Blyth Spartans v Gateshead | Tuesday, 22 July 2025 - 19:00 | Friendly

Blyth Spartans fell to a 2-0 defeat against a youthful Gateshead at Croft Park on Tuesday night.

Gateshead manager Alun Armstrong put out a youthful side in the final scheduled home match of the Spartans' pre-season campaign.

It was the Heed who had the first opportunity of the game with Harry Gettins scooping an effort over the crossbar.

Blyth grew into the game and went close to taking the lead when Harvey Rudd clipped a ball into the box which was met by the head of Dan Maw who's headed effort struck the crossbar from inside the area.

Unfortunately, the home side were unable to seize the initiative and went behind seconds later as Gateshead's Callum Bone finished well on the counter.

Colin Myers' side fought hard in a scrappy first half with Jack Wilson having a shot blocked inside the area, while Benji Shodeinde's pace caused problems for the National League side.

Charlie Wood headed over the bar from a corner, while Matty Cassap made an excellent save from point-blank range to keep the score down before trialist, number 11, forced the Gateshead goalkeeper into a good save.

Half time: Blyth Spartans 0-1 Gateshead FC

With goalkeeper Lewis Baker the only substitute to enter the fray at the break, Blyth looked to push forward and went close when Dean Briggs sent a dinked effort narrowly wide of the post.

Shodeinde also went close but saw his effort blocked at the near post.

An even second half came to life when Baker denied Ben Hewitson with a flying stop, however Gateshead did double their lead through Adore after 75 minutes.

The Heed pushed forward in the final 10 minutes and missed a couple of good opportunities to extend their lead further.

While it was a night that ended in defeat, there were positives to take into the forthcoming campaign

Full time: Blyth Spartans 0-2 Gateshead FC

Goals - Bone 15', Adore 75'