Southend United secured their spot in the National League play-offs with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Gateshead at the Gateshead International Stadium on May 5, 2025. The match saw the Shrimpers, buoyed by a passionate crowd of 1,755 travelling fans, dominate possession and create several scoring opportunities, but they ultimately couldn’t find the back of the net.
The game started with Southend showing their intent early on. Within the first four minutes, they earned two corners, signaling their attacking mindset. Oli Coker had a chance to put Southend ahead when he fired over from 20 yards following a half-cleared cross from Jack Bridge. Shortly after, Charley Kendall’s low cross from the right wing was smothered by Gateshead goalkeeper George Shelvey, who was quick to react to the danger.
As the first half progressed, Southend continued to apply pressure. Keenan Appiah-Forson’s dangerous cross was diverted wide by Kendall, who was looking to capitalize on the Shrimpers’ early momentum. However, Gateshead responded with a volley from Jovan Malcolm that soared over the crossbar from 25 yards, reminding Southend that they needed to stay vigilant.
In a pivotal moment of the first half, Ben Goodliffe had a golden opportunity to score but his close-range header was saved by Shelvey’s legs. The Shrimpers were left frustrated as they failed to convert their chances, a theme that would haunt them throughout the match.
As the second half kicked off, Southend maintained their attacking philosophy. A close-range effort from striker Hopper was easily saved by Shelvey, who was proving to be a formidable barrier for Southend’s forwards. Goodliffe then found himself in the thick of the action again, unleashing a low 20-yard shot that Shelvey managed to parry away, keeping the scoreline level.
In the 69th minute, Southend’s manager Kevin Maher made a tactical change, bringing on Josh Walker and Macauley Bonne to replace Kendall and Hopper, hoping to inject fresh energy into the attack. Meanwhile, Gateshead responded with their own changes, introducing Branden Horton, Frank Nouble, and Charlie Colkett in an attempt to gain an upper hand in the final third.
As the match wore on, Southend continued to press, and they made another substitution ten minutes from time with Cav Miley replacing Coker. Shortly thereafter, Leon Parillon came on for Bridge, further altering the dynamics of the game. Southend mounted another attack, with Appiah-Forson’s deflected cross narrowly missing the left post, showcasing their determination to clinch a late winner.
Despite their efforts, Southend had to endure a tense finish as Gateshead pushed for a late goal. The match entered a nerve-wracking eight minutes of added time, during which Southend’s defense held firm, ensuring they would secure the draw that confirmed their place in the play-offs.
With the result, Southend finishes in seventh place, setting up a crucial play-off clash against Richdale next Thursday, May 8, 2025. The Shrimpers will look to build on their solid performance and convert their chances in the upcoming match, as they aim for a successful run in the playoffs.
