A week before their opening league games against Wolves U21s and Aldershot respectively, United's second string and the Tynesiders met in a behind-closed-doors kickabout at Darsley Park.

Gateshead began with a trio of former Magpies in their lineup - Craig Baxter, Matty Pattison and Paddy McLaughlin - and had the better of the opening exchanges before taking a 12th minute lead.

The visitors missed a series of chances to extend their lead, before United levelled just before the hour mark when Callum Roberts marked his return from injury by playing in Alex Gilliead to shoot past Sam Russell from 18 yards.

What proved to be the winner though saw former Blyth Spartans defender Nathan Buddle stay up after a corner and gain his reward when Paddy McLaughlin played the ball back into the area.

PS: Although he had joined Peter Beardsley's squad in training the day before this game, striker Ivan Toney didn't feature, with news awaited on his permanent move from Northampton Town.

Also absent was Dutch midfielder Dani Koks, who joined United on their pre-season tour of his homeland but failed to win a contract at the Magpies.