Gills head coach Ady Pennock speaks to the press ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet League One fixture against Port Vale
Buoyed by draws against promotion-chasing Sheffield United and Bradford City, Ady Pennock believes his first victory as Gillingham head coach is within touching distance as his side prepare to play Port Vale at the MEMS Priestfield Stadium on Saturday.
In his press conference on Thursday morning, Pennock also spoke about the importance of keeping clean sheets and what he expects of this weekend's opposition.
Pennock on…winning matches: “It’s always important to win. They’re all big games, as we know.
"We have two big games on Saturday [against Port Vale] and Tuesday [versus Chesterfield], and hopefully we will get that win which everyone is striving towards. It [Pennock's first victory as head coach] isn’t too far away.”
Pennock on…the defence: “Clean sheets win you games. Look at any league up and down the country; if you keep conceding goals it’s difficult to win. Look at last weekend [against Bradford City]: we conceded two goals and needed to score three to win.
“It is very important that we start getting clean sheets, and that’s what we have been working on in training. The players have to throw their bodies on the line, like they have done for the past three weeks, but we also need that little bit of luck."
Pennock on…Port Vale: “They lost 3-0 last week to Peterborough, but they were unlucky and conceded two late goals when chasing the game.
“They work every hard for each other and they have some good players in their side, but I am concentrating on us. We’re at home, so it’s important that we get that clean sheet, score goals and get that first win.”
Pennock on…his squad: “It’s no coincidence that since we came here we haven't had many muscle injuries, because the players are getting fitter and stronger.
“Football isn’t rocket science and there are no excuses. Everyone knows their roles individually and collectively. I like our [4-4-1-1] formation, and I think we are getting there.
“I have been very pleased with the players. They have togetherness, plus the hunger and desire to do well.”
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