Gaffer | "We are really disappointed"

Gills boss left frustrated as controversial early penalty proves pivotal at Highbury.

Steve Evans said the team were left very disappointed after the award of a controversial early penalty for Fleetwood at Highbury proved pivotal on Tuesday night.

Referee Marc Edwards pointed to the spot in the first minute after believing contact on Ged Garner was enough to warrant a penalty.

Kyle Vassell converted the spot kick, and it proved vital as Fleetwood held on to secure maximum points, despite a spirited fightback from Gills in the second period.

Speaking after the game, the manager said: "I thought in the first half we were poor. I don’t think they were any better, but they get a penalty inside 45 seconds. It simply isn't a penalty. Just watch the decision; I have spoken to the Head of Referees.

“We were not at it in the first half, we were poor.

“In the second half we certainly deserved to equalize. We gave away a couple of sloppy things near the end when we were chasing.

“We are really disappointed, it was a big chance to come here and win. It makes things hard for us now; we need to give other players a chance.

“For me it's a poor game. I think we played poorly and I don’t think Simon [Grayson] will think his side has played well, but they get the win. It’s about winning and points accumulation.”