Gills assistant manager David Kerslake spoke to the media following Gillingham's 1-1 draw with Charlton on Saturday
Assistant manager David Kerslake believed the Gills deserved more from Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Charlton Athletic at the MEMS Priestfield Stadium after dominating the opening hour of play.
Bradley Dack opened the scoring against his former club on 41 minutes, before sub goalkeeper Stuart Nelson saved Ricky Holmes’ penalty in a Man of the Match-display.
Nicky Ajose finally beat Nelson from a second Charlton spot-kick in the 90th-minute, ensuring both teams left the pitch with a point.
Kerslake on…the result: “We were outstanding first half and the first 15 minutes of the second half.
“We were well on top and they rarely entered our half, but unfortunately, as of late, we weren’t able to see the game out and we have paid for it again.
“It was a really strong performance. I thought we looked like a good unit, athletic, aggressive, and that’s what the manager has been telling the players in recent weeks. That’s how we dig ourselves out of the issue we are in at the minute.”
Kerslake on… the goalkeepers: “After Stuart Nelson’s performance this afternoon, the manager is going to have to think long and hard look at it [future team selection]. They [Nelson and loanee Jonathan Bond, who went off injured after 30 minutes] are both very good goalkeepers, and on Nelson’s performance today, he has pushed himself right on the forefront [for selection]”
Kerslake on… the team selection: “It wasn’t a risk [playing three in attack] as they’re all good players. We knew they would give us a physical presence, and Charlton are quite a physical side themselves, so we had to match that. I thought the players who came in were outstanding.”
Kerslake on… the league table: “All we are interested in is giving ourselves a platform to go on a run of consecutive wins, or not being defeated, and the rest will take care of itself.”
Kerslake on… the fans: “The fans were magnificent today, and were really behind the players all the way. They’ve shown as much frustration as us.
“They want to see blood and thunder, and the team giving sweat and blood for the shirt.”
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