‘Head still sing away day blues

Sep 20 2009 Sunday Sun

A LATE Mattie Barnes goal condemned Gateshead to a 3-2 defeat at Aggborough after a wonder strike from captain Kris Gate, pictured, looked to have earned the Tynesiders a point.

The Harriers nicked victory with 10 minutes left and if Gateshead do not sort out their defensive frailties they’ll be heading back to the Conference North.

The last four away games have all brought defeats with 11 goals conceded, though Gateshead should have picked up points from the last two.

Ian Bogie’s side took a 12th-minute lead when Alex Francis’s free kick, following a foul on Graeme Armstrong, drifted into the far corner untouched.

Jim Provett twice denied Barnes before the Harriers striker swung in a right-side cross on 27 minutes that defender Chris Swailes headed into his own net.

The midlanders then took a half-time lead when Barnes’ through ball took a deflection and Brian Smikle nipped in to lift the ball over Provett.

Kidderminster were denied a third in the last minute of the opening half when Chris McPhee’s volley came back off the post.