The Opposition View – Gillingham

In the wake of yesterday’s 1-0 home defeat to Gillingham, here are some views on the game from the Gills’ manager Martin Allen and a few of their fans.

“What a magic second half, ” said Allen.

“The players were absolutely fantastic. To see them once again celebrating in front of our travelling supporters who sung their hearts out behind the goal was magical and it was a great win.”

“The fans saw a team defend resolutely and give very few opportunities to the home team who had hardly anything in the second half.”

“Everyone was fully committed and there was passion from the players on the bench even though they are carrying a lot of disappointment. Fair play to all the players, it was another good win and another three points on the board.”


The Gills fans were over the moon and full of praise for their new manager.

The following extracts are taken from Gills Connect. Gillingham Fans Online, Kent Online, Football Forums & The Football Forum.


HerrLjunga wrote:
‘Massively impressed with this Martin Allen side, 15 minutes down to 10 men and still coming home with 3 points.’


Steve Treacle wrote:
‘Cracking result tonight. I honestly think that that may be one of our hardest games this season. Wycombe are a strong side at this level and easily equal to the over-rated Rotherham, Fleetwood and Oxford much touted by the bookies. So, in short, if we can beat Wycombe away, we are in good shape.’


GFC4EVA wrote:
‘Would have taken a point before the game so very pleased with all three.’


swanleygill wrote:
‘Wycombe to me are a very good team and tonight was a stunning result, especially as we didn’t play well 1st half and were down to 10 men with 15 minutes left. It’s been a while since the Gills would have held on to that result, full praise to Allen and team.’


twickers wrote:
‘Once Allen came on we definitely edged it. I felt we would go on to score a second until the sending off. We stayed pretty solid and wound the clock down after that. This team looks like it might have a bit of backbone!’


LeatherGill wrote:
‘Weston had a great game, pacy and troubled the Wycombe defence. Could easy have taken part in the Olympic 110 hurdles after a great run down the wing avoiding two challenges en route to unleashing a shot at the keeper!’


RainhamEndGills wrote:
‘Weston was brilliant. He has a lot of pace, never stopped running and looked a real threat.’


swansgills888 wrote:
‘I love the way Martin Allen conducts himself on and off the pitch. I feel a real deep sense of pride and optimism about this season, something I haven’t felt since the Tony Pulis and Peter Taylor era. We have a decent squad this season and our bench is strong too. The recent signings of Barrett and Weston, both of whom I rate, have cemented my opinion about our intentions this season and how good Allen is as manager.’


shotshy wrote:
‘That result shows the strength of the squad. How many teams at this level can win a game, make five changes to the team, and win again, away from home?’


cornishpete wrote:
‘Get a proper manager in and hey presto.’


statotheblue wrote:
‘I am happy to say I was wrong when not putting Martin Allen top of my wish list. He has lifted the whole club.’


Gills123 wrote:
‘Never wanted him as manager. Thought he was the poor man’s choice. But never have I known a manager to make such a huge positive impact so quickly. From the moment he had them in the strand pool I began to believe in him. Martin Allen’s Barmy Army!’


obamarama_gfc wrote:
‘I want to say thanks to the Wycombe lot. It takes a classy club to arrange a minute’s applause for the president of the Gills independent supporters club who passed away in July. Thank you, and good luck for the rest of the season.’


Next Game: Wycombe v Bristol Rovers – Sat 25th Aug – 3.00pm