Mike Williamson has this message for Gateshead squad after play-off heartache

Brad Abbott of Boston is fouled during the Vanarama National League North Play-Off Semi-final match between Boston United and Gateshead.

Gateshead player-manager Mike Williamson has called on his players to “come back stronger” after their National League North play-off semi-final defeat at Boston United.

The reverse ended the Heed’s chances of ending their campaign by securing a return to non-league’s top table just 12 months after being relegated as a punishment for financial irregularities under the club’s former owners.

A season of rebuilding and developing the squad came to an end at York Street on Saturday as Williamson’s side fell to a 5-3 defeat against a strong Pilgrims side.

All eyes will now turn towards planning for a return to league action in September as the Heed prepare to battle with the likes of Spennymoor Town, York City and newly-relegated AFC Fylde at the top end of the National League North table.

Williamson hailed the efforts of his squad and the club’s directors as he assessed the events of the previous 12 months at the International Stadium and revealed his burning desire to build on the progress made in his first season in management.

“The lads never stopped pushing, they never give up,” explained Williamson.

“We all have to take this on, young and old, learn from it and come back stronger.

“We are hurting right now, but that’s the nature of the industry and what sets people apart, winners and losers, is how you react.

“That sets you apart and this has been a massive learning curve for us all.

“The group, the togetherness, the team morale has been phenomenal.

“That goes right from the top, from Neil (Pinkerton, chairman), the board of directors, they have been incredible.

“They have backed us the whole way and it all just adds fuel to the fire of wanting to repay that and build on this season.”

Gateshead looked to be on their way to setting up a play-off final visit to Altrincham next weekend when JJ O’Donnell headed them in front midway through the first half at Boston.

However, a pair of contentious penalty decisions allowed the hosts to take an unexpected lead into half-time.

Williamson was at the heart of the first decision ten minutes before the interval as he appeared to pull out of a challenge on former Heed loanee Jake Wright.