The Chronicle

No case for the defence again as Blyth suffer Agg-ony of defeat

- By JEFF BOWRON

BLYTH Spartans were on the wrong end of a nine-goal thriller at Kiddermins­ter as they slipped to back-to-back defeats.

Despite leading twice, being ahead at the break and scoring four goals away from home, Blyth went down 5-4 a Aggborough.

It was great entertainm­ent for a crowd of 1,524 in a roller-coaster 90 minutes which showcased the good and the bad side of the Spartans.

Scoring goals is not a problem for Alun Armstrong’s side, Dale Hopson and David McTiernan with doubles on Saturday - but keeping them out is.

Spartans’ defending from corners was abysmal, the Harriers profiting with three headed goals from flag kicks.

Another came from a soft penalty given away by Nathan Buddle and both sides could have scored more goals in a game which was wide open.

Armstrong said: “It was a great game of football - but to score four goals away from home and lose is very frustratin­g.

“We were good going forward but our defending from corners was terrible.

We were done by set-plays and did not defend high balls into the box.”

With five players out Blyth were down to the bare bones in the Midlands, naming only four substitute­s - two of whom were young reserve players.

Armstrong added: “We desperatel­y need a big centre-half and a forward.

“Youngsters Karl Lazarri and Andy Murray had to go on the bench and it should not be like that.

“We have done well since promotion but need three players to continue the progress made.”

 ??  ?? David McTiernan scored twice for Blyth at Kiddermins­ter
David McTiernan scored twice for Blyth at Kiddermins­ter

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