Blyth Spartans 2 Altrincham 1 (Chairman’s Reaction)

Blyth Spartans' Chairman Tony Platten believes victory over Altrincham in the FA Trophy can be a catalyst for further success both on and off the field at Croft Park.

Blyth will receive a cash injection of £6,000 for reaching the 3rd round of the competition but the Chairman knows that a good cup run can be worth a lot more to the future stability of the football club. He said: "It will create more interest in the town and will hopefully increase the size of the gate for league matches. We have the momentum now and the team are playing well. We are only half way through the season so there's still a long way to go, anything can happen. The win today ensures the season is still very much alive and will give us further confidence in the league."

Before kick-off there was a presentation on the pitch for 18 year old goalkeeper Mark Gillespie who will now return to Carlisle following his 3 month loan spell at Croft Park. Tony Platten praised the young stopper for his displays this season: "He's put in some great performances. We wish him all the best in his career and we thank Carlisle for letting us have him on loan. It's a shame he can't stay and be a part of the cup run because he has helped us get this far."