Blue Square North

Aug 30 2008 by Malcolm Pratt, The Journal

FORMER Sunderland favourite Martin Smith is expected to make his debut for Blyth Spartans in this afternoon’s Blue Square North game against Hucknall at Croft Park.

Manager Harry Dunn has been looking to add fire power to his attack and sees Smith as the ideal man to increase his team’s goals tally.

He said: “I met Martin yesterday afternoon and his registration should go through by the 11am deadline. I’m confident he’ll play some part in the game.”

A blow for Dunn though is the unavailability of the former Darlington and Gretna player Michael Tate, whose international clearance has yet to be obtained.

Dunn said: “Michael played for Gretna last season so we have to go through the procedure which is frustrating but that’s the way it is and he has still not been given permission to turn out for us”.

Another recent addition, Adam Gladwin is also ruled out since he is attending a wedding but Dunn is very hopeful Ged Dalton and Robbie Dale will be able to turn out.

he said: “Our home form is 100% and I’m looking for three points, even though I’ll be missing a couple of players. Hopefully, Martin Smith will add a sparkle to the attack.”

Gateshead manager Ian Bogie envisages a difficult match at Hinckley United despite the fact he will have a full squad to choose from.

“I think we’ve done very well during our first season in Blue Square North. It’s quite a step up from the Unibond League Premier Division and although these are very early days it’s comforting to be in fifth position,” he said.

“Having said that, I was disappointed with Monday (a 3-1 defeat against Harrogate Town). Until Craig Nelthorpe was sent off I thought only one team could win it but playing the last hour with 10 men was too big an obstacle.

“You have to take the ups and downs in this game and I am looking for a positive reaction at Hinckley. Jamie Harwood failed a pre-match fitness test on Monday but I’m pretty certain he’ll be involved this afternoon and the good thing is I’ve got no injuries or suspensions to worry about.”