Rare Heed home tie as they hit halfway
GATESHEAD return to the International Stadium tomorrow looking to consolidate seventh place in the National League.
The Heed take on bottom half club Bromley – their nemesis in the FA Trophy last season.
The Ravens knocked Gateshead out of the Trophy at the semi-final stage, only to lose the final at Wembley against Brackley Town.
Gateshead hit the Wembley trail next weekend with a trip to Conference title favourites Salford City.
It is the hardest draw the Tynesiders could have been handed when the first round draw took place at Wembley.
Manager Steve Watson said: “We will be looking to have a real go in the Trophy again but our focus at the moment is Bromley.
“We have not played a lot at home recently and it is important we take all three points at the International Stadium.”
Tomorrow’s clash is only Gateshead’s second of three on home soil in a run of 12 games.
It is a tough schedule for Watson’s men but they will guarantee reaching the halfway stage in a play-off position if they beat Bromley.
A late goal conceded from a throwin saw the Heed go down 1-0 at
Bromley in August – their first defeat of the campaign after taking 10 points from 12. Watson added: “It was disappointing to lose in the manner we did in Kent after we had made a great start. “Saturday’s return game is our 23rd of the season in the league so we will be at the halfway stage.
“We have had tough games on the road lately, at the likes of Wrexham and Leyton Orient, so it is good to be back at home.” Gateshead will make at least one change, with playmaker Greg Olley banned for one game following his sending-off at Orient. Watson added: “The dismissal was harsh, the second booking only seconds from the end of injury time. “Common sense should have prevailed but we have options and it will be an opportunity for someone to come in and impress.” Bromley head north 18th in the table with only two wins from their 11 away games.
■ Tickets for both festive derbies against Hartlepool United on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day will be on sale in the club shop tomorrow.
Common sense should have prevailed, but we’ve got options Steve Watson