Summer turbulence looms over O’s clash
STEVE Watson admits Gateshead are facing an ‘uncertain summer’ but wants his side to end the season in style against Leyton Orient.
With the Tynesiders up for sale and the club’s future unclear, tomorrow’s season closer gives the club one final chance to send supporters away happy.
Heed boss Watson said it has been a tough month for players and staff alike but insisted they remain focused on the challenge presented by Orient.
Gateshead have never lost to the Londoners, who were relegated from the Football League last year after off-field turmoil hampered the on-field action, and will look to extend that record tomorrow.
Victory for the Heed would see them end the season 13th, leapfrogging their opponents.
There will be one takeover at the International Stadium this weekend as Gateshead College students will run things behind the scenes tomorrow.
But with major questions surrounding the club’s future, Watson wants to finish the season on a high before looking at off-field matters.
He said: “It has been a difficult month on and off the pitch and we’ve now got the chance to end the campaign on a high.
“It’s one we want to take as we want to send the fans home with a spring in their step with a solid display and victory.
“We just want to put on a performance with pace a good attacking play on what is one of the best pitches in the league.
“It’s an uncertain summer for everyone; the fans, the players and the staff, myself included, so to sign off with a victory is really important.”
Gateshead have already scored eight goals in the three meetings between the two clubs this season.
Danny Johnson bagged doubles in both FA Trophy meetings, while Jordan Burrow netted a brace in the league at Brisbane Road.
Gateshead, currently in 14th, are three points behind Orient but have a better goal difference.
But the Heed are also only one point clear of 19th ahead of tomorrow’s 12.30pm start.
Watson should have the benefit of a full squad to select from as he looks to build on two draws and a win over the O’s already this season.
The 44-year-old saw his side crumble to a 5-2 home defeat against Ebbsfleet on Tuesday and admitted it has been a tough end to the campaign.
“It’s been disappointing and results haven’t been good enough in what has been a tough end to the season,” added Watson.
“We have the chance to finish in mid-table and we have had good games and results against Leyton Orient this season.
“Hopefully that will be the case again on Saturday. The lads’ pride was dented after losing 5-2 against Ebbsfleet and they’re keen to bounce back.”