PENNOCK: “IT WAS SPECIAL”

Gills head coach Ady Pennock spoke to the media following the dramatic victory over Scunthorpe United on Saturday

Gills head coach Ady Pennock described his side’s memorable comeback as ‘special’ following the Gills’ 3-2 victory over Scunthorpe United on Saturday. 

Josh Wright scored a hat-trick of second-half penalties to complete the turnaround after Paddy Madden and Harry Toffolo gave the Iron a 2-0 lead. The midfielder's trio was the first of his career. 

Pennock on… the turnaround: “It was pretty special. I thought we started the game really slow and I was disappointed with the goal we conceded. We went 2-0 down and I thought they [Scunthorpe] thoroughly deserved it, but then we showed the character that we have here.

“When we were 2-0 down I said one goal will change it, and it did. 

“I don’t think I’ve been involved in a game that has had three penalties before and I give Josh Wright a lot of credit. To take those three penalties the way he did was first class.”


Pennock on… the game: “It was one of those games that had everything against a very good side. They are very dangerous and had a lot of chance, but we had to hold our own. 

“I thought the subs that came on did very well [Josh Parker, Jake Hessenthaler and Emmanuel Osadebe]. I am pleased for everyone. The players’ character was fantastic and you can’t take that away from them. The atmosphere at the end was phenomenal.

“I want to be positive. We are going to enjoy the win tonight and then I’ll be in tomorrow and I’m looking forward to the game on Tuesday.”

Pennock on… Josh Wright: “I didn’t have any worries because he is in good form, and scoring goals for fun. I knew he would score all three because I’ve seen him take them before and he practises them in training. 

“However, I thought the yellow card after scoring a hat-trick in the whole atmosphere was very harsh.

“He will miss two games [through suspension] and he will be a big loss, but it is a squad game and everyone is ready.”

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