Spartans handed huge blow in NPL East relegation fight.

Newton Aycliffe 1-0 Blyth Spartans

Credit: Blyth SpartansBlyth Spartans were dragged back into the relegation mix after losing to North East rivals Newton Aycliffe on Saturday.

Colin Larkin’s goal just before half time was the difference between the sides on the day.

The annual non league day was upon all clubs ranging from National League to the Northern Leagues and Blyth Spartans were hoping it would be a successful one.

Newton Aycliffe started brightly but it was Spartans with the first sight of goal as Paul Van-Zandvliet picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box and struck the upright.

Blyth saw another chance pass by them as Kyle Downey whipped a free kick towards Jack Vaulks who could only fire over from six yards.

The deadlock was eventually broken in the 41st minute as Larkin capitalised on a looping cross into the Spartans area and nodded home.

Half Time: Newton Aycliffe 1-0 Blyth Spartans

Newton Aycliffe started the second half as they ended the first creating multiple chances and were unfortunate not to double their lead.

Spartans made changes looking to turn the tide of the game but there was still little creativity on show Callum Dobson was called into action again to stop a dangerous counter from the home side.

Spartans pushed late on and were almost rewarded as a corner fell at the feet of Jordan Hickey but his effort was palmed away.

Arguably Blyth’s best opportunity of the second half presented itself to Jack Foalle in stoppage time but his effort trickled wide handing Newton Aycliffe a huge three points.

https://x.com/blyth_spartans/status/2037936572541055246?s=46&t=5JlWsCYf9CiQchEBlj2odQ

Spartans return to Croft Park for their next league match after two on the road, they prepare to face fellow strugglers Silsden next Saturday.