A 4-2 home defeat at the hands of Bury leaves the Cobblers just two points ahead of the drop zone and a resurgent Barnet who continued their excellent form under Martin Allen with a home victory against Crewe.
Shaun Harrad's two goals were mere consolations after the Shakers had hit four past an increasingly shaky Northampton defence.
Gary Johnson remains without a win as manager of the Cobblers and the prospect of Blue Square Premier football next season is becoming increasingly likely.
Reaction to follow on Cobblers Mad.