Gateshead can control own play-off fate - James Curtis
Last updated on .From the section Football
Defender James Curtis says Gateshead will control their own play-off destiny when they face Cambridge United in their final regular season game.
The Tynesiders could settle for a draw to finish in the Conference Premier top five but could climb to third with a win and other favourable results.
"It's our mentality to go out and win the game, same as the gaffer," Curtis told BBC Newcastle.
"We're not a team to hang back and settle for a draw."
Curtis, who made his 500th appearance for Gateshead against Braintree earlier this month, added: "It's a dangerous game to play. We'll be out to get the three points and look forward to the play-offs."
Gateshead have established themselves in the Conference Premier thanks to the input of chairman Graham Wood, who made the club full-time in 2010.
However the arrival of Gary Mills as manager in September has turned ambitions into a realistic proposition, leading the club from 19th in the table to within 90 minutes of the play-offs.
"It's a massive opportunity, the chairman has been brilliant and he's striving to get us to the Football League," 32-year-old Curtis said.
"Everything is set up and it's a big chance to get into that league. We'll be doing everything we can to get the points and then in the play-offs to get promotion."
Wembley is another incentive for the Gateshead players, with the final to be played at the national stadium for the prize of joining champions Luton in the Football League next season.
"It's a dream on the horizon. I've never played there before," Curtis added.
"It would be unbelievable if we can get there, especially when I've played my 500th game and it's my testimonial year.
"To cap it off with a trip to Wembley would be incredible really."
