National League U19 | Altrincham 1-2 Blyth Spartans

Words Remi Raymond | Pictures Luke Reynolds

EGERTON Football Club acted as host to the clash between Altrincham and Blyth, with Alty looking to seek revenge for their defeat to the Spartans earlier in the campaign.

The Young Robins began the game well, focusing heavily on their intensity and pressing from the front. They were tidy on the ball, creating plenty of chances for their forwards.

Alfie Curwen came close with a shot from outside the box, and Harrison Howells had a snap-shot from just inside the area denied by the opposition goalkeeper.
Despite Altrincham’s early dominance, however, the visitors were the team who opened the scoring.

An Alty clearance fell to the feet of a Blyth attacker, and the forward slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

It was a big blow for Altrincham to take just before half-time, but they returned for the second half eager to overturn the deficit. Once again, they were on top of their opponents, but this time the young Robins were able to make their superiority count.

Altrincham’s high press forced a mistake out of the Blyth goalkeeper, as he gifted Jack Chandler with a pass into his path. Chandler side-footed the ball into the empty net and the Robins drew level.

Alty’s dominance persisted late into the second half, but after some sloppy play from the hosts, Blyth were able to pounce and restore their lead. Spartans’ striker finished his chance with a tidy finish and Blyth led 2-1.

Desperate for an equaliser, Alty persevered with their attacking football but were unable to find the all-important goal. The visitors’ defence held firm and they took all three points back to the north east.

Squad

Dane Byron, William Knowles, Kaiden Powell, Alfie Curwen, Lucas Edwards, Ben Taylor, Jack Chandler, Remi Raymond, Sekouba Camara, Kian Gonzalez, Afernee Denise, Harrison Howells, Charley Jarrald, Ajani Oshidin, Max Whittle.