Monday 8th February 2010, by Heed Army

Afters Saturdays great win away to Mansfield Town, Ian Bogie faces the tough decision of who to play upfront.

Will Graeme Armstrong or  Daryl Clare (Pictured) partner Saturdays two goal hero Brian Wake against Barrow in the FA Trophy,  Clare missed Saturdays game against his old club having already played to the stags earlier in the season.

The central defensive partnership of Curtis and Jones looks set to continue with Saturdays win and clean sheet being the first since the 3-0 win over Greys Athletic back in November 2009.

Wayne Phillips or Phil Turnbull could also make a return to the starting line up on Tuesdays night with new arrival Andy Ferrel being cup tied having previously played in the Trophy for York City in the last round.

The winners on this match will face York City at home in the Quarter Finals of the FA Trophy, although to reach the Quarter Finals of a national competition would be a fantastic achievement, could it be seen as a unwelcome distraction for the Heed when currently sitting in the relegation zone?

New signing Wayne Buchanan will not be able to feature in this match, and will have to wait until Thursday night when a Gateshead XI take on a Hartlepool United XI at Billingham Town.

Sunday 7th February 2010, by Tynesider

Gateshead left Field Mill with a deserved 2-0 victory and should've had more. Right from the first whistle the men in white shirts were snapping around the Mansfield players heels winning the ball back and moving it with precision and purpose.

A packed Field Mill witnessed the Tynesiders run out 2-0 winners.

Debutant Andy Ferrell took the game to Mansfield within twenty seconds by leaving a mark on their midfield, in a manner reminiscent of Vinnie Jones clattering Steve McMahon for Wimbledon in the '88 Cup Final. 

Gateshead threatened first through a free-kick after a foul on Graeme Armstrong, the ball was delivered for the excellent Carl Jones to head just wide of the post. However, the travelling Heed Army didn't have long to wait, as Brian Wake picked up the ball and drove across the pitch unleashing a thunderbolt shot from outside the area that flew into the bottom left corner to send our fans nuts.

Mansfield came back into the game, with a few surging runs in and around our box, but James Curtis and Carl Jones were towers at the back winning most balls and pretty much everything in the air.

Peter Winn had a great chance to double Gateshead's advantage, a ball delivered to the back post saw him stretching but failing to put away the chance. Graeme Armstrong also made Marriott work in the Stag's goal with a smart save.

Half-time 0-1

Mansfield had their moments in the first-half, but Gateshead looked dangerous and whilst Dean Holdsworth's unknown brother may've given them a bollocking, it always felt like we'd get a goal in the second half.

We didn't have to wait long for that goal as Brian Wake picked up the ball on the left wing and drove infield towards the corner of the box, with two Mansfield players for company it looked like the chance had been crowded out, but quickly shifting the ball to his right and unleashing a thunderbolt low and hard across the ailing Marriott it was suddenly 2-0 leaving the majority of Field Mill shell shocked.

Mansfield then had a period of pressure on the Gateshead goal with a succession of corners and long throws which were all brilliantly dealt with by our back five under massive pressure.

Jon Shaw came on for the last 10 minutes, and at that point I'm sure had most Gateshead fans thinking uh-oh, old player coming back to haunt. Thankfully for once it didn't work out that way as Paul Farman made some crucial stops at the death, including a miraculous one-handed save to keep a clean sheet.

A fantastic and deserved win for the Tynesiders who were a breath of fresh air today. Andy Ferrell and Kris Gate formed a cracking partnership in the middle, snapping about the Mansfield players, winning the ball and playing it with confidence. Ferrell's leadership qualities were there to see, shouting his head off at anyone who made a mistake, ensuring they won't do it a second time (something we've lacked). Winn played brilliantly on the left, a constant threat and James 'Clive' Sinclair got his C5 up and down the right wing in a much improved performance. Every player had an excellent game, but a special mention must go to Wake, Curtis, Jones and Farman. These four were truely inspirational.

Gateshead: Farman; Williams, Curtis, Jones, Robinson; Sinclair (McDermott), Gate, Ferrell, Winn; Armstrong (Francis), Wake
Subs (Not Used): Provett, Baxter, Bains

Dean Holdsworth's less famous brother took pleasure in winding up the Gateshead fans earlier in the season as they won at ours. After the third goal, he spent 20 seconds repeatedly pumping his fist in celebration towards us. So today's win is sweet revenge on him, we hope you enjoyed it too Mr. _____ Holdsworth.

Friday 5th February 2010, by Tynesider

Gateshead have agreed a deal until the end of the season with former Northern Ireland under-21 International centre-half Wayne Buchanan.

The 6'1" 27-year-old started his career at Bolton Wanderers, appearing against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup. Moving back to Northern Ireland in 2003, "Bucky" signed for Irish Premier League side Lisburn Distillery making 226 appearances and captaining the whites.

