Double penalty woe for Canaries
BARWELL fell to a first defeat in six league matches as Blyth Spartans claimed all three points at Croft Park, wrotes Oli Osborn.
Midfielder Matty Pattinson scored twice from the penalty spot to seal victory for the hosts.
The South African fired the home side ahead after Robbie Dale was brought down by Declan Towers halfway through the first half, sending Liam Castle the wrong way.
The goalkeeper bundled over Daniel McGuire for Blyth’s second penalty of the match, with Pattinson at hand to find the same corner to double his tally.
Jimmy Ginnelly’s men had good chances but were unable get themselves on the scoresheet during a difficult afternoon.
After starting brightly, Barwell conceded the first spot-kick midway through the first half as Declan Towers brought down Dale, who had waltzed through a number of tackles to find himself inside the area.
Former Newcastle United midfielder Pattinson stepped up and sent goalkeeper Castle the wrong way to break the deadlock.
The hosts appeared full of confidence after opening the scoring, with Richard Pell and Sean Reid unable to add a second with headers from corners in quick succession.
Just ahead of the half-time whistle, Callum Ball came inches from levelling the score after dragging an effort wide from the edge of the box.
The Canaries created a couple of long range chances following the break through Craig Stanley and Brady Hickey before the Spartans had the opportunity to give themselves breathing space.
Daniel McGuire was caught by an onrushing Castle close to the left byline, leaving the referee no option but to award another penalty for the home side.
Pattinson converted into the same corner to double his tally and put Blyth out of Barwell’s reach. A late header for Luke Barlone was well held by stopper Paul Woolston in the final few minutes.