CHESTER 1 GATESHEAD 2
midfield, was inches wide from Griffith’s inside pass on the stroke of halftime.
Chester tweaked their system at the break, successfully affecting the Heed’s rhythm by denying them space.
The game became much more of a battle for Gateshead, particularly after Grand restored parity.
The Heed switched off at a short free kick and the overlapping Glendon’s cross was headed into the far corner by Grand.
Male then saved one-handed high at his near post from Danny Elliott’s angled drive.
Preston’s header from Greg Olley’s half cleared corner had to be tipped over by Gray as Gateshead responded. The game remained in the balance – but it was the Heed who pro
vided a sting in the tail.
Griffiths’ measured long ball down the right touchline was eagerly chased down by Ged Garner and Langstaff.
Langstaff gambled, correctly, on a possible back-pass, which Grand duly provided.
The striker had only been on the field for eight minutes when he pounced to shoot under the advancing Gray.
Male then had to make a crucial injury time save from Elliott, before Langstaff went close to making it three.