Tom talks - after the Worksop game

Blyth manager Tom Wade was very pleased with his side's continuing improvement in the 3 -2 victory over Worksop at Croft Park on Saturday.

"In the first half we played the best we have done so far since I took over," he said. "We held the ball well and created loads of chances. When you're playing well and creating chances usually you have to take them. We didn't in the first half but deserved the win in the end. We showed good character and all the lads were superb!"

A penalty miss by Joe Kendrick meant the sides went in level with no score at the break. Worksop took the lead early after the interval. Dale missed Blyth's second spot kick before equalising with a superb free kick.

Craig Hubbard took the Spartans' third penalty and scored before Lee Mason extended the home side's lead to 3-1.

An added time goal for Worksop concluded a rousing match.

Wade commented: "It was a great comeback by us. Missing penalties can kill you but the lads believe in themselves more now. It was a big ask for us but our work rate was good we did it."

The Blyth boss agreed that the game was another step forward for his team.

"Yes, it is. I said to the players before the game that they were playing for next season. If they want to be at Croft Park then they have to show it and I was pleased with the response," he said.

Wade thought there should have been a fourth penalty.

"Within a couple of minutes we should have had one. I think if it had been later in the game it would have been given. But maybe then we would have missed three rather than two! To be honest the referee did well throughout the game in letting play flow."

Wade revealed that midfielder Jack Stanger has left the club.

"I spoke to Jack on Saturday morning and he asked to leave to get games under his belt. I'm a bit disappointed as I saw him coming through next season but I can understand his point of view."

It is understood Stanger is returning to Consett.