Armstrong urges Spartans to get their first points on the board

BLYTH Spartans face two pivotal games in five days as they look to banish their early-season blues.

Defeats at Hereford and at home to Bradford Park Avenue have left Spartans still searching for their first point.

Tomorrow they take on title favourites Chester, who followed up a goalless draw against Spennymoor with a 3-0 win at Curzon Ashton.

The Croft Park clash is followed by the short trip to Darlington on Wednesday. Blyth manager Alun Armstrong has been unhappy with his side’s first-half displays in the opening two games.

He said: “We have not been good enough in the opening 45 minutes and have ended up chasing the game. We are paying the price for another poor pre-season.

“Some players are not fit enough yet and it is all very frustrating.

“We now have two massive games. These are the ones the players relish and we need to get our foot in the door.

“There is no panic – but plenty of frustration – because it isa long old season but we need to get points on the board. Chester will be up there at the end of the season and an early-season derby at Darlington is another big fixture for us.”

Problems at the centre of defence are easing with Hartlepool loanee Aaron Cunningham available after suspension.

On-loan Sunderland defender Sam Brotherton is a doubt due to injury having missed the midweek defeat against Bradford PA.