Armstrong desperate for the Spartans to enjoy a Cup of cheer

BLYTH Spartans’ manager Alun Armstrong has labelled Saturday’s FA Cup clash at Nantwich Town as a season-defining game.

Armstrong believes a cup run is crucial to Blyth’s hopes this season after the playing budget was cut for the 2018/19 campaign.

A significant increase in the prize money for each round means Blyth will bank a whopping £49,000 if they negotiate the three qualifying rounds.

Tomorrow’s second qualifying round carries a purse of £9,000, an increase of £4,500, with prize money for all rounds doubled.

Armstrong told The Chronicle: “The chairman wants a cup run and my priority will always be the league – but Saturday is massive for us.

“It is a season-defining game in many ways. We cannot go out at the first hurdle like we did last season, that would be disastrous.

“The FA Cup is a massive competition – one synonymous with Blyth Spartans.

“We want and need to do well in it. With all that is at stake it is a real pressure game and one we cannot afford to lose.

“There is a lot more money to play for now in the FA Cup and if we do have a run then I will be able to strengthen the squad. That is a massive incentive but the extra prize money brings added pressure.

“It is big money for this level of football.

“Nantwich are in the league below but will be tough opposition.

“They put four goals past Whitby last weekend and we will need to be on our mettle.”

Armstrong is hoping strikers Dan Maguire and Jamie Holmes will be fit for the trip to Cheshire but midfield man Kieran Green is still suspended.