One of the most fascinating ties of the 1st round of the FA Cup today is the local derby between Blyth Spartans and Gateshead. Anchored at the bottom of the Blue Square North, Blyth Spartans will relish the chance to beat their rivals, Gateshead, who play just 18 miles away. Gateshead are riding high in the Blue Square Conference just one place outside the play off places and hoping to regain the league status they lost in 1960.

It’s not often that visitors to Blyth Spartans have such a short trip. On average, their fixtures in the Blue Square North are a round trip of 337 miles and include a long haul to Gloucester City which is a round trip of 553 miles.

Their season started well with a 2-0 friendly win over the mighty Partick Thistle, but league results have been disappointing with only two wins. On Monday, they lost 1-0 away to league leaders, Hyde. However, they are just two wins from the chance to play at the Sports Direct Arena. Let’s hope they can make it a memorable day.

Below: The official Blyth Spartans Choir warming up for the big game.