Williamson hopes Covid won’t derail Heed season
GATESHEAD have the small matter of a North East derby to negotiate as they bid enter the new year with National League North’s only 100% home record.
The only other side to win at the International Stadium this season is League One outfit Charlton Athletic, who beat the Heed in the FA Cup.
Even then Mike Williamson’s men had the chances to at least earn a replay against the Addicks.
That match drew a four-figure crowd and another bumper showing is expected on Boxing Day.
Gateshead entertain local rivals Blyth Spartans in a game that pitches third-top against secondbottom.
The Heed have won all seven league games on home soil, racking up 17 goals while conceding just four.
Conversely Blyth have been in freefall, losing 12 of their last 13 games and have picked up just one point on the road.
Former Gateshead assistant manager Terry Mitchell is just two games into his tenure in the Croft Park hotseat.
Mitchell took in Gateshead’s 2-0 win over leaders Brackley Town last weekend, and will look to pull off a shock result and dent the Heed’s promotion push.
Gateshead counterpart Williamson, meanwhile, is hoping the three festive derbies are not affected by the weather or Covid issues.
The former Newcastle defender said: “It’s a busy period but we definitely want the games to go ahead and hope we are able to keep going.
“We have got some tough fixtures and a lot of minutes to play so we are going to have to rely on the squad.
“There will be a good turn-out on Boxing Day and the crowds have been increasing week on week.
“That’s what we want and the backing the fans have given us this season has been fantastic.”
Adam Campbell sits out the Blyth game due to suspension but captain Greg Olley returns from his ban.