ANY Gateshead observer taking in this game would have learned little or nothing about his team's FA Trophy task at Victory Park on Saturday.

With key players Dean Emerson and Kenny Mayers again missing from manager Dave Sutton's lineup, the Magpies' play lacked fire and flair against a poor Frickley side who looked obvious relegation candidates. Chorley were given the ideal start after only 10 minutes when Mark Wright powerfully headed in a corner.

Wright did have a fierce low drive kicked off the line but Chorley's somewhat casual approach was their undoing seconds before the interval when Scott Armstrong volleyed Frickey level from a right wing cross. The second half was quite featureless until the referee denied Chorley the clearest of penalties when Brian Ross was upended as he cut in on goal.

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