by Izzy Jackopson

A closely contested Friday evening fixture at Huish Park saw Yeovil Town and Gateshead play out a 0-0 draw. Despite moments of excitement and near-misses, neither side was able to break the deadlock in a game defined by resilience and missed opportunities.

The Glovers came agonisingly close to an early breakthrough just three minutes in. A cut-back to Sean McGurk in the centre of the penalty area saw his powerful shot cannon off the post, denying Yeovil an ideal start.

While the opening moments looked promising, the remainder of the first half unfolded as a midfield battle, with both sides vying for possession and pushing slightly more towards Gateshead’s defensive third. Yeovil came within inches of taking the lead again in the 44th minute. Finn Cousin-Dawson’s header struck the post, though any celebrations would have been short-lived as the linesman raised his flag for offside.

Yeovil applied late pressure before the interval. Jake Wannell delivered a dangerous ball across the box, but it narrowly evaded Matt Worthington, leaving the Glovers frustrated as the teams headed into the break.

Gateshead showed glimpses of intent early in the second half. Ben Worman carved out space on the right flank to fire a shot on goal, but Ollie Wright was well-positioned to make a comfortable save. The visitors continued to threaten as Liam Humbles unleashed an ambitious effort from outside the box on the hour mark, though his shot sailed high and wide.

The Glovers had their own opportunities to edge ahead. In the 67th minute, Charlie Cooper delivered a pinpoint free-kick into the box, met by Wannell, but his header went off target. Yeovil continued to press, with Ciaran McGukin’s counter-attack setting up Matt Worthington for a strike on goal, only for the Gateshead keeper to thwart the effort.

In the 83rd minute, Yeovil came tantalisingly close once more. A scramble in the Gateshead box left the ball at Jacob Maddox’s feet, but his shot was blocked by a defender. The rebound fell to Kofi Shaw, who put his effort wide, only to see the assistant referee’s flag raised for offside.

Gateshead had their own flirtation with a late winner, as Luke Hannant struck the woodwork with a well-hit shot from outside the area. With three minutes remaining, Wright made a crucial save to deny Will McGowan, ensuring the game remained level.

Despite seven minutes of additional time, neither side could find the elusive winner. The final whistle confirmed a point apiece, with both teams remaining in their respective league positions.

A night of frustration for Yeovil, but a solid defensive effort and glimpses of creativity will offer positives as they look ahead to their next fixture.