Tom talks - after the Stourbridge game

Spartans manager Tom Wade thought his side did well on Saturday against Stourbridge at Croft Park in the face of several challenges.

"There was a degree of tension around the ground before kickoff," Wade said. "We were a little nervous. Maybe the pressure was on us. Most of the players have only played a season or two at this level and the need to win the game maybe influenced the way we played. The weight of expectation weighed heavily on their shoulders.

"Having said that we did well. Stourbridge have brought in some quality players since we beat them at their place a few weeks ago and it was always going to be difficult for us, with injuries in our squad as well."

A Stephen Turnbull free kick put Blyth ahead before right back Alex Nicholson made it 2-0 with a screamer.

The Blyth boss commented: "Alex had another good game and his goal was a cracker! He's turning in to the top quality player we hoped he'd become when we signed him. He feels part of the team now and in the last few matches he's been on fire.

"I thought other positives to take from the weekend were the developing pairing of the centre backs, Ryan Nicholson and Danny Parker, Nipa [Daniel Maguire] was outstanding as usual, and is improving all the time. Then, in addition, keeper Nick Thomson was superb once more."

Wade faces a number of issues for his side's visit to Marine on Tuesday. Several players are struggling to get time off work and Stephen Turnbull will have to miss out having exams the following day.