In a compelling contest at the Gateshead International Stadium, Brackley Town emerged victorious with a determined 2-1 win against Gateshead in the English National League. The match, marked by its offensive approach and shifts in control, ultimately saw the visitors secure the crucial three points.
Brackley Town opened the scoring in the 17th minute. A well-constructed passage of play led to Morgan Roberts assisting Zak Brown, who found the net to give the visitors a narrow lead. The advantage was extended just eleven minutes later. Michael Nottingham played a key role, setting up Kian Harratt, who scored to establish a 2-0 advantage for Brackley Town at the half time interval.
Trailing by two goals, Gateshead sought to alter the course of the second half. Manager Rob Elliot made a tactical substitution in the 58th minute, introducing Mark Beck in place of Dominic Telford, aiming to strengthen their attacking capabilities. This alteration, combined with a spirited display from the home team, began to influence the game’s momentum.
Gateshead’s sustained pressure paid off in the 79th minute. Substitute Mark Beck, who had entered the field earlier in the half, successfully reduced the deficit for the hosts, providing them with a glimmer of hope with just over ten minutes left to play. The assist for Beck’s goal was provided by another substitute, Harry Chapman, who had been brought on in the 71st minute, demonstrating the effectiveness of the changes implemented by the Gateshead management.
Despite a late push from Gateshead, which also saw Sam Bowen receive a yellow card in the 72nd minute for a foul, Brackley Town maintained their composure to seal an important victory. This win propels Brackley Town up the league standings to 14th position, accumulating 36 points from 30 games. Gateshead, conversely, remain in a challenging situation at the foot of the table, occupying 24th place with 19 points from 29 matches, underscoring their persistent difficulties this season.
