Tom talks - after the Ashton game

Although Blyth could only get a point from the game against Ashton on Tuesday manager Tom Wade was still able to find some consolation in the result.

"Ashton were one of my tips to at least reach the playoffs this year so, in a way, getting four points from the two games against a top side isn't too bad," he said.

"We started the game on Tuesday well but after about ten minutes it was like a tap had been switched off. There was nothing coming from us which was a little bit concerning. But we were missing key players. The midfield blend which Wadey [Matty Wade] and Twinny [Stephen Turnbull] gives us is hard to replace and it's difficult for the lads coming in who haven't played a lot this season to get up to the tempo we like to play at."

Blyth conceded after 11 minutes.

"We shouldn't have allowed Morning to get his cross in," said Wade. "Having said that he was a really good player who caused us many problems. But then Gee was free at the back post and able to score far too easily. Ashton then went on to dominate the first half.

"After the break we stuck in and worked hard - no-one can knock the players in that respect. "

The Spartans improved second half showing was rewarded when Sean Reid equalised on 59 minutes.

Wade commented: "It was a really good header. Sean had a good game and he deserved his goal. We could have sneaked the game late on but that wouldn't have been right really."

Blyth may have Ryan Hutchinson and Matty Wade back from injury for the trip to Buxton on Saturday although Stephen Turnbull is likely to miss the game.