Gateshead FC vs Morecambe FC – Match preview

In a huge six-pointer at the Gateshead International Stadium, The Heed take on Morecambe in the National League as both teams sit in the relegation zone.  

Last time out 

Both sides have met twice this season, in two domestic competitions in the league and the FA trophy. Despite a September were Gateshead dominated the Shrimps 5-2 in the league at the Mazuma Stadium, Morecambe overcame the Heed in December, coming out 3-0 winners away from home.

Both sides will be looking to come out with a victory which may define their seasons in terms of their survival hopes of staying in the division.  

Recent form 

The Heed will be looking for a third victory in a row following a Harry Chapman delightful double saw them defeat relegation rivals Truro City 2-1 after making the long trek to Cornwall.  

Along with this, Rob Elliott’s men defeated Halifax Town 2-1 away from home to help end the struggle of their 16-game losing streak in all competitions.  

On the other hand, Morecambe will look to capitalise on their emphatic 4-0 triumph at home against Eastleigh with a stunning half-way line effort from striker Cole Stockton to seal the win.  

Following the appointment of manager Jim Bentley who has made his return to the Shrimps, he will be looking to make his mark on the club and have the backing of the fans with a consistent run of form and performances under the players belts.  

Key players 

Gateshead will be looking at Chapman to be the difference maker yet again after his brilliance last time out as previously mentioned before. The Heed’s lack of goals this season has been detrimental to their season. He has provided six goals and four assists thus far this season.  

This follows with the recent departure of talisman Kain Adom, who has recently joined EFL League 1 side Burton Albion for an undisclosed fee. The 25-year-old had been vital in front of net having scored 10 goals in the National League.  

Jim Bentley’s men will be hoping that midfielder Jack Nolan can unlock his creative spark being the club’s top goal scorer this season with eight goals and coming in with four assists too.  

Additionally, they will be anticipating forward Ben Tollitt to hopefully produce the solution in front of goal with him scoring four and assisting four for the Shrimps this campaign.