Leaving Distillery after six years at the end of last season, Buchanan and his fiance moved to Austrailia where he trailed with Gold Coast United winning favourable reviews. However due to A-League teams only being allowed a limited number of visa players, no deal was forthcoming. After playing for Brisbane Olympic in the state league, injuries at Gold Coast saw him offered a 6-week deal at the end of November only to have it reneged on when Gold Coast signed former Scottish International Charlie Miller therefore taking up the final visa player slot. Choosing to move back to the UK, Buchanan had a trail at Scottish 1st Division side Dundee in January, before linking up with Gateshead.

Buchanan appeared for the Tynesiders in a friendly against Northern League Consett last night, the Tynesiders ran out 3-0 winners as new-signings Winn, Ferrell, Heckingbottom, Sinclair and Wake all started. Gateshead's goals came from Ferrell, McDermott and Sinclair.

Gateshead XI: Provett; Bains, Buchanan, Curtis, Heckingbottom; Turnbull, Ferrell, Francis, Winn; Clare, Wake

Buchanan will get another chance to impress next Thursday as another Gateshead XI play a Hartlepool United XI at Billingham Town.

Thursday 4th February 2010, by Tynesider

Gateshead travel to Field Mill on Saturday to take on Mansfield Town, who're running an excellent deal whereby fans of both teams can decide how much they want to pay on the turnstile to get in.

Field Mill, Mansfield - Visit the excellent Conference Ground Guide

The Tynesiders will look to build on the confidence gained from an excellent second half showing at Barrow mid-week. Brian Wake came off the bench with an impressive display and Carl Jones looked solid at the back after recall. Bogie will now have to choose which player from Jones, Bains and Shaw will partner Curtis at the back, with all fit for duty.

Up front we'll be without Daryl Clare due to the transfer deal ruling him ineligible, meaning Brian Wake will come in for his first start. Who his strike partner will be depends upon Graeme Armstrong overcoming a groin injury, which saw him come off at Barrow. Steven Richardson returned from the bench in that match, so will be fit to play if selected.

Peter Winn will make his return to a white shirt (Phillips hamstring) and the central partnership is likely to see Kris Gate partnered with new signing Mad Dog Andy Ferrell. Bogie's choice on the right side will depend whether he wants to go with two wingers, or a tucked in right midfielder from Sinclair, McDermott and Turnbull.

Mansfield, managed by the fist pumping less famous brother of Dean Holdsworth signed ex-Heed striker Jon Shaw during the transfer window. Shaw made one appearance for us and now one for the Stags before injury. He is scheduled to return to training this week, with it being unclear whether he'll be risked on Saturday or not.

Having lost a hard fought game at the International Stadium earlier in the season, Gateshead will be looking for revenge. Michael Mackay scored our goal that night, but has since departed having failed to come upto scratch. Mansfield are a physical team and if Gateshead are to get anything out of the match then we must not be drawn into a game of lump it.

Gateshead fans will be housed behind the goal in the North Stand. Note: If you're travelling to Field Mill via car, then don't park in the retail centre behind the North Stand, fans have been clamped and fined £50 for doing so. Mansfield fans advise parking South of the Ground on either Quarry Lane, or the B&Q just off Baum's Lane.

Wednesday 3rd February 2010, by Tynesider

Barrow 1 Gateshead 1 - FA Trophy 3rd Round - Tuesday 2nd February 2010.

Towering inferno James Curtis crashed home a header from close range to earn the Tynesiders a deserved replay next Tuesday.

Barrow came out the blocks quickest and Gateshead's recent lack of confidence was all too evident again. It didn't take long for Farmans woodwork to be tested with the keeper beaten by a cross shot from the right.

Gateshead started to gain some confidence and move the ball about neatly, carving out an opening for for Graeme Armstrong as he went through one-on-one only for Barrow keeper Tim Deasy to smother at his feet much to his pain afterwards. James Sinclair (Playing on the left) then brought another stop out of Deasy with from a header.

Barrow then came back into the game strongly causing Gateshead's fullbacks numerous problems. Both Baxter and Robinson had nights to forget, playing far too many hit and hope panic long-balls under pressure from Barrows tricky wingers.

Gateshead were happy to get into the break without conceeding after a tough opening 45 minutes.

Half-time 0-0

A much improved Gateshead emerged for the second half putting Deasy under increased pressure from set-plays that left him flapping in the wind. Armstrong worked Deasy before he was put under further pressure from the returning Carl Jones and Mark Robinson.

Barrow then had a spell which resulted in a debatable penalty decision after a challenge on the edge of the area. To add insult the Ref then pointed to the spot and Bond (the subject of transfer speculation linking him to a move to the Championship) dispatched the penalty low into the left corner sending Farman the wrong way.

Brian Wake had come on for Graeme Armstrong and was starting to make some tricky penetrating runs in and around the Barrow area, at one point forcing Deasy into a near post save as the Gateshead corner toll mounted. James Curtis grabbed the equaliser with a crashing header from one of these corners, stealing in unmarked to a delivery from the right. The draw was the least the Tynesiders deserved on that second half performance.

