THERE was an all too obvious mixture of elation and relief that enveloped Gateshead's International Stadium just under two weeks ago.
The shrill of referee Aaron Bannister's whistle signalled the end of a hard-fought win over newly crowned champions Chesterfield that sealed the Tynesiders' place in the National League play-offs.
For only the second time in their history, after a campaign pockmarked by the departure of manager Mike Williamson to MK Dons, a never-ending battle with injuries and the sale of key players like Stephen Wearne, the Heed had secured a place in the end-of-season knockouts and were a step closer to a first return to the Football League since 1960.
Defender Kenton Richardson punched the cold Tyneside air in delight, even interim manager Rob Elliot was persuaded to join in and why not? This was a victory against all odds, a tick of the box for smart recruitment, shrewd investment and, most of all, for an unbreakable bond between players and staff.
Denne historien er fra April 28, 2024-utgaven av The Non-League Football Paper.
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Denne historien er fra April 28, 2024-utgaven av The Non-League Football Paper.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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BRENNAN STINGS 'MOANY' BEES!
FRUSTRATED Dean Brennan has lashed out at the \"miserable, moany\" Barnet boo boys and urged them to get behind the team in their bid for promotion.
ACE REED WAITED TO MAKE A MARK
WHEN Mark Reed sensed his manager turn around to look his way on Tuesday night, he knew what was coming next.
CHURCH HAILS TEENAGE KICKS
DEBUTANT Dan Shaw got his teenage kicks with the rocket that fired Alvechurch to the top of the table.
LEES SO PROUD OF HIS SHAKERS
SUPER Shakers made it 14 games unbeaten this season after easing to victory against struggling NPL outfit Blyth Spartans.
SEVEN-UP A STONES
RONAN Silva turned in a four-star display as Salisbury highlighted the three-division difference in quality against their Wessex Premier opponents.
HORGAN'S RELIEF AT TOWN SIX APPEAL
CHIPPENHAM Town heeded manager Gary Horgan's prematch warning about a potential shock and despatched their Jewson Western League hosts.
BRAD'S LEVELLER RESCUES THE IRON
IN A terrific FA Cup second qualifying round tie, Step 4 Newcastle Town held National League North leaders Scunthorpe at Buckmaster Avenue.
WHING IS SURE IT'S MOOR OF THE SAME
A BRACE from Conor Wilkinson brought Solihull Moors back-to-back National League victories.
MOR'S U'S ARE BACK ON TRACK
SUTTON United got back to winning ways with a wel come victory at Southend United.
DUO GET THEIR JUST REWARDS
ENGLAND legend Stuart Pearce has made surprise appearances at two Trident League clubs to hail a pair of award-winning volunteers who earned national recognition for their inspirational exploits.
