Olley makes big impact on his debut

GATESHEAD signed attacking midfielder Greg Olley straight after Saturday’s opening pre-season win over Newcastle Benfield.

The game was heading for a draw when former Newcastle and Hull City man Olley struck two beauties in the last 11 minutes.

The 22-year-old, who made two League Cup appearances for Hull during his three years at the KCOM stadium, is the Heed’s 12th signing.

More are expected this week, including a striker and central defender, as manager Steve Watson continues his squad rebuild.

Olley (pictured below) had also provided the third-minute opener for Connor Bell, a young forward on trial having played for Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

Watson was pleased to get the first warm-up game out of the way before the Heed host Morpeth on Wednesday and then travel to Guiseley.

He said: “It was a tough game in hot conditions.

“It was hard to zip the ball around and Benfield gave us a good game.

“Olley scored a hat-trick in 20 minutes in midweek in a trialists’ game and he took his goals very well today, two great strikes.

“Steve Harper recommended him.

“He is another local lad who fits the bill, will be a goal threat from midfield and is someone who can keep the ball well.”

Olley took Lewis Maloney’s pass to turn brilliantly and find the far corner to restore Gateshead’s lead after Paul Brayson had levelled for Benfield.

Olley then cut in from the left to curl another stunner into the far corner to make it 3-1, Gateshead having lost captain Fraser Kerr through injury early in the second half.

Watson added: “Kerr’s injury was disappointing and he is likely to join Scott Barrow on the sidelines against Morpeth.”