Game 1 | Gateshead V Southport 

Southport kick off the new Vanarama National League North season on Saturday with a trip to the North East to face Gateshead.

After winning five of their seven pre-season games, the Port will be confident that they can hit the ground running as they prepare for their visit to the International Stadium, which has been a familiar destination down the years.

In opposition, the Heed, will be hoping for a much less turbulent campaign than what they endured in the National League last season.

Despite surviving relegation, even with a nine-point deduction, the North East side were demoted down a division after being denied a license to play in the fifth tier.

This summer has seen the club rebuild, with new ownership, new players and a new manager in the form of former Newcastle United centre-back, Mike Williamson.

The 35-year-old was both a player and a coach at the club last year, and will hope his experiences can push the team towards a solid season.

Pre-season has seen Gateshead win three out of their four games, as their newly assembled squad looks to gel.

JJ O’Donnell and Paul Blackett were both on target twice throughout the course of the summer, and will be a threat to Southport on the opening day.

The last time the pair met was back in 2017, when Gateshead came away 3-0 winners.

Watson will hope his side can come away with a better result this time round as they look to get off to the best possible start.

Travel

Trust in Yellow is running a coach to the opening fixture. It departs Haig Avenue at 9.30am with fare of £20 for members and £25 for non-members.

Book via text on 07495875397 or e-mail fans@trustinyellow.com. Please note the change of contact number from last season.

Written by Amos Wynn