Williamson demands positive reaction to play-off pain

MIKE Williamson was in defiant mood after Gateshead’s hopes of making an immediate return to non-league’s top tier were ended by Boston United.

The former Newcastle United defender has endured an eventful first season as the Heed’s player manager and was in an understandably disappointed mood at full-time.

But speaking in the aftermath of his side’s National League North play-off semi-final against the Pilgrims, Williamson stressed that he is already plotting how he can improve on his side’s performances throughout a challenging campaign.

He said: “There is no option, it’s about making sure that we evaluate everything, from minute one of the season to now.

“Where can we be better? Where can we increase our chances of winning games and improving the squad and staff?

“We will put those in place and we will go again. It’s a fantastic job to have, I am very proud to be manager of this football club and this just increases the intensity and desire to get back to work and right the wrongs we have suffered.”

Williamson reflected on the season as a whole as his side squad challenged at the top end of a strong National League North division.

There have been a number of positives throughout the campaign that came to a close with their defeat at York Street on Saturday.

The Heed player-manager called on his players to learn from the experience of their play-off defeat.

“Over the season, fans have seen our football and our personnel evolve and change. We have created a really good atmosphere and an environment around the place,” he said.

“Unfortunately that means nothing today, but it’s now about the reaction.

“We have an honest group of lads here and we are ready to go again next season.”