Blyth Spartans captain Graeme Armstrong believes that his side can cause an upset in the first round proper of the FA cup against his former club Gateshead at Croft Park on Saturday.
The two sides have had contrasting fortunes in their respective leagues this season with Spartans bottom of the pile in the Blue Square North and Gateshead flying high in 6th position in the Blue Square Premier.
Armstrong, however, remains confident that Blyth can stage an upset against the Heed.
“We know there seems like a big gap at the moment as we are struggling in our league and they are doing well in theirs but with the fans behind us and the players we have in the squad we are certainly capable of causing an upset.” said Armstrong.
He added: “You’ve got to be confident going into it because it’s a one off game and anything can happen.”
Spartans have progressed to this stage of the competition with wins over Bedlington Terriers, Whitby Town and then Droylsden – which was decided after a replay.
Armstrong and his teammates are now looking forward to their biggest test of this season’s FA cup campaign so far.
He said: “The draw was made and we still knew we had to win our replay against Droylsden so after getting through we’ve all been really looking forward to it.
“We’ve got players in the squad who have played in these types of games before but we’ve also got younger players who just need a bit of encouragement at times and maybe an individual talking to.”
Armstrong added: “There’s a lot of ability in this squad and we haven’t shown what we’re capable of so far this season so it is a perfect opportunity on Saturday to prove our quality.”
Speaking of Blyth’s route to the first round, Armstrong commented: “They haven’t been easy games.
“We had a local derby and then two tough away draws and we came through the last round in a replay.”
Although the Blyth captain admits that the cup run has been a welcome distraction from the league this term he was quick to point out that his side must remain focused on climbing the Blue Square North table.
“It’s nice to have a one off game to put the pressures of the league behind us but we’ve still got to remain focused on our league form because that is something that we really need to improve on.” said Armstrong.
The former Gateshead striker has still got a lot of friends from his time at the International stadium and is hoping he will have the bragging rights come the final whistle on Saturday.
“There are probably about eight or nine players who remain from my time there and I’ve spoken to quite a few of them since our win in the replay.
“I get on well with Ian Bogie and I’m pleased for them in the way they have progressed and this is the first time I have faced them since leaving so it will be an interesting experience for me especially.” he added.
Bogie and co will also be well aware of Armstrong’s likely strike partner for Saturday’s game, Jamie Mole, with the Gateshead manager at Croft Park last Tuesday night to witness Blyth’s recent signing score twice against Droylsden.
Armstrong said: “It hasn’t taken any time for Jamie to settle in as he is already banging in the goals.
“He will be a big threat and has looked really sharp despite his lack of football this season.”
Armstrong has also struggled for game time this season but is confident of lasting the full ninety minutes on Saturday if required.
He said: “It’s been a frustrating time for me so far as I’ve been struggling with injuries for most of the season.
“I started on Saturday and hopefully with a full week’s training behind me I’ll be a lot sharper by the time we face Gateshead and could last the full game.”
The talismanic forward is not underestimating the part that the home supporters can play on Saturday at Croft Park, saying: “The fans are going to play a massive part.
“They can act as a 12th man and give us a huge boost.”
He added: “Teams don’t enjoy coming to Croft Park and that might prove key to our success as there will be times in the game when we’ll rely on the crowd to keep us going.”
The FA cup tie at Croft Park on Saturday between Blyth Spartans and Gateshead is an all ticket affair.
Spartans supporters can still purchase tickets on Wednesday 9th November between 7pm and 9pm from the social club next to the ground.
Any remaining tickets will be on sale on the day of the match (Saturday November 12th) also from the social club, between 11am and 1pm.
Prices are £12 and £6 for concessions.
