Mark Hughes’ belief that his Carlisle United side could win their remaining five games was wrecked by Gateshead at Brunton Park.
The National League strugglers were delighted to take home a point after an exciting 0-0 draw with chances aplenty for both sides.
It was a disappointing end to a three-match winning run for the Blues and Boreham Wood’s big 5-1 win over Wealdstone cut the gap between third and fourth to four points.
The game got off to a lively start with both teams having a goal disallowed for offside in the first 12 minutes while Gateshead’s Keaton Ward thumped an effort against the Carlisle post.
Hugh Parker had a good chance for Carlisle when he latched onto a pass from Stephen Wearne but from close range was denied by visiting keeper Adam Desbois.
When it was Gateshead’s turn to go close Josh Anifowose saw a shot cleared off the line by Morgan Feeney.
The chances continued to arrive and Carlisle went closest in the second-half when both David Ajiboye and Regan Linney hit the woodwork.
Attention now turns to Monday’s fixtures when Carlisle travel to Morecambe – shock 4-2 winners yesterday at leaders Rochdale – while Boreham Wood travel to Solihull.
