Morecambe’s misfortune might just save Armstrong’s season at Gateshead FC
Written by Michael Hope on 1st October 2025
Gateshead FC manager Alun Armstrong.
Photo: Gateshead FC.
Alun Armstrong’s job is beginning to look more secure after he secured back-to-back wins for the first time as Gateshead boss.
Former Blyth Spartans and Darlington manager Armstrong joined the Tynesiders back in June 2025, after a two-year absence from management since leaving Darlington in 2023.
The Heed began the season with inconsistent form, with the longest spell unbeaten being three games in late August. But following a run of six matches without a win, it seemed as though the Englishman may be under pressure.
Speaking in the middle of September, Armstrong said his players’ recent struggles in the league were a case of “backs against the wall”. Things seemed grim, with some supporters questioning Armstrong’s position as manager.
However, Gateshead now have two victories on the road in the National League. Last Saturday saw the Tynesiders travel to struggling Braintree Town, who sit 21st in the National League.
The International Stadium, home to Gateshead FC.
The recent trip to Essex proved fruitful for the Tynesiders, taking all three points back to the North East with a 2-1 win.
Two early goals took Gateshead in front, Braintree struggled to find a response, but managed to claw a goal back from a close range shot by Braintree Town’s winger Terrell Works.
There was controversy in stoppage time as home fans claimed the ball had crossed the line, but no goal was given.
Afterwards, Armstrong praised his squad, saying: “They’ve stood up, and they were really counted today.” He added: “We needed the win, that’s a certainty.”
Alun Armstrong on a 2-1 win at Braintree #WorClub ⚪️⚫️ pic.twitter.com/32bYBw24Xn
— Gateshead FC (@GatesheadFC) September 27, 2025
Yesterday evening also saw a win for Armstrong’s Heed army, with the Tynesiders away at struggling Morecambe FC, who sit at the foot of the National League table after a poor return to the top tier of non-league football under new manager Ashvir Singh Johal.
The Shrimps have been in a run of very poor form, with only two wins from 10 matches and recently suffered a 5-0 defeat to fellow National League strugglers Truro City.
This gave Gateshead a chance to capitalise on their woes and take all three points – which they did.
The Heed found themselves 4-0 up within 12 minutes of the match, which delighted the fans travelling to the Mazuma Mobile Stadium.
The Shrimps managed to scrape back two consolation goals through midfielder George Thomas and left-back Lewis Payne.
Gateshead put the final nail in Morecambe’s coffin with a 72nd-minute goal from left-back Connor Pani. For the travelling supporters the positives were clear: Gateshead showed they can create chances, score goals and get a result.
Armstrong said: “Proud, that’s a certainty,” adding: “Some of the football we played was sensational, and I had to have a sit down just watching it.”
He also commented: “We need to be patient with these lads”.
“I had to have a sit down just watching it!”
Alun Armstrong on tonight’s 5-2 win in Morecambe #WorClub ⚪️⚫️ pic.twitter.com/vDpRuaFpgj
— Gateshead FC (@GatesheadFC) September 30, 2025
