ONE North East, the northeast’s regional development agency, uses the strap line ‘Passionate People, Passionate Places’ to promote the region.
It is now a phrase which is becoming increasingly applicable to Mick Tait’s Blyth Spartans.
The manager explained “What really pleased me about our 2-0 FA Trophy win over Ilkeston at the weekend was the way everyone is pulling in the same direction, playing with a great determination to win and displaying a tremendous workrate. There is a passion around Croft Park now – among the players and supporters. The players are starting to gel – you’ve got to remember that it is basically a new squad from last year, they’re creating a real team spirit with everyone working hard for each other which comes with time. I can try and create the atmosphere to help it grow but in the end it is down to the players themselves.”
Tait suggested that this fervour was to be seen across this side on Saturday despite a quiet start.
“We took a little while to get going, which has been a recurring problem this season but we dug in, worked hard, began to win all the battles across the pitch and gradually following all that effort the football began to come.”
Ilkeston had the better of the early exchanges with the tricky Sam Duncum causing problems but Blyth settled down after Stephen Turnbnull put the home side ahead after 22 minutes. His cross eluded his colleague Michael Tait, who attempted to steer the ball into the net, but also eluded Lowson in the Ilkeston goal who seemed to anticipate Tait making contact.
The Spartans increased their lead five minutes later when Man of the Match Tait powered home a header following a Turnbull corner.
“The goal was down to good delivery and the timing of Michael’s run. They must have had six or so players who were over 6’ 2” tall but Michael managed to get between the defenders to meet the ball perfectly.”
Blyth’s clean sheet reflected an improved defensive performance than of late.
“We got people behind the ball really well and defended set pieces much better than in some recent games” said Tait. “The big issue I raised before the game was that we had to stop them getting crosses into our box. That’s what was unacceptable in the League game against Ilkeston earlier in the season. Stephen Turnbull was really enjoying himself on our left side, pushing forward at every opportunity while also stopping their right back from supplying crosses.
“And although Duncum was always going to be threat I thought Darren Craddock handled him well.”
Blyth had numerous chances to extend their lead and were guilty of overplaying on occasions. It’s an issue Tait recognised.
“Yes it’s possible that sometimes we do try and walk the ball into the net but that’s just because of the type of players we have. They like to play good football. Maybe we should shoot more from distance and actually we have benefited from doing that earlier this year. It’s something we need to improve.”
The win puts Blyth into the last 32 of the competition and Tait is hoping for a good draw in the next round.
“ Ideally I’d like a poor side at Croft Park or a big name like Oxford. I’d be happy with either of those extremes.”
Tait spent four years with Oxford as a young player so the attraction of that possible tie is doubly obvious.
Blyth entertain Stalybridge next weekend in what will be difficult fixture following their recent run of good results but Tait isn’t worried about any opposition.
Michael Tait will miss the game through suspension but the Blyth boss is delighted to have Robbie Dale and Chris McCabe back following long absences.
“Those lads are Blyth through and through and having them available again means there is increased competition for places. More and more of our lads are now showing a similar commitment to the club, which is great to see”.
Passion and pride often go hand in hand and when Tait speaks of the growing passion around the team his own pride in their continuing development is tangible.