Preview | Gateshead (a) | National League North | 21/22

It's a quick turnaround for Blyth Spartans as they visit the International Stadium on Tuesday night to take on rivals Gateshead.

After three straight home wins, Terry Mitchell's side were stunned by York City on Saturday, as two quickfire first-half goals helped the Minstermen on their way to a 3-0 win.

Ticket Information

Any fans still holding tickets from the postponed Boxing Day fixture can use them to for entry on Tuesday night. Otherwise tickets can be purchased online, here - or purchased at the gate.

All away fans will be sat in the East Stand.

Admission prices are as follows:

• Adults - £14
• Concessions (Over 65s, U18s, Students, Armed forces/emergency services) - £9
• U16s - £4
• Carers - free of charge

Team News

There are no injury concerns in the squad, after Nathan Buddle returned to the squad on Saturday.

Opposition

Mike Williamson's side have enjoyed a fantastic season so far, and currently sitting second place in National League North as they push for promotion. However, they've lost their grip on top spot recently following a draw with York City, then slipped to a 3-0 defeat at home to AFC Fylde on Saturday.

What We're Saying

After Saturday's defeat, Mitchell spoke of the importance of managing the squad in what is a packed fixture list for February. "We said to the lads before the game, we have seven games in February and need to utilise the squad. We'll look to Tuesday and see how we can freshen it up. Of course we'll be looking to bounce back- I'll be watching back our game back and look at Gateshead's last couple of games to ensure we're prepared.

I trust the lads will look after themselves next couple of days as it's a quick turnaround. We've got a full squad and there'll all in contention to start, and we'll look at it and put the best team out to hopefully get a result Tuesday night."

What They're Saying

Speaking after his side's defeat against Fylde, Williamson felt a local derby was the ideal chance for Gateshead to bounce back. "It's always frustrating when you don't show your best. But what the lads do give is 100% every single game and that's a prerequisite. You're going to have days when quality and decision making aren't quite at the levels we're used to but that's human nature.

It's the perfect game (against Blyth). They got beat at the weekend so we'll both be looking to get a response. The formbook goes out the window and it'll be about who deals with the occasion the best."

Last Time We Met

The side's last met at the turn of the year as Blyth came from behind to win 2-1 at Croft Park in a hard fought win.

The win continued Spartans recent good form over their rivals, as they go into Tuesday's game unbeaten in their last four against the Heed.

Blyth's last win at the International Stadium came on Boxing Day 2019 as Robbie Dale's spectacular volley five minutes from time secured Spartans all three points in a thrilling match. On that day Callum Roberts and Kris Thackray also got themselves on the scoresheet.

Media Coverage

Join Niall Bromley and Phil Castiaux on Blyth Live from 7:30pm.

Alternatively you can follow the game via our social media channels.