Gateshead continue play-off charge with victory over Leamington
Gateshead 4-2 Leamington, Gateshead International Stadium, Vanarama National League North
Gateshead came from behind to secure an emphatic 4-2 victory over Leamington to maintain their play-off ambitions.
Goals from Mike Williamson, Alex Nicholson, Jordan Preston and Jake Cooper cancelled out Jack Edwards’ opener before Connor Taylor grabbed a late consolation for the visitors.
After a bright start Gateshead fell behind after Edwards capitalised on some lax defending to give the visitors the lead.
The lead didn’t last long as player-manager Williamson grabbed his first goal for the club heading home Greg Olley’s free-kick.
Gateshead then took a deserved lead with Nicholson creeping in at the back post to convert after Scott Barrow’s cross had evaded the Leamington backline.
In first half added time Preston gave the hosts the two goal cushion their pressure warranted.
Picking up the ball just outside the Leamington box the midfielder cut inside and arrowed a right footed strike into the top corner.
The second half brought further Gateshead dominance and they turned that possession into a fourth goal midway through the second period when Preston found Cooper unmarked on the edge of the Leamington box.
The on-loan Rotherham defender then showed great poise to curl the ball into the far corner and effectively secure the three points for the home side.
With four minutes to go Leamington pulled one back with Taylor producing a fine finish after Gateshead had failed to clear the ball.
The win leaves Gateshead in seventh place in the National League North and unbeaten in seven as they look to continue their climb up the table in recent weeks.
