Bitesize Prediction: Chesterfield vs Gateshead – 10/01/24

Competition: National League

Market: Chesterfield win

Odds: 6/11 @ Pribet

Simply looking to widen their buffer at the top of the National League table, Chesterfield will welcome Gateshead to the SMH Group Stadium on Wednesday night.

Starting with the hosts, while Chesterfield might have suffered FA Cup heartbreak away at Championship outfit Watford over the weekend, Paul Cook’s side should still find the mood in their camp at a continued high. Despite eventually falling to a 2-1 defeat in the capital, the Spiretites hold a commanding six-point buffer at the top of the National League standings. Rightfully tipped as a standout contender to punch a fourth-tier return in 2024, the one-time Wigan boss has seen his squad win six of their previous seven National League appearances – a run that stems back to November 16th. Opening the New Year with another statement as they secured an action-packed 3-2 win against Solihull Moors, Chesterfield will also be excited by their continued success on home soil. Including a stellar 4-1 romp against Aldershot last month, it should be highlighted that Cook’s high-flying squad have won all of their last 14 straight showdowns at the SMH Group Stadium.

As for the visitors, although Gateshead might have enjoyed a real National League flurry back in November, the Tynesiders have largely failed to find a similar level over recent times. Last seen opening the New Year with a toothless performance as they suffered a 2-0 defeat against York, interim boss Rob Elliot has seen his temporary squad win just a pair of their previous six showdowns against fifth-tier opposition. Although Wednesday’s guests might still have their sights set on pinching a play-off ticket in 2024, Gateshead will be more than aware that they face a heavyweight challenge here. Suffering a 2-1 loss when they last met Chesterfield 10 months ago, they were also hit with an identical outcome in their most recent trip to the SMH Group Stadium. While the north west outfit might currently find themselves sat just a single point adrift of breaking into the National League’s play-off spots, we are expecting a home victory for the runaway leaders in midweek.

Bet: Chesterfield 6/11 to beat Gateshead in Wednesday’s National League battle @ Pribet