Gaffer ranks Scunthorpe win as best of season after superb team performance.
Gillingham Manager Steve Lovell was left delighted with the performance of his team against Scunthorpe after some great attacking football saw the visitors take all three points back to Kent in a 2-0 win at Glanford Park.
The Gills dominated the game, but were forced into the break at level pegging. However, great strikes from Tom Eaves and Dean Parrett in the second-half won the game with Eaves also missing a late penalty to make the margin of the win more comfortable.
The performance of the front three performance – Elliott List, Tom Eaves and Josh Parker – left the Gaffer purring, who praised the team’s work rate and quality on the ball.
“We didn’t allow them to play, and when we had the ball we used it and created I don’t know how many chances but we had loads and loads of efforts on goal.
“The [front] three caused havoc for their defence. It was incredible really. I have got to say a word on Josh Parker, because that was him at his best today.
“The midfield behind them were fantastic, their work rate was brilliant. The fitness of the boys was tremendous and all credit to James and Gary at the Club.
“Mark Byrne: he must have Duracell in him! In the last minute he’s run 70 yards with the ball into the corner flag, sprinting down the line.
“We thoroughly deserved the win.”
Lovell was asked whether he considered it the best win of the season compared to the Pompey win, and the answer was a resounding yes.
“As an overall performance, I think yes [it was the best performance of the season]. It could have been four, five, six.
“It was more of a smash and grab down at Portsmouth, but this one we were in control for the full 90 minutes.
“It was one of the best performances of the season from players wearing the Gillingham shirt. It was a great result – it could have been a lot more and I don’t think anybody in this ground could have complained.
Dean Parrett scored his first goal for the Club with a great volley and Lovell was thrilled that the Summer signing is now finding his feet for the Gills after a frustrating stop-start period at the start of the season.
“Dean has had his ups and downs this season with injury and fitness, but I signed him in the summer because I knew what a good footballer he is.
“We need people like him in the team.”
Finally Lovell revealed the reason why the Gills continue to wear their yellow socks with their home kit on the travels.
“It’s a strong colour. When you’re running in them, you’re more likely to see them than a pair of blue socks!
“I’m very superstitious but I think it looks good, so they’re in!”