The Lamb Ground was the scene of a spirited contest as Tamworth triumphed 3-1 over Gateshead in the English National League. In a match that ebbed and flowed, it was the home side who ultimately secured the victory, with Stefan Mols netting a brace and Oliver Lynch adding a decisive third.
Tamworth started the match with clear intent, aiming to build upon their recent positive performances. However, Gateshead began to apply early pressure, probing the Tamworth defence. The initial exchanges were cautious, with neither team managing to create significant scoring opportunities. An early tactical shift occurred in the 18th minute when Tamworth’s Ben Milnes was replaced by Alfie Bates.
The breakthrough arrived in the 39th minute. A well-executed move saw Luke Fairlamb provide the assist for Stefan Mols, who found the back of the net to give Tamworth a deserved lead at half-time. Earlier in the half, Gateshead’s Kain Adom had received a caution for a foul in the 29th minute.
The second half saw Gateshead pushing for an equaliser. Their efforts were rewarded in the 58th minute when Kain Adom, despite his earlier booking, scored to level the match at 1-1. Tiernan Brooks was credited with the assist. The momentum appeared to swing in favour of Gateshead, but Tamworth responded promptly.
Just four minutes later, in the 62nd minute, Tamworth re-established their lead. Teo Kurtaran set up Oliver Lynch, who scored to make it 2-1. This goal seemed to galvanise the home side. Gateshead attempted to alter the course of the game with a double substitution in the 65th minute, introducing Fenton John and Curtis Edwards. However, Tamworth were now in control.
The decisive goal came in the 80th minute. Oliver Lynch turned provider, assisting Stefan Mols for his second goal of the match, extending Tamworth’s advantage to 3-1 and effectively sealing the victory. Gateshead made a further change in the 79th minute, bringing on Frank Nouble, but it proved to be too late. Tamworth also made several substitutions in the closing stages, with Jordan Ponticelli, Ben Acquaye, and Manny Duku entering the field as they looked to manage the remainder of the game. Curtis Edwards of Gateshead was cautioned in the 67th minute, followed by Aidan Elliott-Wheeler in the 78th minute. Tamworth’s Jordan Ponticelli received a late yellow card in the 94th minute.
This victory sees Tamworth move up to 11th place in the English National League standings, accumulating 34 points from 26 games, a rise from their previous 13th position. Gateshead, meanwhile, remain at the foot of the division, occupying 24th place with 19 points from 25 matches, a situation that will be a significant concern for the club. This result provides Tamworth with three valuable points as they aim to solidify their mid-table position.