Leaving the ground one of their fans was overheard to say "I'm not going over to that s-hole next Tuesday", let's hope their team arrives with the same mindset giving us a path into the Quarter Finals.

Farman; Baxter, Curtis, Jones, Robinson; McDermott (Turnbull), Williams, Gate, Sinclair (Richardson); Armstrong (Wake), Clare
Subs (Not Used): Provett, Swailes

FRIENDLY: A Gateshead XI was destined for Spennymoor's Brewery Field tonight, but due to the frost the match was called off this morning. New signings Ferrell, Winn and Heckingbottom were due for a run out alongside trialist Wayne Buchanan. Unless another friendly can be arranged at short notice, Bogie maybe forced into making a decision on Buchanan without seeing him in a match situation.

Monday 1st February 2010, by Heed Army

The Heed Army say goodbye and a massive thank you to Jamie Harwood following his release from Gateshead FC.

Jamie made 97 appearances for the Tynesider’s scoring an impressive 30 goals from midfield, many coming from powerful headers. His last goal came against Tamworth in August 2009.

Then manager Tony Lee signed Harwood on loan initially from Worksop Town, after impressing in that loan he was signed permanently.

Jamie (Pictured) was instrumental in helping Ian Bogie’s side to two consecutive promotion from the UniBond Conference Premier.

Sadly this season Jamie was limited to the odd cameo appearances following the summer arrival of wide man Martin Brittain (Currently recovering from a broken leg) and more recently James Sinclair. He also spent one month on loan at Harrogate Town before Christmas.

Harwood has joined Gary Forrest's Shildon. The Northern League side prepare to take On St Ives in the FA Vase this Saturday.

"UPDATE"

We have a Message from Jamie Harwood:

My years at Gateshead have been the best in my football career and the support has been fantastic. The two promotions were great achievements and im proud i was part of it. On a final note just to wish all the lads and the Heed Army all the best and i will keep one eye out for the score on a Saturday.

All the best for the future

Jamie Harwood.

Another departure is that of Irish Striker Darren Forsyth (Pictured Below), Sadly for Darren it never really happened for him in a Gateshead shirt.

After an impressive pre season for the Heed, Forsyth was found wanting when it came to the start of the season, looking lost on his debut against Histon. From that point he was alway playing catch up behind Armstrong, Clare, Richardson, Wake and One in the pecking order.

Monday 1st February 2010

Midfielder Andy Ferrell has joined Gateshead from York city.

Peter Winn has rejoined the Tynesiders on-loan from Scunthorpe for the rest of the season.

Left-back Paul Heckingbottom has come in from Mansfield Town.

Three players have come in through the door, with three departing. Harwood and Forsyth are gone for good and pretend french winger Steven Baptiste has gone out on-loan to Ashington for a month.

A deal had been agreed for Rushden and Diamonds Horden born goalkeeper Dale Roberts. However, this signing was dependent on Rushden getting a replacement in, they were linked to Cambridge's Danny Potter. Unfortuantely the transfer chain has broken down and Paul Cavell's record transfer will still stand come 5pm.

Andy Ferrell comes into the club from York City on a one and a half year deal. The combative central midfielder (who can also play on the left) started out as a Junior at Newcastle United before being released. Moving onto league clubs Watford and Hereford United (where he was nicknamed Mad Dog), before a loan spell at Kidderminster turned into a permanent move. Spending last season in Kidderminster sharing a house with fellow Geordies Adam Bartlett and Martin Brittain all three were released following cost cutting measures. Gateshead tried to land the trio in pre-season but unfortuately only one of the three joined with Ferrell going to York. Appearing twice against us this season (including setting up the York winner at home and cart wheeling Gatey down there), Ferrell has spent most of this season playing out of position on the left side, or most recently cameo appearances from the bench or in the Trophy. His last appearance for the Minstermen came on Saturday as he scored the only goal of the game to send them through to the Quarter Finals.

Lincoln City were sniffing around Peter Winn, having shipped out a left sided player but Gateshead landed the winger who scored twice for us whilst on-loan, including a memorable goal against Brentford.

Paul Heckingbottom is the final signing to come in from Mansfield on-loan until the end of the season. The 32 year old left back signed for Mansfield Town at the start of the season from Bradford City. Having an in and out season at Mansfield, Dean Holdsworth's less famous brother has allowed him to join us on-loan. Starting his career at Sunderland he spent time at both Hartlepool and Darlington before moving onto Norwich, Bradford, Shefield Wednesday and home town club Barnsley.

Meanwhile Gateshead are believed to be currently trialing former under-23 Northern Ireland International defender Wayne Buchanan. Buchanan was until recently in Australia with Gold Coast Untied, upon returning had a trail with Scottish side Dundee. He Started out at Bolton Wanderers making one first team appearance away to Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup, then moving onto Lisburn Distillery and Australia.

