By Stephen Burton
Blyth Spartans will be hoping to bounce back from their FA Cup disappointment as they return to National League North action at home to Chorley on Saturday.
Michael Nelson’s side exited the cup at the Third Qualifying Round stage last weekend in a narrow 1-0 defeat away to National League North rivals Guiseley.
Spartans are currently unbeaten at Croft Park this season – beating Alfreton Town and AFC Telford United, whilst drawing with Brackley Town, Darlington and FC United of Manchester.
TICKET INFORMATION
- We ask that all supporters purchase their tickets in advance via our online system.
- If you do not have online access, you can purchase your ticket by ringing the club office on 01670 352373 and paying with a debit or credit card. Your ticket can then be collected from the social club on match day.
- We will operate a cash turnstile. However we strongly encourage you to purchase your ticket in advance.
- Tickets purchased in advance must be printed or stored on your phone. Without proof of ticket, you will not be permitted into Croft Park.
- Advanced tickets can be bought up until 2pm on a matchday.
- Should you wish to sit in the Port of Blyth Stand, you should purchase in advance.
THE OPPOSITION
Chorley currently sit in ninth place in the National League North table, where they have racked up 10 points from six games so far this season.
The Magpies have only face two away fixtures so far this campaign with one win and one defeat.
Last time out, Jamie Vermiglio’s side drew 1-1 at home to Bradford PA with Jon Ustabasi putting the hosts ahead before the visitors snatched a late equaliser.
WHAT WE’RE SAYING
Speaking to BSAFCTV after Saturday’s game, Nelson said: “It shouldn’t take 45 minutes and a bit of a stern word from myself to get the players going.
“We go again on Saturday and we’ll get the lads prepared. We’ll come up with a plan and a shape and a team, whether we make changes or not, to do a job against Chorley.”
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
Speaking to the club’s YouTube channel after their 1-1 draw with Bradford, Chorley boss Vermiglio said: “You want to win your homes games, and when you’ve had 20 shots on target then you should really be winning. We’re all frustrated with it, if we take our chances the game is out of sight.
“We’re now four games unbeaten in the league, and we’ve picked up 10 points which is good.
“The endeavour of players is there it’s second to none, it’s the best group of Chorley players that we’ve had in terms of their work rate.”
LAST TIME WE MET
The last time the sides back was back in December 2018, where Spartans ran out 4-2 winners away at Victoria Park. On the scoresheet for Blyth that day were Jamie Holmes (twice), Dan Maguire and Sean Reid.
In their last four clashes in National League North, both sides have had two wins apiece, with both side’s enjoying success both home and away.
Blyth’s last home win against the Magpies was in September 2017, with Maguire and Nathan Buddle grabbing a goal each in a 2-0 victory.
BLYTH LIVE
Join Niall Bromley and Phil Casitaux on Blyth Live from 2:45pm.
Alternatively, you can follow the game via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.