney if he continues to progress at his current rate.

The teenager scored both goals during The Rams Southern League victory over Bedfont Town at The Orchard on Saturday.

He also grabbed a consolation goal in the club's Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy defeat to Abingdon Town on Monday night, taking his tally to 14 for the season.

And Walton declared: "He is scoring a lot and is a natural goalscorer. If he keeps going the way he is he'll have a really good career in football as he's still only 19.

"I'd like to sign him permanently but Maidenhead see him as a big part of their future because he is a quality player.

"I think he can push on and play for Maidenhead's first team and if he keeps going the way he is they will struggle to keep hold of him." Saturday's 2-0 win lifted Beaconsfield up to fourth in the table having amassed a total of 21 points from their opening 10 games, three behind leaders Bedworth United and with a game in hand.

However the club's cup woes continued on Monday night with a 2-1 defeat to Abingdon United with Sam Packer and Adam Kingsbeer on target for The U's.

"It was a good performance on Saturday considering we were carrying an injury list," Walton continued.

"It was near enough all over by half-time and we were able to take Lee Barney and Adam Bernard off because they were still carrying knocks.

"On Monday night we played fringe players and reserves and they were lucky to win 2-1 really.

"But, it will probably work out to be a blessing in disguise as we can now concentrate on the league." Beaconsfield return to league action on Monday night with the visit of second-placed Biggleswade Town, (7:45pm kick-off) and host Fleet Town on Saturday (October 29, 3:00pm ko).

Walton added: "We've got a big game on Monday night where the winners can go top of the league.

"That is quite unusual because you normally don't get big games like that at this stage of the season."