Blyth Spartans v Matlock Town | Saturday, 27 September 2025 - 15:00 | League

Blyth Spartans won for the first time since August, beating promotion-chasing Matlock Town 2-1 at Croft Park in the Northern Premier League East.

Spartans were coming into this game off the back of a solid point at home to Emley and were looking to carry the same performance into the match against the Gladiators.

Blyth got off to the perfect start when new boy Jeremy Perera arrived at the back post to give Spartans the lead inside the first few minutes from a great delivery by Kyle Downey.

Spartans didn't let up, and the early goal boosted them with confidence, and the visitors couldn't cope with Blyth's intensity off the ball with tackles flying in left, right and centre, which was welcomed by cheers from the fans.

Just before the break, Matlock started to shift the momentum in their favour, and with that, they got the equaliser. Ben Sault capitalised on a mix-up at the back from a throw-in which wasn't dealt with properly, and he rounded Callum Dobson to slot into an empty net.

Half time: Blyth Spartans 1-1 Matlock Town

Dobson was called into action with just under 25 minutes to go when he tipped Conor Washington's shot around the post.

Only a few minutes later, Spartans had a chance of their own to go in front when Euan Potts went into a 50/50 with Matlock keeper Jake Oram, and the ball fell to Benji Shodeinde, who had a good chance to score, but he blazed his shot over the bar.

With just fifteen minutes left, Blyth retook the lead. Paddy McClafferty's looping shot from inside the box flew into the right corner to give the Spartans the lead.

The Gladiators were throwing everything at Blyth in the dying embers, and they nearly got the equaliser with substitute Josh Granite's header crashing against the post.

Even with the late onslaught from Matlock, Spartans defended well to hold on and clinch a massive three points, which can hopefully be a springboard for more wins throughout the season.

Full time: Blyth Spartans 2-1 Matlock Town

Goal scorers: 2' Perera, 38' Sault & 75' McClafferty

Blyth Spartans Subs: 68' On: Danny Anderson, Off: Kyle Downey

72' On: Addis Dore, Off: Benji Shodeinde

79' On: Dan Maw, Off: Euan Potts

Yellow Cards: 87' Matty Slocombe

Spartans are next in action on Saturday as we welcome Ossett United to Croft Park for a 3:00 pm KO.