Torn loyalties…

Martin Lawlor is the Chief Executive of the Port of Blyth and also a Hartlepool season ticket holder. He recently talked to the Spartans' Match Day Programme.

Martin, who in his own words is 'the wrong side of 50', was born and bred in Hartlepool, has supported the club since he was eight years old and has had a season ticket at the Victoria Road ground for over 30 years.

"I've worked for the Port of Blyth since about 1995 so I've been waiting 20 years for this - an FA Cup tie between my club and the Spartans," he said. "I first got involved with the Spartans through the Port's sponsorship activities. Over time I've been down to matches at Croft Park for lots of Port of Blyth Player of the Month presentations so I do have an affinity with the club."

Martin is responsible for ensuring the Port runs smoothly and for bringing in new business from across northern Europe including Germany and Estonia.

"The Port is a major, and historic business located in the heart of the town, just like the Spartans," he said. "So us joining forces with the club was an obvious thing to do. We strongly believe in our responsibilities to the community and we enjoy bringing customers to see matches."

Martin has a love of football which means, in his own words that he 'can't even pass a Sunday morning game without having to stop and watch it' but he is clearly excited about the prospect of the big game on the 5th December.

"Whatever the result one of my teams will be in the third round with the chance of meeting a Premier League side so that's great."

How does he see the game going?

"Well, I've only missed one home game this season and I have to say Hartlepool have been rubbish! I haven't watched Blyth recently but I think the most likely outcome will be a draw. The result of the replay....I'll plead the fifth amendment on that one! I will be there though, possibly presenting a Blyth player with the November Port of Blyth Player of the Month Award!"