Hartlepool

Kevin Phillips in public apology to 1,300 angry Hartlepool fans after 7-1 loss


Newcastle United's near neighbours Gateshead FC caught the attention during the international break with an incredible 7-1 win over former EFL side Hartlepool United last night.

The heavy defeat for Pools resulted in former Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips making a public apology for one of the worst nights in the Victoria Park side's history as over 1,300 travelling fans were left fuming. It's ex-Newcastle keeper Rob Elliot in the dugout at the International Stadium these days with the popular goalkeeper hoping to guide the Tynesiders into the play-offs for a chance of a dream promotion to League Two.

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Pools had nicked the lead on eight minutes through Joe Grey but Gateshead hauled themselves back in it through a penalty from Luke Hannant. It was a different story after the break as Kieron Evans, Dajaune Brown (2), Regan Booty, Callum Whelan and an own goal from Courtney Duffus capped a remarkable 7-1 victory.

A humble Elliot said after the game: "I don't want to go over the top, but I'm just really proud of the lads. You have to stay humble in these moments, yeah it went our way. There's still things we need to get better at."

Meanwhile, Phillips said after the game: "I apologise to the fans. We let them down this evening. I will take the blame, they are going to be exceptionally angry, they have every right to be, the players have let them down."

For fans hoping to give Gateshead's promotion hopes a boost, Elliot's Tynesiders are at home on Good Friday against Rochdale and tickets can be purchased here.

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