The journey, from Gateshead to Eastleigh and back, is one of the longest in English football, according to analysis by the AA. It ranks as the second-longest opening day trip for fans across the top five tiers of English football, with only Carlisle United’s journey to Worthing further at 720 miles. READ MORE: Drivers face travel nightmare as major roads into Southampton shutMotorists are being advised to prepare for increased traffic as the new season kicks off during the busy summer holiday period, with the National League starting on Saturday. Fans are also reminded to perform essential vehicle checks before setting off. Fuel prices currently sit at an average of £1.60 per litre.