YORK City hardman Kevin Hulme was expecting a tough game yesterday when the Bees from Barnet came to Bootham Crescent.

Instead the midfielder watched the game from the sidelines - after being crocked the day before by a real bee.

The fearless 32-year-old was stung on the hamstring during a training session at Wigginton road, and although not being too concerned at the time, the player later suffered an allergic reaction, forcing him to sit out the last-ditch 1-0 victory.

Hulme said: "I was at the training ground on Sunday and I felt something on my leg - a bee.

"It stung me but I didn't think anything of it until my leg swelled up.

"I reported it yesterday morning and was advised by the doctor and physio not to play, as it could have been dangerous if it got further into the circulation.

"It appears I've had an allergic reaction to the sting, but I've been given tablets and cream for it and I should be okay within two days."

City defender Barry Jones was in the wars and needed four stitches in a head wound suffered in a 77th minute clash of heads with the Bees striker Ken Charlery.

The 30-year-old was stretchered off the pitch, but he suffered no concussion and seemed fine after being stitched up in the dressing room.

Boss Terry Dolan quipped: "He's needed stitches, but it's not going to spoil his looks, so don't worry about that."

Jones' injury proved to be a blessing in disguise, as his replacement, Colin Alcide, was thrown on up front and duly grabbed the only goal of the game in stoppage time.

"We had to make an enforced change with Barry Jones going off, but it turned out to be a crucial change," Dolan added.