Heed’s hard work goes unrewarded
GATESHEAD’S fifth game in 11 days saw them return from Hampshire with nothing to show for their efforts.
While they battled commendably at The Rec Fraser Kerr’s unfortunate own goal in first-half stoppage time proved to be the decider.
The 1-0 defeat at promotionchasing Aldershot saw the Heed remain 13th in the Vanarama National League, while their opponents moved up to third place in the table.
Gary Waddock’s side completed the double over Gateshead having won by the same score on Tyneside in September.
Gateshead’s road trip continues on Friday when they embark on an almost 700-mile round trip to Dover.
The Heed then finish with two home games against play-off chasing Ebbsfleet next
Tuesday and mid-table colleagues Leyton Orient the following Saturday.
In-form goalkeeper James Montgomery kept Aldershot at bay with a string of fine saves in the first-half before The Shots grabbed the winner.
Montgomery and midfield man Paddy McLaughlin have played every minute of all five games in a week and a half.
Gateshead manager Steve Watson commended the effort of his side, but rued a lack of control that played into Aldershot’s hands.
He said: “I really feel for the lads tonight. It just didn’t happen for us with the ball, but they once again gave me everything.
“They dug in and defended heroically given the amount of possession Aldershot had and the only goal they’ve scored has come from a corner.
“It skidded off the surface, hit Fraser Kerr in the face and ended up going over the line. It was one of those nights.
“Nothing seemed to drop for us in the box. Nothing went for us from the referee and second balls dropped to an Aldershot player in space.
“It’s a pity because we were up after Saturday’s performance and we wanted to put on another for the fans who travelled once again.
“Unfortunately we came up short in lots of areas with the ball, but no one in the country will have done what we’ve done in the last 11 days.
“We now have to go to Dover, roll our sleeves up and rotate again.
“Hopefully we’ll get something and then put on two good home performances to finish the season off.”