Blyth Spartans v Blyth Town | Thursday, 1 January 2026 - 13:30 | League

A poor start to the new year for Spartans saw them defeated at home by local rivals Blyth Town.

As 1424 fans packed into Croft Park for the first league meeting between the two sides, there was a sense of anticipation amongst the home crowd for Spartans to earn back-to-back wins either side of the turn of the year.

In a first half where chances were limited, Blyth Town broke the deadlock in the 27th minute. Adam Johnson was on hand to smash home a devastating counterattack, handing the visitors the advantage.

Spartans struggled to gain any momentum in the opening 45 minutes, only creating half-chances and were unable to test Blyth Town keeper Kieran Hunter, meaning they trailed at the halfway point.

Half time: Blyth Spartans 0-1 Blyth Town

Spartans came out on the front foot at the beginning of the second half with what appeared to be more intent attacking play; however, they were still unable to crack open the Blyth Town defence and pull the game level.

Blyth Town doubled their lead in the 56th minute as a corner was whipped to the back post by Cameron Gascoigne, and Nathan Buddle was on hand to power home a free header, giving Spartans a mountain to climb in the final 30 minutes.

After some changes in personnel from Spartans, they managed to find a route back into the game from the penalty spot after Charlie Wood was brought down. Michael Fowler stepped up and powered the penalty into the bottom corner, sending Hunter the wrong way.

The goal gave Spartans hope heading into the final 10 minutes, and persistent pressure presented Zach Simpson with an opportunity to level the game. His strike from the edge of the area was blazed high over the bar, and still Spartans trailed.

With the game creeping towards full time, Spartans pushed for the equalising goal and with just minutes left on the clock, a glorious opportunity fell to second half substitute Dan Maw, who came agonisingly close to the leveller with the initial header which crashed off the post and the rebound which fell back to his feet was blazed wide via a deflection.

Full time: Blyth Spartans 1-2 Blyth Town

Blyth Spartans

Goal - Michael Fowler 81' (P)

Assist - Charlie Wood

Blyth Town

Goals - Adam Johnson 27' & Nathan Buddle 56'

Assist - Cameron Gascoigne

Yellow cards - Adam Johnson 64' & Dan Atkinson 74'

Referee - Stephen Beresford