The job got done nothing more nothing less, that is all that can really be said about this match.
A low tempo affair, with Gateshead not really risking much but not full attacking either.
The first half only really produced a few half chances, with Graeme Armstrong having the best of them.
Paul Thompson got a rare league start as Ian Bogie continued to rest key players in his 16 man squad. Wayne Phillips and Steve Salvin both return to the starting line up after missing the 4-0 win away to Buxton in midweek.
Although the game was not action packed in the first half the Tynesiders still managed to have more than their fare share of possession.
The second was much the same as first with little sparking into life. Although it was worrying to see James Curtis subbed with what appeared to be a dead leg, as he left the pitch with a slight limp.
Captain Steve Bowey (pictured after he scored) grabbed the winning goal on 67 minutes to give the travelling Heed Army something to cheer about on a cold April afternoon.
Paul Brayson came on as sub and had two great chances to double Gateshead lead, but the Ashton Keeper came out on top.
Line up and ratings:
Musselwhite 7
Had nothing to do
Gate 6
Looks a lot better in midfield
Cave 6
Went through the motions
Curtis 7
Hopefully he will be ok for the play offs
Salvin 7
Reliable as ever
Phillips 7
Ran his heart out
Harwood 7
Made problems for Ashton
Turnbull 7
In a good run of form
Bowey 8
Great goal, showed his grit
Heed Army Blog man of the Match
Thompson 6
The old work horse showed why he shouldn’t go to the glue yard just yet.
Armstrong 6
Was hustling
Subs:
Brayson 6
Need to get his head down and kick in the box, goals will fly in.
Southern 6
Spread the ball well.
Talbot 6
Got on with the job.
