Mike Williamson felt Gateshead were worthy winners in an ‘extremely pleasing’ derby day win over Blyth Spartans.
The Heed got off to a flying start when Macaulay Langstaff put them ahead 10 minutes in, before Adam Campbell and Taylor Charters added gloss to the scoreline in the second half.
“[It was] extremely pleasing, I thought the lads put a real shift in,” said Williamson.
“I thought they were focused on their jobs and executed very well against a very good team.
“It was difficult going into half time 1-0 up, they were always in the game and Filip had to make a big save at 1-0.
“We felt as though we did have control of the game, but you’re playing a derby and they’ve got players on the pitch like they have who can score from any set piece or moment in transition.
“It was never comfortable until we were 3-0 up in terms of the scoreline, but our performance was very good.
“It was about playing the game and not the occasion, as they say, but it was a difficult game for us.
“Blyth came here, away from home, they’ve already beaten us once and we’re the favourites going into it so it’s more of a nothing to lose situation for them, which adds pressure to the lads.
“We could have converted a few more chances but the lads were fantastic, they focused on their jobs, their process and got their rewards.”
Tuesday evening’s win marked the return of Danny Greenfield to the starting 11 for the first time since the opening day of the season.
“Danny has had a difficult season,” Williamson added.
“He’s had a few setbacks and he’s still very young, but all I can say is he’s been so focused on improving every day and has been working relentlessly.
“He’s desperate to play and he’s had to be patient but it’s safe to say he’s grabbed it with both hands, he was excellent.
“I’m over the moon for him, it couldn’t have happened to a nicer lad. He’s genuine, humble and wants to improve every day.”
