LUKE ARMSTRONG scored for the third game in a row as Gateshead maintained their 100 per cent start to the National League season with a 2-1 win over Dover.

Former Newcastle United centre-half Mike Williamson made his debut after joining the Heed last week, and almost made a dream start as he went close with an early header.

However, he was powerless to prevent Dover claiming the lead midway through the first half as Connor Essam headed on a corner, enabling Jamie Allen to prod the ball over the line.

Gateshead were level within ten minutes though, with Robbie Tinkler heading home after Greg Olley swung over a corner.

The hosts were a threat from set-pieces all game, and Williamson looped a header off the crossbar towards the end of the first half.

Dover came close when Inih Effiong fired in a dangerous strike, but Gateshead claimed a winner with three minutes left.

Steven Rigg’s shot deflected into the path or Armstrong, and the on-loan Middlesbrough striker turned neatly before firing into the corner.

Gateshead are one of four teams to have won their first three National League games – Halifax, Chesterfield and Solihull Moors are the others – and Steve Watson’s side return to action with a trip to Boreham Wood tomorrow.

Gateshead: Pears, White (Rigg 82), Tinkler, Williamson, Hunter, Mellish (O’Donnell 70), Kerr, Salkeld (Devitt 88), Olley, Armstrong, Boden.