Blue Square North

Aug 23 2008 The Journal

BLYTH Spartans have failed in their bid to sign two players ahead of this afternoon’s Blue Square North game against Workington at Croft Park – but manager Harry Dunn is still confident of completing the deals.

“We’ve been working on two possible transfers all week. They are two young lads both with football league experience,” he said. “In the case of one, the hold-up is because we need to check whether we require international clearance. The other lad is still considering a move and I don’t think anything will be sorted out before today’s match.”

Although he will continue in his attempts to strengthen his squad, Dunn is happy with his team’s performances despite the fact they have taken just three points out of nine.

Dunn has suffered a double blow in his preparations for today’s game with the Reds with both Chris McCabe and Kenny Boyle ruled out.

Gateshead are riding high but manager Ian Bogie has warned that things can change very quickly in Blue Square North. Following promotion from the UniBond League Premier Division last season, the Tynesiders have won two and drawn one of their three games. “We’ve made a really good start in our first season at this level. It is very competitive and there are an awful lot of good teams but fortunately we have some early points in the bag,” said Bogie.

This afternoon, Gateshead are at Gainsborough Trinity, where Craig Nelthorpe will make his seasonal debut. A left-sided attacking player, Nelthorpe has moved to the international stadium from Doncaster on a three-month loan deal.

Matt Hocking, who made 57 appearances for Hull City and has also played for Boston United, York City and Southport, is also named in Bogie’s squad.

MALCOLM PRATT