By Stephen Burton
Blyth Spartans are back in action this Saturday following a near two-week break as Boston United visit Croft Park in National League North.
Last time out, Michael Nelson’s side endured their first home defeat of the season – falling to a 2-0 defeat to Chorley.
Spartans, currently sitting in 15th place, will face a Boston side who are three points above them in 10th, with four wins and four defeats so far this campaign.
TICKET INFORMATION
- We ask that all supporters purchase their tickets in advance via our online system.
- If you do not have online access, you can purchase your ticket by ringing the club office on 01670 352373 and paying with a debit or credit card. Your ticket can then be collected from the social club on match day.
- We will operate a cash turnstile. However we strongly encourage you to purchase your ticket in advance.
- Tickets purchased in advance must be printed or stored on your phone. Without proof of ticket, you will not be permitted into Croft Park.
- Advanced tickets can be bought up until 2pm on a matchday.
- Should you wish to sit in the Port of Blyth Stand, you should purchase in advance.
THE OPPOSITION
Boston have had a mixed start to the season so far.
While they’ve only lost once at home in all competitions, they have struggled on the road – their only success being a 2-1 win at Bradford Park Avenue.
Their last league outing was an impressive 4-1 win at home to AFC Telford United, with Danny Elliott (twice), Joe Leesley and Jake Wright getting amongst the goals at York Street.
On Tuesday, The Pilgrims exited the FA Cup in a Fourth Round Qualifying Replay following a 3-2 defeat at Stratford United.
Last six league games: WLWLWW
WHAT WE’RE SAYING
Speaking about the break from fixtures, Nelson said: “It gives us a chance to work on a few things and gives us a chance to work on fitness levels of the group.
“But it’s a long time to go when you’ve lost three on the bounce, without having a chance to put it right.
“I would like to think once myself and Micky came out of the changing room (after the Chorley game), one or two of the senior players had their say.
“Hopefully they’ll get together and we’ll see a response in the next game.”
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING
Boston boss Craig Elliott, speaking after his side’s defeat to Stratford, said: “I’m disappointed and as manager I’ll front up and take the criticism, but I think some of the players need to step up.
“I’m not going to slag individuals off, you’ve seen yourself we’re conceding too many goals as a team. But that’s my job, and I need to try and sort it.
“You always feel low after results like this – that’s natural.
“In football, you’ve got to look forward, move on. That’s the nature of it and that’s what we’ll do Saturday.”
LAST TIME WE MET
The sides last met in December 2020 as an injury-hit Spartans side fell to a 1-0 defeat, despite the heroics of then-goalkeeper Brendan Pearson.
Out of their seven clashes since Blyth’s promotion to National League North, there have been no draws between the sides. However Boston have had the better of it, winning five of their last seven meetings, including the last three on the bounce without conceding a goal.
Spartans two wins though, have been emphatic and have both come at Croft Park. Their last came in April 2018 in a 3-0 win, with goals from Dan Maguire, Sean Reid and Michael Liddle.
The season before that Blyth ran out 5-2 winners, with current captain Nathan Buddle getting on the scoresheet as well as Jarret Rivers and a hattrick for Maguire.
Last six meetings: LLLWLLW
MEDIA COVERAGE
Join Niall Bromley and Phil Castiaux on Blyth Live from 2:45pm.
Alternatively, you can follow the game via Twitter with HT and FT updates on Instagram and Facebook.