Gateshead have been sanctioned from competing in the Vanarama National League play-offs despite a sixth placed finish that would have seen the club travel away to Solihull Moors, as confirmed via a statement from The National League.
The Heed had secured a place in the top seven, only two years after their promotion from the National League North while also losing manager Mike Williamson to MK Dons as well as star-man Stephen Wearne, it has been a memorable season.
Despite that, these memories will not be capped off with a chance at promotion due to a legality issue which will not allow the club to compete in the play-offs. The decision comes due to a failure to meet entry criteria for entry to the EFL if the club were to succeed in their bid for promotion.
This comes after the club did not fulfil the 10-year security of their stadium which is a requirement for clubs entering the EFL for the first time. Following the club’s request of a long-term tenure from Gateshead Council, this was refused resulting in a risk of a refusal of entry to the EFL leading to the decision of forfeiture in The National League play-offs.
It is understood that the deadline for these requirements to be met passed on the 28th of March 2024 to which the council offered options to the club, in which none of these were of appease to the EFL.
Consequently, this will see Solihull Moors receive a bye into the semi-finals, The Moors were due to host Gateshead at The ARMCO Arena on April 23rd but will now travel to Barnet for a place at Wembley.
Gateshead’s board of directors have released a statement via the club’s official website in response to the decision:
“Gateshead Football Club are extremely disappointed to find ourselves in the position as outlined in the statements released by the EFL and the National League. Rest assured we will continue to challenge both decisions, and we will endeavour to ensure that footballing matters are decided on the pitch.
“Therefore, our players and staff remain 100% focused on the task in hand, and we wish go on record to express our gratitude to the National League for supporting our challenge to the EFL.
“Due to the legality of this matter, no further comments will be made by Gateshead FC until appropriate.
Writer’s View
Gateshead’s progress has been admirable over the last season. Paving the careers for some remarkable forwards such as Stephen Wearne, Macauley Langstaff and Cedwyn Scott while also playing excellent football, this only makes the outcome even more disappointing to see the club denied the opportunity to go one further following a remarkable season.
