GATESHEAD’S new strike force has been hailed as one of the best in the Conference – and backed to fire the Tynesiders onward in both league and cup.
Ian Bogie’s side can move within two games of Wembley tonight with victory over Barrow in a third-round FA Trophy replay at the International Stadium.
But new boy Brian Wake and Daryl Clare, along with Graeme Armstrong, also have a huge part to play in securing Gateshead’s Conference future – continuing with Saturday’s grudge match at Hayes & Yeading.
Armstrong is out tonight with a groin problem, giving Clare and Wake – two-goal hero of Saturday’s superb 2-0 league win at Mansfield on his full debut – the chance to pair up.
And Gateshead’s new forward line will go to Hayes fully educated in the need for three points in the battle against relegation – and for a right to be wronged.
“You look at that (Clare and Wake) for a top two, and there’s no doubt that most clubs in the Conference top six would like them,” said coach Paul Thompson.
“They are proven quality with the nous to deliver the goods at this level.
“The difference between staying up or not at this level, or going on a cup run or not, is what you’ve got up top – and we’ve now got plenty.”
