Steve Lovell a proud man as he sees Gillingham win for the first ever time away at Charlton.
Gillingham Manager Steve Lovell was thrilled to see his side cling on to record a famous 2-1 victory at The Valley against Charlton Athletic. It marked the first league double of the season for the Gills, and the perfect start to 2018.
Josh Parker slotted home at the far post and Tom Eaves slid another cross into the net to give Gillingham a two goal advantage at half time. Charlton piled on the pressure in the second period and netted through a Joe Aribo header but the Gills resisted their attacks to claim victory.
Lovell was delighted with the work-rate of his players who were out on their feet by the final whistle and paid credit to their desire in securing the Club a historic win.
“I’m very proud of the boys. The boys have done great and it’s a great result. It was backs against the wall in the second half but the work we did in the first half was enough to win the game.
“They gave everything and at the end they were out on their feet. That’s what the game is all about, that’s what they get paid to do and if they don’t they will be out of the team.
“The first half we had a game-plan – we knew if we turned the ball over quickly we could get them on the counter attack.
“It’s nice when you have the travelling support come in numbers, and put on a performance for them.”
Lovell singled out Lee Martin for special praise as the skipper played through illness to deliver an impressive display against the Addicks, while Tom Eaves also earned the plaudits from the gaffer.
“I would never drop Lee Martin because he’s a great character to have in the team.
“He’s about 75% fit but he wanted to play, got up there and gave everything but he just ran out of gas at the end.
“Tom [Eaves] works his socks off and you can’t knock him."
Finally, Lovell was looking forward to a weekend off allowing his players a rest and a chance to bring in reinforcements in the January transfer window.
“We’ve had a good Christmas. Every club looks towards 50 points to be safe and that will be our first incentive.
“It’s important that we keep the momentum going. We haven’t lost too many in the league recently but there’s a long way to go. You can have a couple of defeats and you’re back in it again.
“We have a chance now to do a bit of business. If we can get two or three it will strengthen competition for places and that is so important at the Club. It will be nice to bring in a couple of more experienced lads in.”