Blyth Spartans 2 Altrincham 1 (Manager’s Reaction)

Sunday, 16 January 2011

Blyth Spartans' manager Mick Tait was full of pride in his team's performance after a scintillating display against Blue Square Bet Premier side Altrincham in the FA Trophy.

Tait said: "We were outstanding in the first half. I could never have imagined we would play as well as that on such a poor surface. We played some tremendous football, the passing was superb. The only concern I had was about converting our chances. It was just starting to go through my mind that it was going to be one of those days when nothing would go in for us and then the goal came at just the right time."

The Spartans manager warned his players before kick-off not to underestimate their opponents: "They might be in a poor league position but they've had some very good results of late and there was no way they would be an easy target, I had to make sure the players were aware of that. We had to make sure we matched their work rate and commitment. I said that if we showed the same attitude and determination that we showed against Fleetwood we would have a great chance."

With many Blue Square Bet Premier sides still in the competition Mick Tait is remaining realistic about his chances of guiding The Spartans to FA Trophy glory. He said: "Some of the club's in the Premier might target this competition at the start of the season but we're just taking each game as it comes. We know we're not one of the top teams left in the draw but we believe we can give anybody a game, especially at home."

Tait was also quick to highlight the importance of Blyth's loyal supporters: "They've been magnificent for us. The players have done their bit to get the crowd going at times but the atmosphere is excellent and it's obvious why nobody likes playing at Croft Park. It has a reputation as a fortress now (Croft Park) you could see that in the way Droylsden celebrated when they won here."

Paul Brayson's second goal against Altrincham was his 50th for Blyth Spartans and Mick Tait is not surprised it has only taken the striker a season and a half to rack up a half century of goals for the club: " That's what Brassy (Paul Brayson) is in the team for, he's done it all his career. You can't allow him a few yards because he'll punish you. He loves to peel off his marker and we play to his strengths by giving him the ball in the right areas."

After suffering back to back defeats in the league Tait was delighted to get back to winning ways: "We've shown that we're mentally strong and that we have the character to bounce back. We could have won both those games but the lads haven't let their heads drop and they've responded in the right way."