A look ahead to the weekend trek to Gateshead…
By Matty Paddock - 04/03/2022
Posted 4 years ago
HARRIERS are heading into a genuine battle of promotion contenders at Gateshead on Saturday, admits an excited boss Russ Penn.
The free-scoring Heed have swept away many a team in National League North this season and currently lead the way at the top of the pile.
By their own standards there was a slip up last weekend as Mike Williamson’s men drew 1-1 at AFC Telford United.
Harriers of course were beaten at Farsely Celtic, meaning both sides will go into the clash wanting the perfect response.
Looking ahead to the crunch encounter, Penn – a former Gateshead player – was full of praise for the job the management team are doing there.
He told our YouTube channel: “I was at Gateshead and they attract some really good loans because of the big clubs around them.
“Yes, they’re in their shadow and probably will be forever because you’ve got Newcastle up the road, Sunderland and Middlesbrough.
“But Mike and Ian have gone in there in the last two years and done what we’ve done here, really.
“They’ve stamped their authority on the football club, cleaned it up a little bit and they’re a club on the up that’s pushing for promotion.”
Asked about the general feeling going into a vital clash at the top end of the table at such an important time of the season, Penn admitted he’s relishing every minute.
“It’s great,” he added. “For 15 games to go and with the season we’ve had, to be put into a six pointer with two months to go is great.
“There is going to be a lot of pressure on both teams on Saturday because we all want success and we all want to win the game.
“But that’s what football is about. It is not pre-season time or mid-table clashes, these are title-challenging games now and it’s fantastic to be a part of at the moment.”
Harriers travel north without the suspended Joe Foulkes after he was sent off in last weekend’s defeat at The Citadel.
Penn will otherwise hope for a fully fit squad to choose from at the Gateshead International Stadium, with the troops able to enjoy a ‘free’ week to rest knocks and niggles.
Harriers fans are reminded that advance purchase of tickets is strongly recommended.
Kick-off on Saturday is at 3:00pm.
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