Tom talks - after the Skelmersdale game

A point against the top of the league side would normally be regarded as a perfectly acceptable outcome to any game but Spartans manager Tom Wade begged to differ following his side's 1-1 draw against Skelmersdale United on Tuesday night at Croft Park.

Wade commented: "To be honest it felt like a defeat. We should have put Skelmersdale away big-style. We could have been three or four up before they scored."

Blyth created numerous chances before taking the lead after 35 minutes courtesy of Jonathyn Quinn.

"Quinny took his goal well," said Wade. "But if we had added to it they would have buckled. They'd had a tricky journey to the north east and, with us being experts in travelling, we knew they'd be fragile. But, once again, we didn't take our chances although we played well and dominated the play. We need a proven goal scorer."

The visitors equalised late on as Blyth's legs seemed to go.

"We did look a bit tired towards the end but you have to remember Skem are not the top of the league for nothing," said the Blyth boss.

Turning to this weekend's big FA Cup tie at Leek Wade remained positive.

"We'll keep things ticking over in training on Thursday. We will certainly give it our best on Saturday. The players will be buzzing and I believe our supporters will be too and turning out in their numbers to cheer us on. I expect to have a full squad available, except for the suspended Nathan Buddle, with Chris Bell returning and Danny Parker back in training."