Gateshead reserves host Millers

Gateshead reserves manager Paul Bryson has named a strong side to face Rotherham United tonight as he looks to build on the League and Cup double over Hartlepool United.

Goalkeeper Tim Deasy plays his last game before he undergoes knee surgery on Thursday which will sideline him for 4-6 weeks.

Experienced utility player Chris Carruthers plays at left back after recovering from a groin strain with Dan Lay switching to the centre of defence.

Kyle Nix partners captain Rob Briggs in the centre of midfield with Martin Brittain and Josh Gillies providing the width.

Nathan Fisher and Gary Mulligan, who scored both goals against Hartlepool last week, continue their partnership up front.

Gateshead include five players with Football League experience against a Millers second string that lost their first game 2-1 against Bradford City after leading.

With an unbeaten Gateshead winning six of their opening seven Conference games and the reserves their first two games Bryson is keen to maintain the feelgood factor.

"Both of our sides have got off to a great start, particularly the first team, and there is a winning mentality at the club," said Bryson.

"The reserves played very well in the two games against Hartlepool United and should have won more convincingly.

"There is a lot of competition at the club and players in the reserves need to catch the eye if they are to force their way into the first team picture.

"Josh Gillies was rewarded for his performance against Pools with a place on the subs bench against Alfreton Town at the weekend.

"Gary Mulligan and Nathan Fisher also both did well and were on the bench alongside Gillies and Ewan Moyes showed in the two games against Hartlepool that we have good cover at the centre of defence."

Tonight's Central League game against Rotherham United at the International Stadium kicks-off at 7pm.

Gateshead: Deasy, Baxter, Carruthers, Briggs, Moyes, Lay, Brittain, Nix, Mulligan, Fisher, Gillies
Subs: Marshall, Gilbert, Luke