Chesterfield v Gillingham
Sky Bet League 2
SMH Group Stadium
Sunday January 5, 2025
Kick-Off, 3pm (pitch inspection at 0745)
Team News:
Bradley Dack could return to the starting XI after sitting out Thursday's game at home to Bromley. Conor Masterson is unlikely to be risked, but Aaron Rowe (knee) could make the travelling party. Oli Hawkins remains unavailable for selection.
Joe Gbode will look to start, with Harry Webster also available if required.
As for Chesterfield, they have several injury issues with experienced attackers Will Grigg and Paddy Madden likely to sit out alongside defender Chey Dunkley.
Kane Drummond should again lead the line with plenty of support from the likes of Dilan Markanday, Armando Dobra and James Berry.
Behind them, former Gills midfielder Darren Oldaker will continue to play a key role in the midfield, while Tom Naylor and Jamie Grimes are set to be the central defensive partners.
Manager Comments:
Paul Cook - “We are 10th in the league and there is loads of football to play and our club is in a great place. Our fan-base is solid and away support is great and we have got two fantastic owners so let’s see what the season can bring.”
Mark Bonner - "There should be an expectation that we are a better team.
"We certainly are capable of being a better team than we are at the moment."
Previous Meetings:
The two clubs have met on 71 previous occasions and Gillingham hold the edge in terms of the head-to-head statistics with 31 wins to 23.
The last fixture to take place was the reverse league game in August 2024. On that day, Gills won 1-0 thanks to an early goal from Robbie McKenzie at Priestfield. Max Ehmer was dismissed on the hour, but the hosts held out for maximum points.
The most recent game at the SMH Group Stadium was in September 2016. The game finished 3-3, with Jay Emmanuel-Thomas netting twice, with Scott Wagstaff bagging an equalizer in stoppage time.
Tickets:
Please be aware that a pitch inspection will be taking place at 0745 to determine whether the pitch is playable. A yellow weather warning has been issued and snow is expected to fall in the region.
If the game goes ahead, fans can buy on the day via the link embedded in the below picture. However please note that a £2 price increase will apply. Away fans are to purchase in Block E1.
How to watch / listen:
This game will not be streamed on Sky Sports +, however audio passes will be available for £2.50 by clicking here. Overseas supporters will be able to purchase a video pass for £10. Click here to get yours.
Short highlights will be uploaded to YouTube a couple of hours following the full-time whistle. Our social media channels will provide live text commentary.
Officials:
Referee: Stephen Parkinson
Assistants: Conor Brown and Oliver Bickle
Fourth Official: Mark Cunliffe
SAT NAV: S41 8NZ
