Hucknall 2, Gateshead 2

Apr 27 2009 The Journal

GATESHEAD conceded two goals in the last seven minutes against relegated Hucknall.

But a point was sufficient to earn them the runners-up position in Blue Square North.

Manager Ian Bogie aimed to finish the league programme on a high and for much of the game it looked as if the Tynesiders would end comfortable winners.

It took an own goal, though, to break the deadlock on 34 minutes. A corner by Phil Turnbull was turned into his own net by Chris Timmens.

Gateshead continued to enjoy more of the possession and it was no surprise when they doubled their lead three minutes into the second period.

Wayne Phillips moved down the left and his cross to the back post left Gateshead’s man-of-the-match Jamie Harwood with a simple tap-in.

But in the 83rd minute, Cashel Walters turned on the edge of the box and his drive eluded goalkeeper Paul Musselwhite’s outstretched hands.

Worse was to follow for Gateshead a minute later. Anton Bonwick looked offside but was waved on and for the second time in 60 seconds, Musselwhite was beaten.

Gateshead visit Southport on Wednesday night in the first leg of the semi-final play-offs before hosting the former Football League side at the International Stadium next Sunday.

HUCKNALL: Lindley, Spriggs, Baxter, Meikle, Timmens, Smedley, Wilson, Kepple (Wiggans-Thomas), Frost, Bacon (Bonwick), Walters.

GATESHEAD: Musselwhite, Baxter, Cave (Smith), Dinning, Curtis, Hocking, Harwood, P Turnbull (S Turnbull), Armstrong (Francis), Stamp, Phillips.

Referee: Mr Amphlett. Attendance: 347.