Gateshead fell to a 3-0 defeat at home to Braintree Town on Wednesday evening, a result that leaves little room for dispute about which side deserved to take the points.
Braintree were the more purposeful outfit throughout and took control of the match in the second half after what had been a reasonably balanced opening forty minutes. Louis Storey picked up a booking just before the break, a moment that hinted at the pressure Gateshead were under even then.
Ben Radcliffe started the second half brightly for the hosts before Braintree moved through the gears decisively. Chay Cooper was cautioned in the 66th minute, and within two minutes Levi Amantchi broke the deadlock to give the visitors the lead. Fenton John was booked at the same point, adding to the tension on the Gateshead side.
Tommy Smith extended Braintree's advantage in the 74th minute, shortly after James Vennings also received a yellow card. The game was effectively over as a contest at that stage. Jacob Butterfield added a third in the 80th minute, confirming what had been apparent for some time.
The final whistle brought late bookings for both Aidan Francis Clarke and Keaton Ward, reflecting a fractious closing period that Gateshead will want to put behind them quickly.
Braintree defended their lead without difficulty and closed the match with composure, taking three points they had largely earned on merit.
Recap generated from the event timeline. Editorial team review by request. How we use AI.
