Tough test for Blyth as they aim to get Brack to winning ways

BLYTH Spartans will look to cash in on a restricted programme in Vanarama National League North.

Due to the FA Cup, only six of the scheduled 11 games will take place, with Blyth the only North East side in action.

Both high-flying Spennymoor Town and Darlington are idle, while York City are at Swindon in the Cup.

It won’t be easy for Blyth to ease their problems at the wrong end of the table.

Spartans travel to in-form FA Trophy holders Brackley Town, who have lost just two of their last 15 games.

The sixth-placed Saints are one of the highest scorers in the division and have lost just one of their eight games at home.

Blyth head for Northamptonshire just two points outside the relegation zone and in need of a lift.

Last weekend’s chastening 3-0 defeat at home to FC United of Manchester followed two away victories.

Blyth boss Alun Armstrong (right) said: “I set a target of seven points from the last three games and we got six. Unfortunately we undid all the good work at Guiseley with a terrible performance against FC United.

“We now face a tough trip to one of the best sides in the league – and we’ll probably go there and get a result.”

Blyth lost 3-1 at Brackley last season, Dan Maguire with the goal, and will hope for better on their return to St James Park.