SPARTANS SPARKLE AS RIVERS RUNS RIOT

BLYTH SPARTANS are up and running in the Vanarama North as they recovered from a goal down at Croft Park.

The Northumberland side were without a goal or point from their opening two games, and Alun Armstrong’s side were behind when Reece Styche opened the scoring, the first of a brace for the much-travelled striker.

The 28-year-old, capped once by Gibraltar, opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a great turn and finish.

Tamworth’s lead lasted just three minutes, however, as Ryan Hutchinson equalised for the home side when he latched on to a Dan Maguire cross.

Maguire then put Blyth ahead for the first time 10 minutes later when he picked up the ball on the edge of the box and fired into the top left-hand corner.

Spartans extended their advantage in the 56th minute when Jarrett Rivers volleyed home from the edge of the box.

The Lambs reduced the deficit two minutes later when Styche fired home from the penalty spot after Nathan Buddle had brought down the Lambs striker.

Armstrong’s men restored their two-goal lead midway when Dale Hopson netted from the spot after Luke Jones had fouled Maguire.

Styche then spurned an opportunity to great his hat-trick before Brad Reid headed wide. STAR MAN: Jarret Rivers (Blyth Spartans) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★