Match Preview: Jack McGraghan

Gateshead kick off the first of six games inside three weeks against Kidderminster Harriers on Tuesday, September 19 (7:45pm kick off).

The Heed come into a home double-header this week on the back of a four-game unbeaten run, though a late draw at Aldershot last Saturday arguably should have ended with three points returning to Tyneside.

Mike Williamson’s side sit eighth in the league table as things stand, and face a Kidderminster side struggling for results in 21^st position.

Their performances indicate a side who can compete well in the division and defensively there have been few problems, with only Solihull Moors and FC Halifax Town conceding less then Kidderminster so far.

Goals have been hard to come by however, and Harriers have netted just four times in nine games this season, leading to one win and four draws from their opening fixtures.

They face a Gateshead side who have enjoyed a free-scoring start to the season by scoring 21 goals in nine games – only league leaders Chesterfield have netted more.

Russ Penn’s side are winless in seven prior to tonight’s trip to the North East, but could move as far as six places higher than their current position should they take three points.

Gateshead, meanwhile, could jump up to fourth place with a win this evening.

Heed View

“The stats tell you that [Kidderminster] have been really unlucky with results,” said Ian Watson.

“Russ is an unbelievable person first and foremost, and he’s an outstanding manager as well.

“You know you’re going to be in for a shift, they’re going to put the ball in the box as much as they can and make it physical.”

Opposition View

“You’ve got perform first and foremost, and we’re doing that,” said Kidderminster manager, Russ Penn, following Saturday’s defeat to Solihull Moors.

“We’re doing some really good things at the moment, but we’re not doing the biggest things, it’s obvious to see.

“We’ve got loads of games in the next three, so there’s loads of points up for grabs.”

Team News

Callum Whelan and Connor Pani remain unavailable through injury for tonight’s clash, though the latter has returned to full training.

Last Time We Met

Gateshead secured an emphatic 4-0 victory in the 2021/22 National League North title race when Kidderminster last visited Gateshead International Stadium.

A Macaulay Langstaff, plus goals from Greg Olley and Taylor Charters, secured three points to send Mike Williamson’s side on their way to the league title.

Live Streaming

Supporters based domestically and internationally can watch Tuesday’s game live from Gateshead International Stadium via www.nationalleaguetv.com, with match day passes priced at £9.50.

Fans will have the ability to switch between any National League match streamed on any given match day.

Live Commentary

Commentary will be provided by the Heed Army Podcast on YouTube, with coverage starting from 7:30pm.

Ticketing Information

Tickets can be purchased online or on the gate at Gateshead International Stadium, with admission priced at:

Adult: £20

Concession (65+, Blue Light, Armed Services or Veteran): £15

Young Adult (17-21): £10

Youth (15-16): £5

14 & Under: Free (must be accompanied by a paying adult)

Turnstiles will open to all supporters at 6:15pm.

Segregation will be in place, with Kidderminster Harriers supporters seated in the Tyne & Wear Stand (North).

Home supporters can purchase tickets online here, or on the gate via cash or card.

Kidderminster supporters can purchase tickets online here, or on the gate via cash or card.

Tickets purchased online are not posted to supporters and must be either printed at home or shown via smartphone upon entry.