My players have got a lot to learn
BLYTH Spartans manager Alun Armstrong believes his side is on a steep learning curve following promotion.
Back in Conference North after a five-year absence, Northern Premier League champions Blyth lost 2-0 at Alfreton on the opening day of the season.
A Luke Shiels goal eight minutes from the break was followed by another midway through the second half from Andre Johnson.
That left Armstrong’s men empty-handed from their trip to Derbyshire, FA Trophy holders York City next up for Spartans.
Armstrong said: “It was a massive learning curve for the players at Alfreton, though I still cannot understand how we did not score.
“We created enough chances but the final touch was not there.
“We were knocking on the door when Alfreton broke away to score their second.
“That killed us, you could tell that from the players’ body language, but it is great we now go straight into a big game against York.”
Last season’s leading scorer Dan Maguire is struggling with an ankle injury and Jordan Laidler is out after suffering a knee injury on Saturday.
Armstrong added: “If Maguire cannot play then that is a real problem as we are light up top and I am working on bringing a player in on loan.
“Sean Reid was a big miss at the weekend.
“He should be back tomorrow, which will give us an aerial prowess in both boxes.”
It was not all doom and gloom at Alfreton, Blyth looking to bounce back with consecutive home games this week.
Armstrong said: “Jarrett Rivers was excellent, he worked his socks off and we played good football at times - but we have to adapt to the quicker pace.”