We turn our attentions to the opening game of 2023 with a comprehensive preview of Blyth Spartans’ National League North visit to The Brewery Field on New Year’s Day.
Spennymoor Town v Blyth Spartans
Sunday 1st January 2023, 3pm
National League North
The Brewery Field
In Opposition
Blyth Spartans will arrive at The Brewery Field on New Year’s Day keen to gain some quick revenge following Moors’ 3-1 victory at Croft Park on Boxing Day.
Graham Fenton’s side currently lie second bottom in the table and will be hoping that the New Year can bring with it some improved form and a platform on which they can climb away from danger.
There were some encouraging signs for Spartans fans during the latter part of 2022, such as the impressive 4-2 FA Trophy win over Buxton which was followed up by an away victory at Curzon Ashton in the league.
A testing January schedule will see them play four of their next five away from home so they will be keen to kick-off 2023 with a positive result in County Durham.
One To Watch
Cedric Main looked a bright spark during the Boxing Day clash between the sides and will have to be well marshalled by the Moors defence once more this weekend.
Born in the Netherlands, Main spent last season on the books at South Shields before sealing a move to Blyth Spartans back in September.
Spartans boss Graham Fenton had worked with the front man during his time in charge at Shields so was keen to add his quality to the squad at Croft Park.
Head To Head
Having beaten Blyth Spartans on Boxing Day, Moors have now tasted victory in six of the last nine competitive meetings between the two clubs.
Moors have also beaten Spartans on each of their last two visits to The Brewery Field, triumphing 3-0 last term and enjoying a 5-0 victory in 2019/20.
On The Whistle
Jamie O’Connor will be the man in the middle for this afternoon’s encounter, and he will be assisted by Tom Maher and Paul Mosley.
Tickets
The game at The Brewery Field on New Year’s Day is segregated.
Tickets are on sale in advance online to both home and away supporters, though both Moors and Spartans fans can also pay by cash or card on their respective turnstiles ahead of kick-off too.
Click here for full ticket information.
Live Coverage
If you can’t make it to Sunday’s game then join us on Durham OnAir where we’ll once again be delivering full live and uninterrupted commentary on the action.
Mark Simpson will be live from The Brewery Field from 2.50pm with supporters able to access the live coverage online, via the Durham OnAir app, on DAB radio or on Freeview Channel 277.
Betting
Moors are rated 8/11 favourites for three points on New Year’s Day, with visitors Blyth Spartans priced up at 3/1 and a draw available at odds of 12/5.
