Words Joe Edgar | Pictures Jonathan Moore

Altrincham travel to the most northernly stadium in the division on Saturday as we face Gateshead at the Gateshead International Stadium in the Vanarama National League (kick-off 3pm).

Setting the Scene

Altrincham produced a quality performance on Tuesday, drawing 2-2 at Boundary Park against fellow promotion-chasers Oldham Athletic. 

After dominating the first half, Alex Newby scored for Alty with a tidy left-footed strike, and it was quickly followed after the half-time interval by a curling strike from Regan Linney, who scored his 17th league goal of the season. Unfortunately for the Robins, goals from James Norwood and Josh Lundstram meant the points were shared.

The point keeps Altrincham in 7th and in the playoffs, just two points behind Halifax in 6th place. Saturday’s opponents are just two places above Alty in 5th, earning 52 points from their 29 games played this season.

Gateshead have had a productive campaign, despite the departure of key staff and players during the course of the season so far. They play a particular brand of attacking football – only York and Barnet have scored more goals this season – and Saturday’s clash should be very closely-fought and entertaining.

The thoughts of Phil Parkinson

“Saturday's game against Gateshead is probably going to be a bit of a tactical battle more than a physical one we had in midweek at Oldham.

"We're two really good footballing sides. We've adapted since we've come into the division, we go long a bit more than Gateshead, although having said that they are capable of mixing it up as well."

The first clash in October

October 2024 – The last meeting between Altrincham and Gateshead finished level in an entertaining 2-2 draw.

After a Tom Crawford penalty gave Alty the lead, Jacob Butterfield and Owen Oseni fired back to put the Heed in front heading into the final stages of the match. Just as the game looked to be won, however, a late goal from Alex Newby ensured the points were shared.

Watch extended highlights from October's clash on Alty TV here.

Admission

Buy your tickets for the Gateshead International Stadium matchup right here from our hosts.

• £22 Adults
• £17 65+/Blue Light/Serving Armed Forces
• £12 17-21s
• £7 15-16s

Under 14s – Free Entry with paying adult (proof of age could well be requested); Carers go free with a full paying spectator needing care assistance.

Away supporters will be housed in the north end of the Tyne and Wear Stand. Access is via turnstiles 1 and 2 on Neilson Road, where cash and card payments will also be accepted.

For away travel check with our friends at Union Golf Road for any available seats - book online here.

Prices £26.99 Adults | £23.99 Under 18s | £45.88 Parent & Child (10% saving)

Can't make it to the North East?

Join Radio Robins on Radio Alty from 2:45pm with Brian Flynn & Ian Wilkinson bringing you live commentary all evening long.

Come On You Robins!!!