Blyth Spartans ready to embrace stern test in FA Trophy clash vs Workington AFC

Blyth Spartans assistant manager Anthony Woodhouse has admitted that the club are “looking forward” to their testing FA Trophy clash with NPL Premier opponents Workington AFC this weekend.

Spartans make the trip to Cumbria on Saturday afternoon, and will hoping to cause something of an upset against a home side who currently sit eighth in the division above Marc Nash’s NPL East outfit.

And while Woodhouse has acknowledged that the looming tie will represent a stern challenge for his team, he has also suggested that Blyth are more than ready to embrace their role as underdogs and pit their wits against a fearsome opposition.

He said: “This is a good tie for the club and we are looking forward to the challenge of facing a club from higher up in the pyramid. Obviously, we know they have started the season very well and have built momentum from the second half of last season - so we know we will be facing a major test against a very good side.”

The Spartans coach added: “We will look at maybe having a chance to rotate to the squad because it’s a very busy season - but we want to go far in the competition because we know how important that is for our supporters and everyone at the club. You can talk about the income that brings into the club with the prize money, and that is important, but there is also a need to build momentum and grow confidence as we look to push on this season.”