Williamson: Time to put FA Cup agony behind us
MIKE Williamson believes Chester is the perfect game for his side after Sunday’s FA Cup heartbreak against Oldham.
Gateshead were beaten 2-1 by the Latics in a stirring first-round tie they could easily have won.
The Heed put on a top-drawer performance in front of a bumper crowd at the International Stadium.
They were punished for two of the few mistakes they made after outplaying the League Two side for long spells.
With this weekend being an international break, a seventh four-figure crowd should be recorded.
Third-placed Chester will bring a sizeable following with Gateshead two points outside the play-offs.
The Heed have games in hand on all the sides above them.
Five of the nine sides above them – including Chester – have played three games more than Gateshead, who will have to make those up at some point.
Tomorrow’s match is one which will focus minds as the Tynesiders look to move on from their cup exploits.
Player-manager Williamson believes his side will be switched on for two important league games in four days.
Former Newcastle United defender Williamson said: “I was extremely proud of the players for their performance on Sunday.
“We were magnificent, so it was very frustrating to lose the game as we were the better side and should have gone through.
“However, if we can show the same desire, belief and quality every week it will take us far.
“We could not have done any more against Oldham.
“It was a huge effort from the lads but now we must move on.
“We have to take the emotion away from it and be fully focused on Chester and Altrincham.”
The Deva Stadium outfit has lost only twice in the league, one less than Gateshead. Chester have only lost one of their last nine and are romped to a 3-0 win in their last league game against seventh-placed Alfteton Town.
Eight points separate the two sides, Chester defeated on their last five trips to Tyneside.
Williamson added: “Hopefully those who don’t usually come to Gateshead will have been impressed on Sunday and we will have another good turnout.”