Stephen Thompson netted a first half brace as Stockton Town advanced in the FA Trophy with victory at Blyth Spartans.
Thompson scored both from outside the box in typically trademark fashion. His second was particularly eye-catching as it was rifled into the top corner.
Thompson returned to the Starting XI after missing the midweek game at Chester in the only change.
Michael Fowler, once again given the nod up front, had an early opportunity when he pounced on a mistake but he could only fire wide.
Fowler was in again when he headed a Lewis King cross against the crossbar from close range.
The Anchors went close to the opener again when a cross to the back post was headed on goal by Adam Nicholson but Spartans goalkeeper Michael Hogan was there to deny him.
Hogan again made an excellent save when Fowler fired it towards the top corner after he was played in,
Eventually Stockton broke the deadlock when Thompson drove a left-footed effort in from range to the delight of the Anchors fans behind the goal.
Close to halftime, Thompson was at it again when he found space before unleashing an unstoppable shot past Hogan.
Half Time: Blyth Spartans 0-2 Stockton Town
Into the second half, Stockton remained on the front foot as Owen Gallacher stung the hands of Hogan with an effort.
Thompson looked to turn provider when he crossed for Fowler who headed over the bar.
As the game approached full time, Blyth had their best chance of the game when substitute Charlie Aitken spun before he smashed the crossbar with his effort.
In the end, the Anchors held out for a comfortable win and advanced to the FA Trophy first round for the first time.
Full Time: Blyth Spartans 0-2 Stockton Town
Blyth Spartans: Hogan, Norvell, Holvey (Curry 45’), Oliver, Donaldson, Halford, Gordon, Simpson (Reed 45’), Savage (Aitken 59’), Gomes-Carrington (Cornet 59’), Deverdics
Unused subs: Bond
Stockton Town: Harker, King, Baggs, Painter (Purewal 77’), Nicholson, Coulthard, Thompson (Roberts 58’), Butterworth (Beddow 69’), Fowler, Leech (Henry 58’), Gallacher (Sweet 69’)
Goals: 0-1, 25 min, Thompson; 0-2, 45 min, Thompson
Attendance: 385
Words: James Cartwright
Photo: Harry Cook
