Armstrong hails Heed heroes after Cup shock

ALUN Armstrong was left speechless as a heroic Gateshead performance secured a shock win at AFC Wimbledon and sent his side into today’s second round draw.

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Kane Adom celebrates scoring the opening goal in Gateshead's 2-0 win at AFC Wimbledon; inset, Alun Armstrong with his players at full-time

(EMILIO KIRTLRY)

The Heed were big outsiders to claim an unexpected win at the home of the League One promotion contenders - but they made a confident start and got their reward when Kain Adom fired them in front midway through the first half.

With goalkeeper Tiernan Brooks putting in an impressive display, there was a solidity about the Heed’s backline and their visitors struggled to threaten on a consistent basis.

Remarkably, the lead was doubled seven minutes after the restart as former Middlesbrough youngster Fenton John found the net to give his side the cushion their organisation and discipline fully deserved.