Dunston made a positive start to their pre-season schedule with a 2-1 victory over newly-promoted National League neighbours Gateshead at the UTS Stadium.

Dunston had made a lively start to the game, with Jack Elliott causing problems for the young Heed side down the left wing. He teased a cross in which found Jake Jensen, but the latter could only head over. Despite this, on just ten minutes Dunston took the lead through Richard Coulson. A mix up in the Heed back line was capitalised by the former Whitley Bay forward, and Richie calmy slotted the ball past James Montgomery to give Chris Swailes’ side the lead.

That goal gave Dunston the confidence and they took control of the game as the first half ebbed on. Liam Thear tested James Montgomery from range, before he himself got on the scoresheet to double the lead. Thear cut inside from the wing onto his left foot and unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the box which sailed into the bottom corner.

Just before half time, the visitors almost got a goal back to half the deficit, but Connor Pani’s 30 yard free kick creeped just over the bar of Dunston keeper Anderson.

Both teams made the changes in the second half to rotate squads, and the Heed got a goal back almost instantly when good work from Paul Blackett allowed Dan ward to twist, turn and curl a shot into the net to half the deficit. That goal buoyed Gateshead, and they nearly equalised through Tom Allan who came inches away, shooting narrowly wide after bringing the ball down brilliantly from a lofted Blackett pass. Despite this, Dunston continued to remain strong and repelled further Gateshead chances from Dan Ward and Robbie Tinkler to ensure they started pre-season in solid fashion.

A first win in pre-season for Chris Swailes’ men, who will look to build on this performance as they head to Birtley Town on Saturday.