Today's Movement:

IN - PETER WINN (On-loan for remainder of the season)

IN - ANDY FERRELL (1.5 year deal)

IN - PAUL HECKINBOTTOM (On-loan for remainder of the season)

OUT - DARREN FORSYTH

OUT - JAMIE HARWOOD (Gone to Shildon)

OUT - STEVEN BAPTIST (Ashington on-loan for 1 month)

Before Today:

IN - BRIAN WAKE (From Greenock Morton)

IN - DARYL CLARE (From Mansfield Town)

Sunday 31st January 2010, by Tynesider

Just over one day left of the transfer window (Closes 5pm, Monday) and Gateshead's long standing £9,000 record transfer outlay for striker Paul Cavell may finally be beaten.

Strong rumours coming through from Rushden and Diamonds have us linked with a £20,000 move for their 6' 3" twenty-three year old Hordern born goalkeeper Dale Roberts.

Roberts started his career at Nottingham Forest spending the 2006/07 campaign out on-loan at Conference North side Alfreton Town. The following campaign he became Forrest number 2, before being pushed down the pecking order. He spent the second half of the 07/08 campaign on-loan to Rushden and a large portion of the 08/09 season there too, before recall to Forest. He made the permanent move to Nene Park on January 2nd 2009, signing a contract through to 2011.

Having won two England C caps, Roberts was linked with a loan move to the International Stadium earlier in the season when Nathan Abbey was filling the number 1 shirt, however Diamond's manager Justin Edinburgh prefered to keep the stopper at the club with him eventually ousting Abbey, who's now moved onto Kettering.

Friday 29th January 2010, by Tynesider

UPDATE - The match has been postponed due to a frozen Holker Street pitch. It has been rescheduled for this coming Tuesday the 2nd February, kick-off 7:45pm. The knock on effect is that our home league match with Alty will now have to find a new date in an already congested fixture calendar.

Gateshead head to Barrow a second time in just over a month for an FA Trophy 3rd Round tie, with a place in the Quarter Finals the prize. Boxing day saw the Tynesiders ahead three times through McDermott and Clare (2), only to be pegged back as the match ended 3-3.

Holker Street on Boxing Day. Barrow was the only place in the country not under snow.

Boxing day brought a skillful battling performace from Gateshead, which will be needed again to have any chance of making it into the next round and more importantly getting back on track after recent results.

A good display at Barrow was followed by two displays of attacking football in the league, but no points. Chippenham were dispatched inbetween with an ugly Trophy win, and last Tuesday brought a confidence shattered outing as Gateshead ran out of ideas losing 0-2 at home to Kettering.

Kris Gate left the field against Luton with a badly gashed ankle but is fighting for a quick recall, Bogie may not choose to risk his midfield leader but after Tuesday's poor performance from the pairing of Williams and Turnbull he may have a tough decision to make. Brian Wake could get his first start up front as goals are needed, with Graeme Armstrong dropping to the bench. Carl Jones is pushing for a recall to re-establish last seasons rock solid partnership at the back alongside James Curtis. Steven Richardson may also come back into contention for a place on the bench after suffering a hamstring injury.

Since our last meeting, Barrow have recruited striker Nick Chadwick out of the farcical mess that is Chester City. Losing at Sunderland in the FA Cup, the Bluebirds had been chasing Jon Shaw along with us, but moved their sights to Chadwick after the player went to Mansfield. Defender Andy Bond could move onto pastures new with Preston North End and Leicester City said to be watching him closely, unfortunately a move is highly unlikely before we play at Holker Street.

Barrow are managed by duo Dave Bayliss and Darren Sheridan. Forty-two year old Sheridan appeared on the bench for their Lancashire Challenge Trophy match against Southport on Tuesday, whilst Bayliss made a spying trip to the International Stadium. A weakened Barrow side went out 4-2 after extra time as they did without Chadwick and an injured Jason Walker who's struggling for Saturday with nerve damage. Our nemisis Gregg Blundell did play and levelled the score at 2-2 in the 72nd minute, with keeper Stuart Tomlinson coming off the bench to play up front.

Making the Trophy Quarter Finals three times in the early 90s (1995-96 losing to Chorley the last), it'd be nice to be in the hat on Monday, hopefully after a morale boosting victory.

Thursday 28th January 2010, by Heed Army

Fan favourite Carl Jones has had a torrid season with injuries and found him self warming the bench in the last game against Kettering Town.

Jones signed in January 2007 from York City following a successful loan period, arriving with fellow former Hartlepool Utd player Phil Turnbull (also from York City).

(Carl Jones Vs AFC Telford 2008/09 season)

Jones is yet to make a first team appearance following picking up an Injury in Gateshead’s 2-1 defeat to York City back in August 2009. He had to leave the pitch with hamstring problem.

Since then Chris Swailes cemented his place in the centre of the Tynesider’s Defence along side James Curtis where the two big lads created a good understanding with each other.
Although Swailes and Curtis play well together, both will admit there are not the fasted round the pitch, (Swailes more with Age).

