Match Preview | Blyth Spartans v Ilkeston

Monday, 17 October 2016

EVO-STIK NORTHERN PREMIER DIVISION

Venue: Croft Park, Blyth (NE24 3JE)

Date: Tuesday October 18 2016

Kick Off: 7.45pm

SCORE UPDATES / MATCH COMMENTARY

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ADMISSION

£10 - Adults (+1 under 10 free with every paying adult)

£5 - Concessions

£1 Extra - Entry to Port of Blyth Stand

TEAM NEWS

Blyth Spartans host Ilkeston on Tuesday with Blyth seemingly recapturing their early season form and Ilkeston getting some wins on the board also - after a tough start to the season.

Spartans produced a fantastic display to come away from Hednesford Town with all three points on Saturday, with Sean Reid and Luke Armstrong grabbing the goals. Meanwhile, Ilkeston hammered Skelmersdale United 3-0 to record their third successive victory.

Blyth come into the game unbeaten in three games, with victories against Mickleover Sports and Hednesford Town either side of a battling point at Matlock Town. During this run, they've also kept clean sheets against Mickleover and Matlock.

Ilkeston currently sit in 20th place, but have several games in hand on their rivals. The Derbyshire-based side have hit their stride with three successive wins against Corby Town, Frickley Athletic and Skelmersdale United - following on from a return of only one victory from seven games.

There was a boost for Alun Armstrong's side on Saturday - as Dan Maguire came off the bench to make his return from a calf injury. Therefore, there's a distinct possibility that he may be recalled to the starting lineup on Tuesday evening.

RECENT FORM

Blyth Spartans - DLWDW

Ilkeston - LLWWW

IN THE AWAY DUGOUT

Paul Holland - The former Mansfield Town, Sheffield United, Chesterfield and Bristol City player - who also won 2 England U21 caps - was appointed manager this summer. His previous managerial experience came at Mansfield, with a brief caretaker stint and then permanent role a few seasons later.

DANGER MAN

Anthony Dwyer - The young striker is the Robins' top scorer this season with 5 goals. The Mansfield Town youth product who identifies his pace, strength and technique as his main attributes.

LAST TIME WE MET

Ilkeston 3 - 4 Blyth Spartans - Saturday April 2 2016 - Evo-Stik Premier League

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RECORD AGAINST OPPOSITION

Played - 14

Won - 6

Lost - 5

Drew - 3

Scored - 23

Conceded - 19

MUTUAL FRIENDS

Greg Pearson

Neal Hooks

Dan Lowson

Alex White

Rikki Bains