Unibond League

Mar 29 2008 by Malcolm Pratt, The Journal

BEFORE the start of the Easter programme Gateshead manager Ian Bogie set his side a target of nine points from three games.

Six were gathered from the first two fixtures and Bogie is looking for a hat-trick of wins when mid-table Matlock Town visit the International Stadium for this afternoon’s UniBond League Premier Division game.

He said: “I think it’s a massive ask for us to now finish in the top two but I’ll be devastated if we don’t make the play-offs. The lads responded magnificently last weekend and if they play as well today I’m confident we’ll take another step.”

A massive boost for Bogie is the news that he could have a full-strength squad to choose from. His only doubt is Stephen Salvin who has been struggling with a hamstring injury but he is expected to be declared fit.

Meanwhile, Paul Baker, who this week was confirmed as Newcastle Blue Star manager following the departure of the former Newcastle United and Northern Ireland star Tommy Cassidy, is confident he can resurrect the club’s fortunes in the Arngrove Northern League next season.

The ex-Newcastle Benfield Bay Plastics boss has wide experience of the North East scene, particularly the ANL and is relishing his new challenge. “I’m over the moon at being involved again although I’m sorry for Tommy who I understand wants to continue his career higher up the pyramid than the ANL,” said Baker.

“I want to be a big part of Blue Star and there’s a lot of work to do between now and August since I know some players will see their future in the UBL. In the four games I was temporarily in charge of the team, they were superb and I thought we played some good stuff even though we managed just one win.”

Today, Blue Star entertain Mossley at Kingston Park and Baker is hopeful that leading scorer Lee Novak, the former Gretna striker and Ben Pringle will be able to play.

Doubts surround the availability of Jamie McGlen and Ben Webster as Baker hopes to build on Easter Monday’s splendid winning performance at Radcliffe Borough. Baker is looking to appoint an assistant and anyone interested in the role should contact him on 07983 604067 for an initial discussion.