Will Carl Jones get his chance this weekend in the FA Trophy game at Holker Street against Barrow.
Jones struggle to get back in the starting line up has been given another body blow by the recent loan arrival from Darlington Rikki Bains.

A few fans believe Bains (a agile and fast defender) and Jones (an athlete defender) would make a good partnership should anything happen to Curtis.

Wednesday 27th January 2010, by Heed Army & Tynesider

Gateshead started the game with some slick and fancy attacking football and gave the home fans a sense that a fruitful game may lay ahead. However it turned into another night of despair as the toothless Tynesiders were easily dispatched by Kettering.

Graeme Armstrong pounced on the Kettering goalkeepers bad clearance in the opening exchanges, hitting an angled shot from the far side of the box only to miss the target by inches.

New winger James Sinclair showed he had pace early on as he belted down the right wing a number of times in the first 10 minutes alone. However his ring rustiness was clear to see, maybe he was a little over excited as well, as his wild uncontrolled shots were nearer the corner flag than the goal. Sinclair did show flashes of why he was deemed good enough to briefly appear in the premier League and UEFA Cup for Bolton Wanderers. If he sticks to the basics of running the touchline and crossing before trying to expand his game with cutting inside and tricks, then we'll have a good player on our hands.

Craig Baxter went from linking up well with new winger Sinclair down the right to looking like a dear in the headlights. In the first ten minutes Baxter looked to have a new lease of life storming forward and having a good understanding with Sinclair. However the second half brought more of a horror show with both himself and fellow fullback Mark Robinson repeatedly hitting the 1st man with most crosses.

Paul Farman came to the Tynesider's rescue with a point blank block on his goal line after centre-half Rikki Bains was rolled far too easy by Kettering's Jean-Paul Marna. Unfortunately the warning wasn't heeded.

Baxter was given time to take a throw in, having the choice of a safe ball to a unmarked Rikki Bains (who didn’t have a man within 10 yards) or aim at Graeme Armstrong who had four blue Kettering shirts round him. Well, in true Gateshead style why make it safe and easy, it went to the Kettering shirts and they broke away to score. Kettering Town's on-loan striker Kwesi Appiah slotted the ball home past Paul Farman on 15 minutes.

As the first half went on Gateshead's composure was gradually becoming less and less with the defence resorting to blindly lumping the ball forward. Kettering slowed the game down and used the ball to dictate how they wanted the game to go, leaving Gateshead players chasing shadows in midfield.

That all too familiar feeling arrived on forty minutes as Darren Wrack doubled the Heed Army’s pain, leaving Ian Bogie with a head ache at half time.

Half-time: 0-2

The second half was a story of Kettering sitting deep and frustrating every Gateshead attack as the Tynesiders never really looked like scoring.

Sinclair and Phillips (Hamstring?) came off after 55 minutes as Gateshead sacrificed their wingers and went 4-3-3, with new striker Brian Wake on. This brought both full-backs into play to deliver the ammunition, but unfortunately cross after cross hit the first defender.

Gateshead's best chances fell to the strike force as Clare had great chance only to head over, Armstrong brought another good stop out of Nathan Abbey and new signing Brian Wake nearly got through only to be thwarted.

Against Forest Green and Luton we played well, last night confidence was shot as soon as Kettering got hold of the game. Once they went two up they sat back and absorbed whatever we could throw at them, and unfortunately that was nothing of worth. Bogie has less than a week to enter the cheat codes into the video game, as we're starting to look like a team in a hole.

GATESHEAD: Farman, Baxter, Curtis, Bains, Robinson, Sinclair (Francis 55), Turnbull, Williams, Phillips (Wake 55), Clare, Armstrong. Subs (not used): Provett, Jones, McDermott.

Booked: Francis, Curtis.

Tuesday 26th January 2010, by Heed Army

Ian Bogie has dipped into the transfer market for the second time in this January Transfer window, by Singing Greenock Morton Striker Brian Wake on a free transfer, and signing Former Bolton Wanders player James Sinclair.

Stockton born striker Wake has played for Scarborough, Carlisle United and Hamilton, and comes in to add to the Gateshead forward line which has been stuttering more that Gareth Gates in front of goal.

Wakes goal record stands at 50 goals from 188 games for five clubs.

James Sinclair joins on a non-contract basis, no doubt he will be wanting to impress with potential ful time contracts up for grabs in the summer as the Gateshead squad goes full time.

Tynesider born Sinclair made two first team appearances for the Wanderers. Since his release from Bolton, James had trials with MLS side Chicago Fire at the end of last season.

Ian Bogie is well aware of Sinclair's abilities having delt with him as a youngster. Bogie told the official site 

"Sinclair is a player I have dealt with in the past when he was a teenager, he is a real flying machine and hopefully he'll be available for the rest of the season."

"He can play in a number of positions, including right midfield, and is a player who will increase our options going forward."

Both are expected to be in the squad for tonight's match with Kettering, subject to completed paperwork.

