PONTELAND United’s recent run of good form came to an end as they lost 3-0 at home to Blyth Town.

Town went into the fixture full of confidence, with a top three place in the Northern Alliance Premier League within their sights.

Despite the scoreline, Ponteland gave the North Northumberland outfit a good game, and forced their goalkeeper into an inspired performance.

The opening goal came mid-way through the first half following a nice ball played in behind the back line that was finished well by a Blyth forward.

United couldn’t convert despite some purposeful attacking play, and went into half time a goal down. Blyth started the second half the stronger as their centre forward scored early to double their lead and give Ponteland a mountain to climb.

Much like the first half, United continued to get bodies forward and found themselves in promising positions in the final third but couldn’t get on the scoresheet.

Blyth were well organised and frustrated much of the home side’s offensive efforts, but Ponteland missed some big chances that should have brought them back into the game. Some tame efforts and a couple of great saves by the Blyth keeper made a Ponteland comeback look increasingly unlikely.

Blyth always looked dangerous on the counter, and with around 20 minutes left to play, the away side consolidated their lead after a simple ball into the box from the right hand side which led to the third and final goal.

Despite the creative capacity of Zac Bewley, among others for United, the home side were without an out-and-out striker during a frustrating afternoon.

The absence of the hat-trick heroes against Whitburn & Cleadon two weeks ago was evident. Forward Gary Cook missed out with a groin injury, while Louis Calvert was also a miss.

Also missing was Chris Hibbitt, currently suspended, who would normally bring a bit of defensive stability to the side, sitting just in front of the back four.

With Saturday’s game against league leaders, Newcastle Blue Star FC, postponed, Ponteland will be hoping to return to winning ways next week when they face Blyth Spartans Reserves.