HIGH FLIERS Gateshead produced a second half performance that more than justified their position in the league's top three.

Both teams were well matched in the first half, but after the break, Gateshead produced a football masterclass and repeatedly ripped open Buxton's defence.

The home side had keeper Scott Hartley to thank for keeping them in the game as he produced a stream of quality saves.

Buxton started well and showed good movement but were let down by their finishing ability.

Gateshead had the best opportunities and it was only Hartley's hard work that kept them out until the 39th minute, when Phil Cave scored.

A minute later Buxton were unlucky not to level when Michael Towey unleashed a fierce shot from close range, blocked only by a superb save from Paul Musselwhite.

From the restart, the visitors were without doubt the stronger side.

Neil Ross was gifted a chance to equalise for Buxton but his header went over the bar before Towey had his second decent shot of the game denied by Musselwhite with less than ten minutes of the second half played.

Gateshead were quick to capitalise on any opportunity to take charge of the game and extended their lead just before the hour.

David Southern's shot looked to have been deflected off Scott Hartley on its way into the net on 59 minutes.

Good work by Hartley then kept the scoreline respectable until late on in the game.

A goal each from Gateshead's Steve Bowey and Kris Gate within the space of five minutes sealed the game for the visitors.

Team: Hartley, Lees, Agus, Bowker, Maxfield, Foster, Wilson (Grindey 69), Towey, Ross, Walker (Balfe 61), Henry (Bradley 56). Attendance: 385.