Other transfer news: Gateshead have also made offers for three other players and are tracking a defender with experience of English, Irish and Aussie football (Not believed to be Aussie Rules, but you never know). One player speculated about is midfielder Andy Ferrell who is expected to start for York tonight in their Trophy replay at home to Newport County.

Monday 25th January 2010, by Tynesider

Gateshead face Kettering Town at The International Stadium on Tuesday night (7:45pm) with Ian Bogie set to make changes. Some enforced through injuries, some because of blunders and one possibly a new signing.

The offical site match preview highlights the possibility that goalkeeper Paul Farman maybe dropped for Jim Provett. Farman made a horrendous gaffe in Saturday's match against Luton, but to bring back Jim Provett would be harsh on the youngster (and most Heed fans sanity after some of Provetts displays before being dropped). Farman has been steady at the back since coming into the side, and is a promising young keeper. However, we're at the stage of season where decisions do need to be made on form not sentiment, but in our opinion a straight choice between the two (assuming a keeper isn't one of the signing the manager is trying to make) this one is as they say a no brainer.

Gateshead will be without Kris Gate who has a badly cut ankle. The Tynesider's captain had to leave on a stretcher against Luton, with many fans fearing ligament damage. After having stitches put in he'll likely also miss the Barrow Trophy game on Saturday. Steven Richardson is also set to have a spell on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury picked up on Saturday. Darren Williams is expected to come back in, and Bogie hopes to have a new signing in the squad for tomorrow night having agreed terms with two players (The Chronicle reporting that we're looking at signing upto four players). Andy Ferrell is heavily rumoured to be one of them, so it will be interesting to see if he turns out for us or York at home to Newport in the Trophy.

Kettering have had a rollercoaster of a season so far. Reaching the heights of challenging for the league and going out in extra-time at Leeds in the FA Cup, to losing their Manager (Mark Cooper), having their new Assistant Manager sacked immediately after that cup defeat and maybe more crushing their Chairman pulling his finacial support after failing to land a deal for a new stadium in the town.

Now managed by their goalkeeper Lee Harper who thwarted us down at their place (thwarted maybe a tad generous as in truth we were hammered, 4-0), the Poppies are trying to change their style of play to a more attack minded approach, recently adopting a 4-3-3 formation. Influencial defender Exodus Geohagon followed Mark Cooper to Peterborough and enigmatic striker Moses Ashikodi unfortunately went to fellow strugglers Ebbsfleet United. Harper has brought in goalkeeper Nathan Abbey from Rushden (played against us earlier in the season), strikers Anthony Robinson and Kweshi Appiah in on-loan from Peterborough.

Kettering lost on Saturday at leaders Stevenage by 2-0, putting up a courageous display but ultimately being unable to threaten goalkeeper Chris Day's net. Kettering will likely be without influencial midfielder Andre Boucard tomorrow, he was hospitalised after suffered a horrific facial injury at Stevenage.

Saturday 23rd January 2010, by Heed Army

Gateshead gave a good account of themselves against Luton Town on Saturday afternoon, but the rub of the green was definitely with Luton.

In the opening minute Graeme Armstrong rattled the crossbar with a strike from 20 yards, with the loose ball bouncing away from the goal mouth only for a Luton defender to clear the ball. Within 40 seconds Daryl Clare had a chance from 6 yards, after being put through by Phil Turnbull his stretching volley went tamely into Kevin Pilkington's arms.

Captain Kris Gate had to leave the field of play on a stretcher during the first half, after a clash of feet in the Gateshead 18 yard box. The incident was without malice or intent, the two players accidentally collided and Gate didn’t manage to get back up. Thankfully the injury is a gashed ankle, not ligament damage as feared, and hopefully wont keep him out too long.

Gateshead continued to make the better of the chances in the first half, with Alex Francis replacing the injured Kris Gate.

Luton took the lead in horrific circumstances if your name is Paul Farman. He made a complete hash of a cross, allowing it to slip under him and creep over the goal line, sending the 400 to 500 Luton Fans wild.

Graeme Armstrong headed straight at Pilkington from a McDermott cross, either side and it would've been a goal.

Half-time 0-1

The second half started in the same vein as the first, but with many of the attacks coming from left hand side. Wayne Phillips started to get back to the form he had last season with step overs a plenty and whipping dangerous balls into the box.

Stephen Richardson replaced Neale McDermott down the right hand wing, with 20 minutes to go, and Gateshead still had there chance with the best of them falling to Wayne Phillips.

Phillips got in down the left side of the box after good work once again by Graeme Armstrong, however Phillips playing more like his old self couldn't find a finish.

Gateshead force another corner that ultimately comes to nothing

Alex Francis' low shot from the right edge of the penalty area had the ball in the net after a deflection from the offside Daryl Clare, ruled out by the linesman. Baxter's ball into the box from the left was then begging to be headed home, but a stretching Clare took it off the head of Armstrong only for it to loop into pilkington's arms.

