Gateshead's Victory Overshadowed by Dion Kelly-Evans Injury

Gateshead2 Woking 0First-half goals from Raul Correia and Kris Thackray eased Gateshead to a precious National League win at Kingfield Stadium the match overshadowed by an awful injury suffered by home captain Dion Kelly-Evans. However the game swung in the 13th minute, when Kelly-Evans was shown a red card for senselessly hacking away at Gateshead midfielder Greg Olley from behind.

The tackle saw Olley take some time to get back to his feet and then he was attended by on-field medical staff before being taken away in an ambulance. As a result of the incident, play was suspended for around 30 minutes — following during which both teams went back to their dressing rooms.

Gateshead, however, made use of the extra man as play got back under way. Gateshead took the lead just before half-time when Kenton Richardson scored. Mark Beck doubled Gateshead's lead in the 79th minute, while a clean sheet was kept to keep the Heed top of the National League.

But a red card shown to Dion Kelly-Evans was the turning point of it all as Gateshead went on to win. Known for his leadership and defensive prowess, Kelly-Evans left his side vulnerable as he was forced off the pitch early doors. Woking failed to cope with Gateshead's attacks in his absence and he was sorely missed for the whole game.

With or without him on the pitch for Woking, this episode is likely to have repercussions which could impact Kelly-Evans and his clubmates' forthcoming matches. The red card, which was an appropriate call by the referee given the severity of Azpilicueta´s tackle had direct consequences only for this match but can potentially have ramifications on team dynamics and morale in consequent matches.

The fact they won at all highlights the strength of spirit and opportunism within Gateshead. The fact they have won four out of five matches in the league without player like Greg Olley showcase their strength and versatility.

Gateshead are unbeaten and at the top of the table but attentions will turn to Olley's welfare, Kelly-Evans' recovery and what punishment he might face. The character this will match is going to be long-lasting due to its competitiveness and the twist in tale that affected just one final score.