A pulsating 2-2 draw at the J. Davidson Stadium saw Altrincham fight back from a half-time deficit to share the spoils with Gateshead, a result that leaves both sides relatively unchanged in the National League table. The match was a captivating spectacle of end-to-end football, featuring two penalties, incisive passing, and a late Altrincham resurgence that ultimately secured a point for the home side.
Altrincham took the lead in the 20th minute when Tom Crawford confidently converted a penalty, giving the Robins an early advantage. Gateshead’s response, however, was swift and decisive. Just 12 minutes later, in the 32nd minute, Jacob Butterfield levelled the scores with a well-taken finish, expertly assisted by Luke Hannant. The visitors then capitalised on their growing momentum, snatching the lead just before half-time. In the closing stages of the first half, Owen Oseni latched onto a clever pass from Callum Whelan and slotted the ball home to make it 2-1, leaving Altrincham with a mountain to climb in the second half.
The second period witnessed a series of substitutions as both managers sought to influence the outcome. Altrincham, chasing the game, introduced fresh attacking options in an attempt to revitalise their forward line. Gateshead, meanwhile, opted for a more cautious approach, making substitutions designed to reinforce their midfield and protect their slender lead. Despite sustained pressure from Altrincham, Gateshead’s defence remained resolute for much of the second half. However, just as a Gateshead victory seemed inevitable, Alex Newby dramatically levelled the scores in the 86th minute, igniting jubilant celebrations amongst the home supporters. The late goal ensured a frantic finale, with both teams pushing for a winner, but neither could find the decisive breakthrough, and the match ultimately ended in a hard-fought 2-2 draw.
The draw leaves Gateshead in 4th place on 27 points, while Altrincham remain in 14th position on 19 points. This stalemate marks the fourth encounter between the two sides in recent seasons, with each team having recorded two victories prior to this closely contested affair.