Gateshead secured a 1-1 draw against Premier League side Newcastle United in a pre-season friendly, raising warning signs for Eddie Howe's team ahead of the new campaign. The National League side, who finished 18th in the 2025 table with 50 points (14W-8D-24L), showed resilience against their top-flight opponents.
What happened in the match?
Newcastle took the lead through a first-half strike from new signing Ross Wilson, but Gateshead equalised in the second half through a well-taken goal from their striker. The result will be a boost for Gateshead as they prepare for the new National League season, while Newcastle will be concerned about their lack of dominance against lower-league opposition.
Why it matters for Gateshead
For Gateshead, this result is a positive sign as they look to improve on their 18th-place finish last season. The team, who scored 54 goals and conceded 90 in the 2025 campaign, will be hoping to build on this performance when the new season begins. Their recent form, which saw them lose four of their last five matches (LLLLW), will be a concern, but this draw against Premier League opposition will give them confidence.
What comes next for both teams?
Gateshead will now turn their attention to their upcoming National League fixtures, with their last result being a 3-1 defeat to Altrincham on April 25, 2026. They will be looking to start the new season strongly and avoid a repeat of their struggles last year, where they finished 58 points behind leaders York.
Newcastle, meanwhile, will be looking to address their issues ahead of the new Premier League season. The draw against Gateshead will be a concern for Eddie Howe, who will be hoping to see improvements in their upcoming pre-season fixtures.