Further chances fell to Turnbull and Francis, with a great opportunity for Wayne Phillips who did well to turn in the box but fired wide of the upright when he should've at least hit the target.

Luton offered little and were there for the taking. Gateshead played well again in the league but come up pointless, it's becoming a worryingly familiar story.

Farman; Baxter, Curtis, Bains, Robinson; McDermott (Richardson) (Williams), Turnbull, Gate (Francis), Phillips; Clare, Armstrong.

Subs (Not used): Provett, Jones.

Thursday 21st January 2010, by Tynesider

Gateshead take on former League Cup winners Luton Town at The International Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 3pm. Luton's fall from grace has been dramatic, from being a Championship club selling Curtis Davis in 2005 for £3 million to falling out of the Football League after a 30 point penalty last season.

Managed by former Newcastle United Academy Director Richard Money, Luton made the four and a half hour trip north (not eight hours as some journalists would like to spin it) this morning, taking advantage of Newcastle United's training facilities this afternoon (Sunderland lent Crawley theirs before Christmas, just need Boro to complete the set).

Money, has started to put his mark on the Luton squad in the last couple of months. England C striker Matthew Barnes-Homer (Scored against us earlier in the season) has joined from Kiddderminster for around £75k, defender Alan White has gone out on-loan to Darlington, whilst Kevin Gallen and Kevin Nicholls are transfer listed and miss Saturday through mystery knocks.

Goalkeeper Mark Tyler the hero down at theirs has travelled but will likely miss out through injury, and Barnet Boy's one time favourite striker 'Liam Hatch Hatch Hatch' has also travelled as he looks to step up his comeback.

Gateshead meanwhile have Rikki Bains coming in for his home debut alongside James Curtis, with either Darren Williams or Phil Turnbull likely to miss out. Manager Ian Bogie has decisions to make about who fills the left-back slot with both Cave and Robinson failing to impress in the last few games, a surprise selection can't be ruled out.

On the transfer front Bogie still hopes to have a couple in before the Luton match, with York midfielder Andy Ferrell strongly linked to a switch back home to Tyneside. Affectionately known as Mad Dog by Hereford fans for his robust performances, Ferrell has been sidelined to cameo appearances from the bench in recent months. Playing the early part of the season out of position on the left wing, Ferrell set up Gash's goal against us at the stadium and came on to clatter our midfield down at York in November. Last night he played the full 90 minutes for York at Newport County in the FA Trophy, picking up a knock according to York Manager Martin Foyle.

Gateshead made a failed bid for him in the summer when he was a Kidderminster player alongside Martin Brittain. Likely to find himself outside the starting XI at the weekend and with Cambridge left-winger Courtney Pitt rumoured to be joining York, the lure of home and a starting role in central midfield maybe too strong to resist. But, Martin Foyle has recently said he's happy to have a big squad with games coming thick and fast.

Tuesday 19th January 2010, by Tynesider

Graeme Armstrong brought relief by hitting the only goal of the game on the hour mark as the Tynesiders made it through to the last 16 of the FA Trophy. Gateshead will travel to Barrow on Saturday the 30th of January in the 3rd Round.

With a lot of our fans recently suffering from the disease known as plot rot, a Tuesday night Trophy tie against unfashionable opposition saw us back to a Unibond sized crowd (lowest of the season). Chippenham started the brighter of the two teams, closing Gateshead down and hassling us into mistakes which saw them come close on a couple of occassions.

After weathering this early period, Gateshead looked the better side without really threatening much. Daryl Clare nearly got his head to a good cross from the right, and good work from Graeme Armstrong saw the recalled Turnbull force the bluebirds keeper into a save.

After poor first half, Phil Cave didn't emerge for the second with Mark Robinson coming on to fill the problematic left-back slot. Gateshead came out the better side, and there only ever looked to be one winner, with Armstrong getting that goal on 59 minutes after good work by Turnbull and McDermott.

Clare, Gate and Richardson went on to test the Chippenam keeper, but one goal was enough to see us through. As they say job done, move on.

Gateshead: Farman; Baxter, Curtis, Williams, Cave (Robinson); McDermott (Richardson), Gate (Francis), Turnbull, Phillips; Armstrong, Clare
Subs unused: Provett, Baptist

Window movement

On Monday Ian Bogie told the local press he wanted two in before the Luton game at the weekend, so we await incoming movement.

Both Carl Jones and Jamie Harwood are expected to go out on-loan, with Alfreton Town said to be sniffing around Harwood. Jones suitors are unknown, but with Blythe's recent bad form and injuries at the back coupled with the fact Tait and Platten took a long look at Jones in the reserve match with Darlington, there maybe a strong chance he heads there to get some match sharpness.

Tuesday 19th January 2010, by Tynesider

Gateshead have a third crack tonight (7:45pm) at staging our second round FA Trophy tie against Chippenham Town. Having fallen victim to a snowy International Stadium pitch twice already, the Wiltshire based club set off in the early hours this morning to make tonights tie.

