BY Stephen Burton
Blyth Spartans return to National League North action on Saturday with a long trip to early pace-setters Gloucester City at Meadow Park.
Michael Nelson’s men will be hoping to bounce back after a disappointing FA Cup exit to Marske United in midweek.
THE OPPOSITION
In winning their opening two games, manager Jason Rowe has overseen the Tiger’s best start to a league season since 1996.
Their last outing was a 2-1 win away to Chorley, with Gavin Gunning sealing the points with a stunning free-kick midway through the second half.
In many ways the season has already been a memorable one for Gloucester. After 13 years in exile, they have finally returned to their home at Meadow Park, after the flooding largely destroyed the ground in 2007.
WHAT WE’RE SAYING
Speaking after Wednesday’s defeat to Marske, boss Michael Nelson said: “It’s going to be completely different on Saturday.”
“We’ve learned from tonight, and we’ve also learned from the second half against Telford, and we take that into Saturday coming.”
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
Defender George Carline told the Gloucester City website: “It’s been a good start, but that’s all it is.
“It’s a couple of games and we know we’re not going to get ahead of ourselves.
“I don’t think until 10-15 games into the season to get an idea of how teams are performing.”
LAST TIME WE MET
The side’s last met on the opening day of last season at Croft Park.
A Damen Mullen strike proved to be a mere consolation as Spartans slipped to a 2-1 defeat.
BLYTH LIVE
Join Craig Dobson and Phil Castiaux on Blyth Live from 2:45pm * for full match commentary.
*Subject to permission and power supply from Gloucester City.