Spartans looking to secure top-eight spot with win at Nuneaton

BLYTH Spartans are targeting a top-eight finish in their first season back in the second tier of non-league football.

But for a disastrous final two months of the campaign, Spartans could have been preparing for a run in the playoffs. Instead they now look to draw the curtain tomorrow away at Nuneaton Town.

Alun Armstrong’s side will look to close out the National League North campaign with back-to-back wins.

Tuesday’s 2-1 win over lowly Curzon Ashton concluded a run of four home games in eight days, with Spartans recording two wins and two defeats.

Blyth beat tomorrow’s opponents 6-3 in a dramatic game at Croft Park in October with Dale Hopson bagging a hat-trick, including two penalties.

Dan Maguire also scored twice, and while he is set to play in the return match Hopson is one of a lengthy injury list.

Many of Blyth’s Green Army will head for the Midlands in fancy dress as is tradition for the final away game of the season.

And manager Armstrong, frustrated by poor results in the final two months, is keen to give them something to shout about.

He said: “It’s been a long hard season and the lack of games due to the weather produced a fixture back log.

“Injuries to key players were another factor, but for a promoted side we’ve still had a great season.”

Armstrong singled out goalkeeper Peter Jameson for praise ahead of the final game at Liberty Way.

“Jameson is one of the best goalkeepers in the league. He has been a good signing and hopefully we’ll sign off with a win,” he added.