Match Preview | Blyth Spartans vs Workington (Playoff Semi Final)
Tuesday, 26 April 2016
EVO STIK PREMIER DIVISION - PLAYOFF SEMI FINAL
Venue: Croft Park, Blyth (NE24 3JE)
Date: Tuesday 26th April 2016
Kick Off: 19:45
SCORE UPDATES / MATCH COMMENTARY
ADMISSION
£10 - Adults (+u10 y/o free)
£5 - Concessions
+£1 for seat in Port of Blyth Stand.
TEAM NEWS
So the playoffs begin. A home tie to Workington awaits supporters on what is to be a cold April Tuesday night in Blyth, yet the shear anticipation of the match shall keep the chill off people's minds.
Workington secured themselves a playoff position on the last day of the season, with a comfortable 5-0 home win against Buxton. Blyth were 100% certain that the play off tie would take place at Croft Park, when Darlington 1883 sealed the title at Whitby Town on Thursday. The tie tonight must see one team progress, so extra time and penalties will take place if required. Should Blyth win tonight, the final shall also take place at Croft Park on Saturday. Should the visitors win, the winner of the other play off tie between Salford and Ashton United will host the final.
Tom Wade has stated he has close to a full squad to choose from, but with long term absentee Ryan Hutchinson missing from selection. Midfielders Damen Mullen and Matthew Wade and defenders Nathan Buddle and Andrew Cartwright were rested on Saturday and could return to the starting 11. Arran Wearmouth has also been missing from the past two games through injury and is doubtful.
Goalkeeper Adam McHugh was benched for the tie against Marine. Between him, Fabian Otte and Nick Thomson, Blyth managed to record the 2nd best clean sheet record in all the English leagues (24), only to be between by Poole Town FC (25).
A larger crowd than normal is expected tonight, so it is advised to arrive earlier.
Season tickets are not valid for the game.
IN THE AWAY DUG OUT
Derek Townsley - Took charge of the club for the start of the season and has seen his team finish in the playoffs at his first attempt.
DANGER MAN
Scott Allison - April has been a good month for the striker, after recently collecting five goals in the last three games.
LAST TIME WE MET
Blyth Spartans 3-0 Workington - Monday 28th March 2016
http://blythspartansafc.co.uk/new_php/?p=14079
RECENT MUTUAL FRIENDS
Shaun Vipond
Joe Kendrick
Tommy Cassidy
Paddy Atkinson
Callum Hassan
OFFICIALS
Referee: Will Finnie
Assistants: Kirk Freeth and Andrew Kitchen
Fourth Official: Shane Sugden