Tow Law v Blyth Spartans | Tuesday, 8 July 2025 - 19:30 | Friendly

Date: Tuesday, July 9

Stadium: Ironworks Road

Time: 7:30pm KO

Ticket Prices: £5 for adults, £3 for concessions.

Blyth Spartans kick off their 2025/26 pre-season campaign on Tuesday evening with a trip to Tow Law Town at Ironworks Road.

It's the first chance for fans to see Colin Myers' new-look Spartans in action, with the squad undergoing a major rebuild following relegation. With plenty of new signings in the group, this opening fixture offers a valuable opportunity to begin building match sharpness, chemistry, and a fresh team identity.

Among the new arrivals is striker Benji Shodeinde, who joins after a standout season for Jarrow, netting 25 goals in Northern League Division Two. In defence, former Tow Law full-back Jake Dobinson could line up against his old club as part of a youthful back line looking to make its mark.

The Opposition: Tow Law Town

Established in 1890, Tow Law Town have a long and proud history in Northeast football. Known for their remarkable 1967/68 FA Cup run, they famously thrashed Mansfield Town 5-1 and forced a replay with Shrewsbury Town in the second round.

They also reached the FA Vase Final in 1998 and have long been a staple of the Northern League. After finishing 22nd in Division One last season, the Lawyers are now preparing for life in Division Two and have signed 13 new players over the summer in response.

Both clubs enter this fixture with fresh squads and a focus on laying early foundations for the season ahead.

One to Watch

Tow Law forwards Sol Tones and Reece Marsden are likely to lead the line. Tones has already opened his account in pre-season, while Marsden provides physical presence and will be one to watch for a Spartans back line looking to gel.

From the Dugout

Dion Raitt leads Tow Law into the new campaign, having first been appointed in 2023. Alongside his coaching, Raitt is known for his safeguarding work in football, including roles with the FA Survivor Safeguarding Advisory Group and the Offside Trust.

Tuesday's match is the first step in what promises to be an exciting new chapter for the club. Spartans fans making the journey to Ironworks Road can expect an early glimpse of what's to come under Colin Myers, and your support will be hugely appreciated.