Windscale’s unbeaten run in the Wearside League ended with a 3-1 defeat against Gateshead Leam Rangers at the Falcon Complex.
In a match played in monsoon conditions it was a credit to both teams that they still produced a high-quality game.
The Atoms were first to threaten early in the game when Lewis Jolly found himself with just the Gateshead keeper to beat, however, his attempt was screwed wide of goal.
But Windscale did go ahead in the 24th minute when Ben Graham scored with a delightful curling left foot strike from 20 yards.
Rangers levelled 10 minutes later when Kieron Clarke chased a long ball down the left, controlled it and after cutting inside fired it beyond home custodian Ian Studholme.
Gateshead’s game plan is always to close down the opposition quickly and deprive them of the ball. It was that man Clarke again who benefitted from that tactic.
The Atoms’ defence failed to clear an attack four minutes into the second-half when Clarke took advantage to give the visitors the lead.
Games between these two teams follow a pattern, as there are usually late goals to decide the outcome.
This was the case again when Clarke completed his hat trick with only four minutes left, giving the Atoms little time to respond.
Windscale have another tough fixture this week when they entertain high-flying Hartlepool at the Falcon on Wednesday night, kick-off 7.45pm.
