GATESHEAD, England (Interstat) — In a stunning reversal of pregame projections, Gateshead delivered a commanding 3-1 victory over York City in a National League match on Tuesday afternoon at Gateshead International Stadium.

The result defied statistical models, including one from Interstat that gave York City an 84.20 percent probability of winning and projected a 1-1 draw. Instead, Gateshead’s attack, led by a prolific duo, overwhelmed the visitors to start its league campaign with a win while handing York City a loss in its opener.

The match turned decisively in a chaotic minute just before halftime. After a first half with few clear chances, midfielder Keaton Ward broke the deadlock for the hosts in the 41st minute. Before the crowd had finished celebrating, Ward struck again moments later, doubling Gateshead’s lead before the break. Both goals were assisted by midfielder Fenton John.

Gateshead extended its dominance in the 65th minute. Forward Ashley Boatswain found the net, with the assist credited to defender Brad Nicholson. Boatswain was not finished, adding a second goal just minutes later in the 65th minute to put the game out of reach at 4-0. Midfielder Josh Home provided the assist on Boatswain’s second strike.

York City managed a consolation goal in the 85th minute through Louis Storey. Substitute Alex Newby recorded the assist. Gateshead substitute Hiram Boateng also notched an assist during the match.

The visitors scored again deep into stoppage time, with Ollie Pearce finding the net in the 90+3rd minute, making the final score 3-1.

The physical match featured several cautions. York City’s Fenton John and Josh Home were each shown yellow cards in the 16th and 57th minutes, respectively. For Gateshead, substitutes Alex Newby and Hiram Boateng were booked in the 79th and 84th minutes, while defender Brad Nicholson received a yellow card in the 81st minute.

With the result, Gateshead begins its National League season with one win and no losses. York City starts with no wins and one loss. The records across all competitions for both clubs are identical to their league starts.