Gaffer Clayton Donaldson is looking for a result to match the performance as they entertain mid-table Blyth Spartans this evening.

The Celts are coming off back to back defeats against two of the top three teams in the league – but are buoyed by good performance levels, despite being frustrated by some of the officiating in recent games.

Clayton said: “We have been performing well, even though in recent weeks we might not have picked up the results we wanted. I’ve been pleased by our performances against Tamworth and Chester but we didn’t get what we deserved in either of those games.

“We believe in what we are doing and the results will come, I’m convinced of that. Our performance levels haven’t dropped. We just need a bit of luck and some consistent refereeing!”

The gaffer is aware of what Blyth are capable of after the Celts suffered their heaviest defeat of the season – 4-0 – on a foggy September night in the North East. Blyth travel to The Citadel without a win in seven games and suffered a 2-0 defeat against rivals Spennymoor on Saturday.

“There are no easy games in this league,” Clayton said. “They will be looking for a reaction after their defeat on Saturday and it won’t be easy. They like to play good football, as we saw when we played them at their place.

“But we’re looking to bounce back ourselves and capitalise on our performances. I’m looking forward to the game and getting back out on the pitch!”

The gaffer. Photo: John McEvoy

Team news

Rudy Misambo faces is still suspended following his red card at Tamworth. Tom Allan will be available for the Celts ahead of a potential three-match ban for his sending off against Chester on Saturday, although the gaffer confirmed the club will be appealing the decision. Conor Branson will serve the second of his two-match ban.

Gaffer Clayton Donaldson will evaluate his squad ahead of the game. There are no new injury concerns following the Chester match.

How are Blyth Spartans faring?

Blyth currently sit just a point above The Celts in mid-table and are without a win in seven, after enjoying a good run of results over the Christmas/New year period. A couple of weeks ago they secured a respectable 0-0 draw against promotion-chasing Scunthorpe.

Last time we played Blyth at The Citadel

A frustrating April night at the Citadel for Farsley saw them fall to a 2-0 defeat in a huge relegation battle clash with Blyth.

The game came to life in the second half, with Blyth scoring two early second half goals from Jordan Hickey. Farsley came close on multiple occasions, with Tom Allan hitting the bar and Adam Clayton almost converting his lobbed attempt.

Read the full match report here.

Kick-off time

The match kicks off at The Citadel at 7.45pm.

Ticket news & supporters’ information

All the important supporter information for the clash – including admission prices and parking – can be found here.

Food & drink

  • The Nest Bar will be open, with all supporters welcome. It will be serving a range of alcoholic and soft drinks. Cash and card will be accepted.
  • We have a variety of hot and cold food available from our kitchen, with cash and card payments taken. Pies include pork, steak and and chicken & chorizo. Loaded fries include pulled pork and Korean crispy chicken. Hot drinks, tea and coffee will be available.

Social media

If you can’t make it to the Citadel tomorrow, you can follow our live Twitter feed for match commentary. Goal updates will feature on Instagram and Facebook.