At the Prestige Group Stadium, Hartlepool United secured a 3-2 victory against Gateshead in a match characterised by attacking football and fluctuating fortunes. The five goals scored reflected the offensive intent of both teams, resulting in a compelling match for the spectators.
Hartlepool took the lead in the 25th minute, with Luke Charman putting his name on the scoresheet. Just before half-time, Reyes Cleary increased Hartlepool’s advantage in the 43rd minute, giving the home side a 2-0 lead going into the break.
Gateshead returned to the pitch with renewed determination, and Jovan Malcolm quickly reduced the arrears in the 48th minute. However, Hartlepool responded in the 72nd minute, as Emmanuel Dieseruvwe restored their two-goal lead.
As the match approached its conclusion, Gateshead continued to press. Jamie Bramwell, a substitute brought on in the 76th minute, scored in the 90th minute, assisted by Regan Booty, setting up a tense final few minutes. Despite this late goal, Gateshead were unable to find an equaliser, and Hartlepool held on for the win.
The match also saw several players cautioned. Luke Charman received a yellow card in the 66th minute for a foul, and Jamie Bramwell was booked in the 81st minute. Late in the game, Jack Hunter and Frank Nouble were also shown yellow cards, underscoring the competitive nature of the encounter.
Hartlepool manager Anthony Limbrick made an early substitution, replacing Billy Sass-Davies with Jack Hunter in the 39th minute. Gateshead’s Carl Magnay responded with a triple substitution in the 74th minute, introducing Charlie Colkett and Brayden Johnson, in addition to the earlier introduction of Frank Nouble.
This victory places Hartlepool United in 11th position with 59 points. Gateshead remain in 7th position with 66 points, still occupying a playoff spot despite the defeat.