Interview | Evans looking forward to new season

By Niall Bromley

Rhys Evans says it is great to be back in pre-season with Blyth Spartans and is looking forward to the new National League North season.

Preparations for the upcoming campaign are underway, which is due to begin on Saturday, October 3 with an FA Cup second round qualifying tie. 

Michael Nelson, on Saturday, discussed the club’s return to pre-season and his recruitment search – which includes some trialists taking part in training sessions. 

Spartans have not played a game of any kind since March 7 following the Covid-19 outbreak, but hope to arrange pre-season friendlies in the coming weeks.

This forced the likes of Evans to maintain his fitness away from Croft Park and he did just that, with the help of a former Spartan. Now, Evans is enjoying being back in training, 

He told blythspartans.com: “I’ve kept on top of my fitness over the lockdown. 

“I’ve been off work so I’ve done lots of running with Cal (Roberts), mostly before his play-off games with Notts County. 

“The training sessions put on by the gaffer have been a big help too – it’s been great to get back to training and see the lads.

“There has been a lot of enthusiasm in training and a good atmosphere around the club. I just can’t wait to get going.

“I’m feeling good. I can’t wait to get started with the pre-season friendlies before we go into the new season.” 

During his first season at the club, Evans – alongside Robbie Dale – played the most number of games across all four competitions (37). 

A popular figure at Croft Park, Evans believes it is a big season for him and the club as they aim to climb the league table. 

Evans added: “I played almost 40 games last season during my first year at this level, so I feel the new season is a big one for me personally, as well as the club. 

“Last season didn’t go the way any of us wanted but hopefully we can build some momentum in the coming weeks and start well. 

“The fans were superb last year – we can’t thank them enough. We really want to give them something to shout about this season.” 

Posted by BSAFC Admin