Sun 12th Aug, 2007 - Gateshead!

Ahh, the press release says it all really. I'm now the new manager of Gateshead!

We'd been in talks for a couple of weeks about a part time managerial position and the current status of the club. It's an amazing setup at Gateshead International Stadium, more famous for its atheletics than the footy, but still sporting a magnificent surface and seating for around 12,000. The talent is a little on the light side though and Gateshead has barely enough youth to see them through the local competitions. The proximity to Newcastle is probably the main cause of that as even the local crowd are known to come down to the ground in black and white. All I see is potential though, and with the side facing relegation it's a challenge I'm going to relish.

It's a pity the paperwork didn't go through a day earlier as I've missed the start of the season. Richard acting as caretaker manager steered the boys to a 1-0 win away at Guiseley to set a good, positive tone from the season opener. The boys look keen, and that's all I ask...

Saturday 29th July, 2006 - Preseason over

So much for blogging away, 4 weeks since my last post! I'm guessing this will be a tad more sporadic than I thought.

Pre-season is all but over now with only 2 weeks of training left before the season opener at Lancaster. Our form seems go be up and down a bit, going down to Eastborne Boro and Leek town on the road trip, and just managing a 1-1 draw with Tamworth at home. Our only consolation from the friendlies has been a 2-0 over Marine, although we still should have had more.

Hopefully we can get some focus in the next couple of weeks and take a win on the road to get us moving in the right direction.

4th June, 2006 - Season '06

Well, it's time for another season for the Loyals. After a somewhat abrupt end to last year's season and another mid-table finish, this year is looking brighter. The pundits and media have us toted for a 4th place finish in conference north this year, and with a few new signings we might just get that promotion spot.

The guys are back in training and the mood is good. Lincoln City and Eastbourne Boro friendlies will get us underway.