NLP’S VERDICT

TWO goals in the opening 15 minutes and another on the stroke of half-time from a professional Heed ensured there was to be no Cup shock in this sell-out all-Gateshead derby. The early goals put the home side on the back foot and settled any nerves Gateshead may have felt of being one of the early victims of the FA Cup’s penchant for giant-killing! But a bumper crowd witnessed a spirited performance by the Northern League side to ensure they walked away with their heads held high despite the defeat.