Colchester continued their good league form after a superb Sammie Szmodics’ strike gave them victory.
The match was settled in the 84th minute by a piece of magic by Szmodics from 25 yards.
A lively start saw Ryan Jackson testing Jamie Stephens in the home goal while at the other end, Sam Walker pushed away a Ryan Watson 25-yard free-kick.
Just before the half-hour mark, Colchester’s Ryan Inniss put in a great block to deflect Mauro Vilhete’s goalbound effort.
After half time, Barnet’s Simeon Akinola got himself into a good position inside the area but dragged his shot wide of the post.
Jack Taylor cleared off the line from Inniss’ header and just moments after coming on as a sub, Szmodics forced Stephens into a low save.
With the game heading towards a draw, Szmodics’ brilliant curling shot gave United all three points and keeps them well in the hunt for a play-off spot.
Colchester go into two consecutive home games now against struggling Morecombe, followed by fellow play-off contenders Lincoln.