Armstrong is relishing Spartans’ top test against the Ammies

BLYTH Spartans manager Alun Armstrong is confident his side will rise to the occasion against leaders Salford City tomorrow.

It is a top-four clash at Croft Park, Blyth yet to draw a game this season and the Ammies sharing the spoils only twice.

Armstrong said: “It is a game everyone is looking forward to against a Salford side flying high at the top.

“They are a club with high expectations, one which wants to get into the Football League and is looking for another promotion.

“They are full-time and you only have to look at the money they are paying and the players they have brought in to see their ambition.

“This game will be a really good test for us and the way we are playing at the minute we will give anyone a good game.

“We have tightened up at the back and even without Dan Maguire there are plenty of goals in the side.”

Maguire has been out with a thigh injury but could be on the bench against a Salford club run by Manchester United’s class of ’92.

Salford have won seven of their nine away games in National League North, where they possess the only unbeaten away record.

The Ammies, who include former Gateshead pair Liam Hogan and Gus Mafuta in their ranks, have struggled for results against North East sides.

An opening-day defeat against Darlington is one of only two in the league so far, Hogan sent off in a 1-1 draw at Spennymoor.

Armstrong added: “Salford are title favourites and have a strong squad but they will not relish a trip to Blyth and we intend to make it hard for them.”