Are Gateshead Genuine Title Contenders? – Opinion

As far as title conversations went over the summer, Gateshead were not the talk of the town in the National League.

Whilst expected to be the race for the play-off places, The Heed have quietly gone about their business and are the only unbeaten side after seven games ahead of a busy week of action to come.

Saturday’s win over the pre-season favourites Barnet came on the back of defeating the early surprise package in Eastleigh, a perfect four wins from four at the International Stadium.

There is a steely determination in the North East to right the wrong from last season. Having achieved a play-off place despite a managerial loss and numerous player departures, Rob Elliott’s side were denied the chance to compete for an EFL place.

With the local council unable to grant a ten year lease to satisfy the Football League, Gateshead were expelled from competing after the league season had finished.

That issue has since been resolved with the EFL now requiring a five year agreement allowing the Heed to go full steam ahead and so far this season they are the side to beat.

The stern test that Barnet were expected to pose on Saturday afternoon was brushed aside in similar fashion to those before them. Goals in the opening minutes of each half had the North East side in control of the match although there were enough chances for the visitors to have taken something back to The Hive.

The home side imposed their slick passing game quicker than the Bees could muster and defended stoutly to extend their run whilst the visitors suffered their third defeat of the season.

At both ends of the pitch Elliott seemingly has the balance right. They have plundered 16 goals so far which have been shared around the team, a good sign when for a side wanting to win league titles.

Currently conceding less than a goal a game, The Heed have early foundations that others can’t seem to break through. Having overcome the loss of their influential skipper Greg Olley already this season, they seem to be able to cast aside aversion and win games of football.

Their careful recruitment over the summer and attention to detail allows them to find the best players to fit the system despite not having a budget that can compete with ex-Football League clubs.

The plaudits for the way they play their football won Mike Williamson his move to the EFL with League Two MK Dons whilst Elliott has been linked with the vacant Carlisle Utd job.

That will come as no surprise to Heed fans nor any other football fan. Non-league is being looked at by EFL clubs as a breeding ground for both players and managers alike with talent in abundance.

However, the 38 year old will feel he can achieve his place in the league with Gateshead and if they can maintain their start to the season over the course of the campaign there is no reason to discount his side from celebrating promotion come May time.