Tom talks - after the Ashington game

Blyth boss Tom Wade commented on his side's showing in the 5-2 win at Ashington and on the friendly at Benfield this Tuesday.

"It was a good game at Ashington," he said. "We gave a couple of sloppy goals away but that will happen pre-season. But that was our only concern. We played what were, effectively, two different sides in each half and both did really well. We had a few chances in the first half which we didn't take but in the second half we converted our chances.

"Ashington were great hosts and I'm sure the large crowd enjoyed a good game of football to watch."

Wade is eagerly anticipating Tuesday's game away at Benfield.

"I have great memories of my time with them, winning the League and League Cup double," he said. "They have a good set of lads there at the moment, and there are a few Blyth connections in their squad too. The pitch is a good one and there is a healthy relationship between both clubs. We will be using the game to work more on our shape and building on our form."

The Spartans will be without trialist Andrew Cartwright who sustained a slight hamstring injury at Ashington. In addition midfielder Neal Hooks is unavailable.