Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley acknowledges the team’s solid performances in their opening National League matches, despite narrowly missing out on victories. The Glovers currently hold two points from their first two games, both 1-1 draws against Scunthorpe and Carlisle. Rowley feels the side could have secured six points, having led in both matches before conceding late goals.
“We were leading in both of these games,” Rowley said. “It’s a bit of a blow to drop points that way, but it could be worse-we could have no points at this stage.”
This weekend, Yeovil Town will host Gateshead at Huish Park in a 12:30pm kick-off. Gateshead have earned three points so far, with a 2-1 defeat at Eastleigh followed by a 2-0 victory against Woking. The Tynesiders, managed by former Premier League midfielder Lee Cattermole, are expected to provide a stern test.
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“They have some decent players and appear to be implementing new ideas during their recent matches,” Rowley explained. “Every game in this league is going to be challenging.”
Historically, Gateshead have had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning three of the last five encounters, including a remarkable 4-3 comeback win at Huish Park last season after trailing by three goals at halftime. Yeovil’s most recent win over Gateshead came in the 2023 FA Cup first round, a 3-2 victory at home.
Rowley holds Cattermole in high regard, praising his playing career and expressing confidence in his potential as a manager.
“He’s a player I admire,” Rowley said. “Anyone who’s played Premier League football has achieved something incredible.”
The match will also see former Yeovil defender Kyle Ferguson return to Huish Park. Rowley described Ferguson as “a top lad” and expressed his respect for the player, noting he provided positive character references when other clubs enquired about him during the summer.
Injury concerns remain for Yeovil, with James Daly doubtful after sustaining a foot injury against Carlisle, causing him to miss training throughout the week. Conversely, Loick Ayina has recovered fully from a knee injury that sidelined him on the opening day.
Rowley remains optimistic about his squad’s attacking potential, highlighting the exciting talent in his forward players and their ability to engage fans.
“We have some really talented front players who are exciting to watch,” he said. “There are some good one-on-one players in the team, which I always enjoy seeing.”
With an early kick-off scheduled this Saturday, Rowley hopes Yeovil Town can convert their promising performances into their first league win of the season.