NATIONAL LGE

FORMER Newcastle star Steve Watson has appealed for Magpie fans to get behind Gateshead’s bid to reach Wembley this weekend.

The Heed face a pivotal FA Trophy semi-final second leg against Bromley at the International Stadium on Saturday.

Watson’s men trail 3-2 from the first leg with all to play for in the deciding leg on the banks of the Tyne.

A big crowd is anticipated with admission on the gate on the day and turnstiles at both ends of the Tyne and Wear stand open.

Watson, who played more than 250 games for home town club Newcastle, is keen for United fans to swell the gate.

Neither Newcastle or Sunderland have a game on Saturday as Gateshead bid to reach Wembley for the second time in four years.

Watson told the Chronicle: “Saturday is a massive day for the club with a huge prize and we need a big crowd to be our 12th man.

“We are firmly in the tie and it would be great if Newcastle fans could come along and get behind another local club.

“There has been a lot of interest in the game and I just hope that interest is reflected in the size of the gate.”

Watson added: “We need to win to get to Wembley.

“If we win by two goals or more it will be job done - but if it needs extra time to win it then so be it.

“The buzz a big crowd in the Tyne and Wear Stand gives transmits to the players and ramps up the atmosphere.

“It is great neither Newcastle or Sunderland are playing.

“That puts us centre stage for what will be a big occasion.”

The winners of the two-legged tie will play Brackley Town or Wealdstone at Wembley in the Trophy final on Sunday, May 20.