Blyth Spartans v Ashington AFC | Monday, 25 August 2025 - 15:00 | League

Blyth Spartans were denied victory in the cruellest fashion as a stoppage-time equaliser saw Ashington snatch a point in a fiercely contested Northumberland derby at Croft Park.

Spartans started brightly in the sunshine, with the first clear opportunity arriving in the 27th minute. Arran Wearmouth slipped a clever ball through to Charlie Wood, who broke in behind the defence, but his low strike was blocked by the legs of the visiting goalkeeper.

Chances were otherwise limited in a cagey opening period, and the sides went into the break goalless.

Half time: Blyth Spartans 0-0 Ashington AFC

After the restart, Blyth stepped up a gear and were rewarded on 59 minutes. Pressing high, Paddy McClafferty won possession on the edge of the box and calmly slotted past the advancing keeper to put Spartans 1-0 up.

With the momentum in their favour, Blyth pushed for a second and looked the more dangerous side. However, a lack of ruthlessness in front of goal left the door open, and as the clock ticked past 90 minutes, Ashington threw everything forward.

Spartans defended bravely, with goalkeeper Callum Dobson commanding his area and the back line repelling wave after wave of pressure. Yet, deep into stoppage time, heartbreak struck. In the 98th minute, Sam Davison forced the ball home from close range to deny Spartans a deserved three points.

A bitter ending for Blyth, who must now regroup and turn their focus to the weekend's fixture.

Full time: Blyth Spartans 1-1 Ashington AFC

Goals - Paddy McClafferty 59', Sam Davison 98'