Gateshead boss Mike Williamson labels defeat at Boston United a 'bitter pill to swallow', stating 'best footballing team lost'

Gateshead manager Mike Williamson described his side's play-off semi-final defeat at Boston United as 'a bitter pill to swallow'.

In a measured interview, the Heed player-manager - who conceded two first-half penalties - questioned referee Robert Massey-Ellis' performance but vowed his side would come back stronger next season.

"I don't think words can describe really, we're gutted, deflated, frustrated, angry. And that's the nature of the industry," the former Newcastle United defender told Gateshead FC's official YouTube channel."It's a bitter pill to swallow, it feels like the best footballing team lost today."

Jordan Thewlis netted two first-half spot kicks after Williamson was adjudged to have tripped Wright, later tugging him back in the box off the ball.

"I feel as though the referee didn't really have a handle on the game from minute one. I thought we were the better footballing team and it changed the game," he added.

"The second penalty, I was getting my shirt pulled so I reacted to it. The most experienced person on the pitch he lost his cool."

Williamson then challenged his squad to come back stronger next season.

He added: "That's the only option, that's what separates winners and losers.

"We feel as though we've been hard done by but instantly it fuels a fire to make sure that we do everything we can next season to get this football club back to where it belongs.

"We can look back and dwell on decisions in the game, or decisions over the season, but for me it's about making sure my energy and focus in on picking the lads up.

"Until the final whistle we had three or four chances but today wasn't to be."

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