Tenacious midfielder hoping the performance at stadium:mk will give Gills something to build on.
Watford loanee Dan Phillips was happy with the collective performance in Gillingham’s 0-0 draw at MK Dons on New Year’s Day.
The whole team, including Phillips, who was voted "Man of the Match," put in a solid display for 90 minutes away from home as Steve Evans' men battled to come away with a well-deserved point.
It was the club’s first game in three weeks, and the midfielder realised just how hard his teammates fought. He believes that it can be a building block going forward.
“It was a massive performance from us," he said. "I thought that we dug in deep and got through it. I’m very happy with the point and clean sheet.
“It’s a great way to start the year and a place to push on from.”
MK Dons had plenty of possession and put the Gills under lots of pressure at times but could only muster three shots on target.
Phillips credited how Gills stood firm to prevent their hosts from creating anything overly significant.
“They had a lot of the ball, but I felt like we limited them. They didn’t have many clear-cut chances, so we deserved the clean sheet.”
With Vadaine Oliver just returning from injury, it meant that his day was called short just after the hour. That saw an unlikely name step up to lead the line.
Robbie McKenzie answered that call and led the attack for the final 30 minutes, and Phillips was more than impressed by the man that can play anywhere.
“Robbie can play anywhere to be honest. I’ve seen him play right-back, centre-back, left-back, in the ten, and now striker! I thought he did a great job when he went up there. He won a lot of headers, and he chased everything.”
Gills were backed by 420 supporters that made the trip to Milton Keynes, and Phillips was delighted to reward them for their fantastic backing.
“It was brilliant support from the fans, as always. I think that we gave them something to be proud of and something they deserve to see after the run of tough games.
“Hopefully, we can give them more to be proud of.”