Gateshead manager Mike Williamson comments on Hartlepool United's 'fantastic' promotion ahead of pre-season friendly
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Pools were promoted back to the Football League following a play-off final penalty shoot out victory over Torquay United last month.
Now Dave Challinor’s side are preparing for a short trip north to Gateshead for their third pre-season friendly this weekend.
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Hide AdThe Heed haven’t played a competitive match since January 2020 and the game against Pools will see fans return to the International Stadium for the first time since March 2020.
Gateshead hosted Pools last pre-season with the visitors emerging as 4-1 victors thanks to goals from Gary Liddle, Joe Grey, David Parkhouse and Claudio Ofosu.
As it stands, Williamson’s side are the only full-time opponents Pools are scheduled to face ahead of the new League Two season. And the Tynesiders’ player-manager is keen to give Hartlepool a good test this weekend having watched his side score 17 goals in their opening four pre-season matches.
“Last season we played them in pre-season and they were very strong and physical,” Williamson told the club website.
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Hide Ad“Off the back of that had a fantastic season and they’ve stepped up a level which is good for the area. For us it’s about our process and making sure we carry on everything we’ve been doing in previous games, regardless of the standard of opponent.
“I’m looking forward to it because it will be a good test and one that will be different for us.”