Spartans sign stoppers

Blyth Spartans have moved to sign two more goalkeepers, to give the recently re-signed Conor Grant some competition for the number one jersey.

James Howarth and Ryan Graham have both agreed to join the club, after impressing during the pre-season sessions so far.

Howarth joins from Newcastle Benfield and the 20-year-old is gunning for a starting role this season.

He said: "I'm very happy to be joining. It's a big club and I'm sure I can make a big contribution to the team, starting with the game tomorrow hopefully.

"Everything about this club appealed to me. I knew the stature of the club with being local and, after Colin rang me up, I wanted to make the move as soon as I could.

"I'm not here to be a number two. I'm here to take the number one spot and I believe I can do that."

Fellow stopper Graham is also "Over the moon" about joining Blyth.

When asked what attracted him to the club, the 22-year-old said: "Well, it's Blyth Spartans, isn't it? It's the biggest Non-League club in the North East so, when you get asked, you don't turn it down.

"It's a good opportunity for a young keeper like myself to get the chance here. Obviously, there are two other quality goalkeepers here and everyone's going for just one shirt.

"I'll just keep pushing myself to work hard in training and, hopefully, get my chance."

And, after seeing them both in action during training and matches, manager Tom Wade is happy to have the pair at Croft Park for the new season.

He said: "James played for North Shields against us on Saturday. He was meant to play the second half for us, but ended up playing for them.

"He was outstanding, to be honest. He had a really good game.

"But they'll both get their chance to show what they can do. They've trained well so far and there's a bit of depth now as well."