Columnists

Tony Incenzo: We’re keeping up with the Jones’s

One of the standout fixtures and results for me this season came in a historic Northern Premier League East Division basement battle on New Year’s Day where the scoreline read: Blyth Spartans 1 Blyth Town 2.

by
Tony Incenzo
15 February 2026

Blyth Town’s Ben Fell, in blue, son of manager Gavin, challenges Blyth Spartans’ Jack Foalle in the historic derby

One of the standout fixtures and results for me this season came in a historic Northern Premier League East Division basement battle on New Year’s Day, where the scoreline read: Blyth Spartans 1 Blyth Town 2.

Let me put it into context. The Northumberland seaside town of Blyth is forever internationally steeped in footballing folklore.
That’s entirely due to Blyth Spartans’ incredible FA Cup exploits in 1977/78 whilst members of the Northern League.
They heroically fought through eight rounds (starting in the first round qualifying), winning 3-2 at Stoke City along the way.
Near neighbours
Th...

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