Rivalry is put aside in pursuit of glory

May 2 2008 by jl newsdesk1, The Journal

GATESHEAD stars James Curtis and Kris Gate go into the game of their lives when they take on Buxton in the Unibond League play-off final tomorrow – but the pair face another showcase game just three days later.

The Tynesiders reached the final with a 4-0 win over Eastwood Town at the International Stadium on Tuesday, leaving only the clash with Buxton – also at Gateshead’s home stadium (3pm kick-off) – standing in their way of Conference North football next season.

Gateshead will then round off their campaign next Tuesday night when they take on Premier League side Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, in the final of the historic Newton Moor Durham Challenge Cup.

It is a strange prospect for team-mates James Curtis, a Sunderland fan, and Newcastle supporter Kris Gate, who will have to put their rivalry to one side for 90 minutes as they bid to lift the famous trophy.

“I can’t wait, being a Sunderland fan, it’s one of my dreams to play at the Stadium of Light,” said 26-year-old centre-back Curtis, from Tunstall in Sunderland.

“I played at Roker Park when I was younger and the biggest ground I’ve played at more recently is probably Telford, which holds about 8,000, but nothing on this scale, so it should be great.

Central midfielder Gate, 23, from Walkergate in Newcastle, was on United’s books until he was released last summer to join Gateshead.

“It doesn’t get any bigger for a Geordie,” he said. “We’ve had a great season at Gateshead.

“If there’s a chance for me to get back into professional football I’d grab it, so an opportunity to play in a game like this at the Stadium of Light is great.

“It could also be a great stepping stone for Gateshead, to win this final at the stadium, it would be massive for the club.”

TUESDAY’s final at the Stadium of Light kicks off at 7pm. Tickets are priced £5 adults and £2 concessions, and are available from the SAFC ticket office and Durham County FA.

Tickets for Sunderland supporters are on sale at the Stadium of Light ticket office or on (0845) 6711973.

Tickets for Gateshead fans are available from Gateshead International Stadium, daily from 9am until 7pm, or by calling 0191 433 5700.

Tickets are also available from Durham FA via info@durhamfa.com