Wat I would give for my Heed to get to Wembley
MAYBE the Premier League has gone into temporary hibernation and therefore Newcastle’s determined push for the safety of higher ground is on pause - but today still holds a special fascination for me.
Because two close to my heart go into meaningful battle right here on Tyneside.
My old mate Steve Watson and Gateshead, where I am a life president, square up against Bromley at the International Stadium, with Wembley and an FA Trophy final the tantalising prize on offer.
The semi is finely balanced with Bromley 3-2 ahead from the first leg after Gateshead were twice in the lead.
Watto is a top lad who had a terrific career at Newcastle, though that sadly did not include a Wembley final victory, while Gateshead are a club I owned for 11 years and whose results I still follow with the closest of scrutinies.
Watson, in his first season as boss of Gateshead, is making an attempt for an immediate return to Wembley in the Trophy final. He was there last season as coach of Macclesfield who lost on their big day to York City.
May Watto enjoy better luck all round this time.
Just across the water from the International Stadium there is another big occasion at St James’ Park with Newcastle Falcons entertaining Northampton on an afternoon of rugby which will draw a crowd of around 30,000.
The Falcons are enjoying a fabulous season under the shrewd guidance of Dean Richards and thoroughly deserve their day in the sun before their record crowd.
No PL football is a bit of a downer but plenty to compensate I feel.