By Mark Carruthers
Blyth Spartans manager Terry Mitchell was left “absolutely delighted” after his side battled to a 3-1 home win against North East rivals Spennymoor Town.
The former Consett boss experienced defeats against AFC Fylde and Southport in the opening two games of his Croft Park reign – but got off the mark on Tuesday with a fine performance against the Moors.
Spartans edged in front after an even opening quarter of an hour as JJ O'Donnell tapped home from close range after Moors keeper had parried a shot from Dan Maguire.
The lead remained in place until the 56th minute when Glen Taylor got the visitors back on level-terms as they rounded off a sustained period of pressure with a well deserved equaliser.
Parity was only in place for seven minutes as Spartans got themselves back in front with a header from Toby Lees and the impressive Connor Thomson sealed the points six minutes from time with a neat finish.
Mitchell hailed his players for a hardworking display in difficult conditions and challenged them to deliver the same level of performance as they look to move away from the bottom of the National League North.
“I am absolutely delighted with the lads,” he told The NLP.
“You're in football to win games, and what better way to get a first win than at home against a local rival.
“We asked the lads to stick to a game plan and a style of football no matter what happened and they did that for us.
“The pitch was making it more difficult but we looked to stay compact and press them.
“They pulled it off brilliantly today.
“We need to do that on a more regular basis to get to where we want to be.
“I am not looking down the table, there's a good set of lads here, they proved that earlier in the season.
“They've set a standard and that's what we have to meet more often.”
Mitchell also praised Spartans supporters for the backing his side received on a dismal day in Northumberland.
Persistent rain and grey skies provided a gloomy backdrop with a keenly contested derby – but that could not dampen the spirits of the Croft Park faithful as they celebrated only their fourth win in 18 league games this season.
“The fans are magnificent here, I said that on the day I got the job,” said the Spartans boss.
“They are unbelievable supporters and they are so passionate about their club.
“The support I have received in the first two home games and even the away game at Fylde is absolutely top class.
“Hopefully we can continue to give them lots to sing about and lots to get behind in the new year.”
Spartans will kick off their 2022 fixtures with another North East derby when they face in-form Gateshead on Sunday.
Mike Williamson's side will arrive at Croft Park looking to rack up an eighth consecutive league win and give a further boost to their bid for promotion into the National League.
Mitchell took a watching brief after taking in the Heed's recent home win against Brackley Town and admitted he was impressed with what he witnessed from his former club.
But the Spartans boss insisted he would still remain true to his attacking instincts as he searches for a second consecutive win.
“Gateshead are my old club, I know a lot of the lads, a bit like I have done with Spenny today.
“I saw them against Brackley and they're a good side.
“It should be a great game for the supporters and we will have a go, it's only way I believe in.
“We will try and play our style of football and have a go.”
