"There's been pressure, there's been high energy around the place and now it's elation combined with relief because we've set out to achieve what we wanted to achieve." Those were the words of Mike Williamson before Gateshead Football club held aloft the National League title, defying all odds in a league dominated by former Football League sides and clubs with much bigger budgets than themselves.
There have been memorable nights on the banks of the river Tyne for the Heed but the struggles of recent seasons have made winning the title that little bit sweeter. The story of Gateshead's near dice with extinction is well documented, combined with the crippling effect Covid-19 has had on clubs up and down the country, to then go up as Champions as a fan owned club - is a remarkable achievement.
The Heed were 10/1 to win the National League North back in November and were even greater odds when the season began. But this season has been all about defying the odds and the manner in which they've done it has been incredible, scoring 99 goals along the way.
