Report - Gateshead 0-1 Wealdstone

Ten man Wealdstone dug deep to see off a determined Gateshead side at the Gateshead International Stadium.

The game started off in scrappy fashion, with both Mason Barrett and Owen Bailey being shown yellow cards early on. Tarryn Allarakhia should’ve done better with an attempt on goal, as his tame shot was easy for the keeper.

Barrett was replaced by David Sesay after just 20 minutes following an injury, as Gateshead seized the initiative. Jack Cook and Deji Elerewe had to make last-ditch tackles as the Heed ramped up the pressure.

But on the stroke of half-time, the Stones broke the deadlock, and it was a familiar face in Rhys Browne.

A sloppy pass from Greg Olley allowed the forward to drive at a back peddling defence, and he managed to find himself in on goal. An assured dinked finish over Dan Langley sent the 135 Stones fans into raptures.

Gateshead continued to pressurise the Stones in the second half, with Paul Blackett hitting the woodwork twice in two minutes. His first effort, a looping header which struck the post, was followed up by an angled drive from a superb through ball, which was agonisingly close to finding the net.

Just moments later and the Stones were down to ten. Elerewe was sent off after pulling Blackett down as he looked to race through for a one-on-one against Sam Howes. Gateshead smelt blood, and after several blocked attempts, Howes was forced into two smart stops.

Adam Campbell’s deflected effort was tipped over, before Robbie Tinkler’s volley was pounced upon. Howes also had to deal with a painful challenge from Blackett, which the Heed forward was booked for.

Gateshead continued to knock on the door, with substitute Will Harris coming close twice, but the Stones held on to continue their impressive form. It’s now three wins on the bounce for Stuart Maynard’s side, and they sit on top of the league.

WEALDSTONE: Howes, Barrett (Sesay 20), Cook (c), Elerewe, Habergham, Charles, Ferguson, Kretzschmar (Napa 90), Allarakhia (Kinsella 45), Hutchinson, Browne.

Subs not used: Dyer, Mongoy.

Attendance: 1,104 (including 135 Wealdstone fans)

Report by Will Bewsey