After Saturday's disappointing defeat at Forest Green Rovers, Bogie's men must bounce back and restore some confidence before two massive home games against Luton Town (Sat 23rd Jan) and Kettering Town (Tues 26th Jan). Bogie will have to reshuffle the strating XI with Rikki Bains trophy tied (played for Blythe in this years competition), Carl Jones and Chris Swailes cattle trucked. This will likely mean Darren Williams moving to the back and Phil Turnbull returning in the centre of midfield. It's possible Graeme Armstrong may be brought in up top to partner Daryl Clare.

Chippenham Town include Ian Bogies nephew, defender Greg Tindle in their ranks. The Bluebirds have been out of action due to the weather for over a month (bizarrely keeping in shape by doing kickboxing), and with the Towns proximity to Nailsworth (less than an hour) it's highly likely their management were there on Saturday to cast an eye over our defeat.

Reaching the final of the FA Tinpot Flower Vase in 1999/2000, they've subsequently taken the step up the pyramid getting to the second round of the Trophy once before in 03/04.

The winners of tonight's encounter will be away to either Maidenhead United or Barrow in the 3rd round on Saturday 30th January.

Sunday 17th January 2010

Pretty football, pretty pointless (again)! All too often this season Gateshead have left an away ground empty handed with the opposition fans remarking on the nice football we play, and how we wont go down playing like that. Unfortunately it's now got to the point where it's starting to drive some of the fans mad.

Isaiah Rankin hit the only goal of the game on 69 minutes as Gateshead lost a crucial relegation battle at the New Lawn only to slip back into the dreaded zone.

More FGR Videos...

Gateshead: Farman, Baxter, Bains, Curtis, Cave, McDermott (Francis 79), Gate, Phillips, Williams (Turnbull 59), Richardson (Armstrong 70), Clare.
Subs Not Used: Provett, Robinson.

Booked: Williams.

Saturday 16th January 2010, by Heed Army

What a difference a year makes, the Conference Premier was only but a whisper on Heed fans lips, with Gateshead riding high in the Conference North table this time last year.

Now the Conference premier brings the big name clubs to the international stadium, but also big time worries as the Tynesider's slipped back into the relegation zone!

Only two weeks are left in the transfer window, fingernails are being bitten down to the bone with only one transfer and a loan having come in. it was expected to be a busy transfer window for the Heed.

Daryl Clare's transfer from Mansfield Town is a major signing for the club after an impressive loan stint, while Rikki Bains loan move from Darlington looks a solid signing.

"One swallow doesn't make a summer" and heed fans know and believe more signings are paramount in our fight for survival. After today's result, the club need to be ruthless in their approach, which may well mean breaking the wage structure but surely that's a risk worth taken rather than the alternative cost of relegation?

Let's hope we see some quality movement soon in the market place!

Here's a man who knows how to survive, maybe he can teach us a trick

Friday 15th January 2010, by Tynesider

Update: Rikki Bains has officially signed for Gateshead on a 6 month loan deal from Darlington with a view to a permanent deal. Bains will go straight into the squad for tomorrows match at Forest Green, and may even start.

Earlier this morning, we reported that Bains was rumoured to be joining on a 6 month loan:

Rumours emerging from Darlington have Centre Half Rikki Bains joining us on a 6-month loan deal. With Darlington signing Luton's Alan White on-loan, this would in theory free up Bains.

Bains was at Blythe Spartans on-loan before Christmas, where it's said he played well. Going back to Darlington to fight for his place may be about to come to a premature end with White rejoining and Foster possibly sorting out his contract dispute.

Bains was mentioned as a target of Bogies in the Chronicle a couple of weeks back. Having started the season playing out of position at right-back with Darlington, he was moved out on loan by Steve Staunton. Bains comes with prior Conference experience as standout player at Tamworth in 2006/07. Since then, the 21 year old has moved onto Kings Lynn (loan), Corby Town, Macclesfield and Darlington.

The acquisition of Bains would take our Centre Half stock back up to 4 after the release of Stephane Pelonde.

Forest Green Rovers - Away (Update)

Saturday's match at Forest Green is set to go ahead after a mammoth effort to clear the pitch of snow. The pitch is now said to be completely clear, revealing a firm surface. Tomorrow the FGR staff and helpers will concentrate on clearing the snow from the surrounding paths.

Gateshead set off south at midday to stay overnight. With no further pitch inspection expected (at the time of writing) and the weather said to be warmer (with rain) over the weekend, then the only danger could possibly be waterlogging (fingers crossed to avoid that).

Carl Jones could be set to make his first appearance in a Heed shirt since August 25th (York City at Home) with Chris Swailes struggling through injury. Jones after recovering from injury has played in a Reserve team friendly against Darlington and a behind closed doors practice match against a Newcastle United XI. Daryl Clare is set to play for the first time as a permanent signing, where he will be partnered by either Graeme Armstrong or Steven Richardson.