Spartans face big cup tie at Gainsborough
BLYTH Spartans manager Alun Armstrong is hoping central defender Jordan Watson will be fit for tomorrow’s FA Cup clash in Lincolnshire.
The Spartans take on old rivals Gainsborough Trinity, who were relegated from National League North last season, in a thirdqualifying round tie.
Blyth did the double over the Holy Blues in 2017/18 but Trinity have started well in the league below.
Lee Sinnott’s side lost its 10-game unbeaten run at in-form Stalybridge in midweek but has a 100% record at the Northolme.
Gainsborough racked up 11 goals in their previous two FA Cup ties and have already knocked Chasetown and Halesowen out of the competition.
The Spartans have had a difficult first two months of the season but have won their last two games 1-0, including a Cup replay against Nantwich Town.
Blyth boss Alun Armstrong said: “Nantwich are in the same division as Gainsborough. They gave us two tough games and we are in for another on Saturday.
“With the financial rewards much bigger this season in the FA Cup it is important we are in Monday’s fourth qualifying round draw.
“We have bit of momentum after back-to-back wins and it was massive for us to keep two clean sheets.
“Jordan Watson played a big role in those shut-outs but he pulled up in training this week so we will have to see how he is.
“Blyth are famous for their FA Cup runs but we have not had one for a while – hopefully we will have one this season.”
Left-back Michael Liddle returns to the squad as Blyth search for their first away victory of the campaign.