Friendly Matchday Programme Preview

Football returns to Croft Park on Saturday afternoon (July 5) as Spartans kick-off their pre-season campaign against Whitley Bay.

The two clubs met at home and away this time last year, with Spartans winning both encounters. This season, the friendly is part of the first ever Blyth Spartans Beer Festival, with the match, kicking off at 3pm, being just part of the entertainment on offer.

Just a week later (July 12), Croft Park will see more action, this time with visitors from across the border, as Scottish Championship side Cowdenbeath come to town. The Blue Brazil narrowly escaped relegation in the play-offs last season. This game is also a 3pm kick-off.

Then, the following Tuesday (July 15) at 7:30pm, you can catch Spartans take on Northern League side Shildon, as both sides look to step up their preparation for their respective league campaigns.

A pre-season matchday programme will be available, covering all three matches in detail, with everything you need to know about Croft Park's visitors. The issue will be on sale at all three games at normal venues.

General Manager Ian Evans welcomes supporters to Croft Park, and Malcolm Stephenson returns in his View From the Terrace column.

Manager Tom Wade is excited about the new season, and tells supporters all they need to know about his new signings and what can be expected of the team this term.

Words from all the new signings, plus those who secured their future at Croft Park for another year, can also be found in the season's first new-look edition.

Look to grab Matthew Wade for a signature at some point if you can, as he features in the player poster, along with much more to enjoy in Blyth's official matchday read.

The edition, which covers all three matches in detail, can be bought from usual places for a price of £2.