Brandon Hanlan speaks to the press after Gills record crucial victory.
Brandon Hanlan was thrilled to return to winning ways as he put in a man-of-the-match performance to help the Gills move out of the relegation zone with a 1-0 victory over Scunthorpe United.
Mark Byrne’s strike midway through the first half proved to be difference as the Gills defence held firm to secure a crucial three points against a resurgent Iron side, as they sealed a first home league victory of 2019.
Speaking after the game, Hanlan said: “The changing room is upbeat, everyone is buzzing with the result, and it is just what we needed. We’re happy to get the three points and push up the table too, we are looking forward to Tuesday now.
"Every game you have to go in to it with a level head, and try not to overthink the game, from Tomas to Eavesy up top, I think everyone gave everything they had, and I thought that everyone put a great shift in."
Gillingham welcomed Billy Bingham and new signing Leo Da Silva Lopes in to the starting eleven as Steve Lovell shuffled the pack for the visit of Scunthorpe, and Hanlan believes the new additions played a crucial role in helping the side to three points.
“Billy did very well and looked comfortable on the ball. He was just what we needed in midfield. Leo (Da Silva Lopes) was good too, he got Byrner the assist and he is a great asset to this team. It’s promising.”
Speaking on his own performance, Hanlan was pleased to pick up the man-of-the-match award for the second home game in the last three and he knows the goals are coming.
“I feel like I did well today," he said. "Every time I go on the pitch, I try to give 100% which I did today. I would love to score some goals, but I have to be patient and then I’m sure they will come. I know that I need to keep doing the right things and keep working hard then and if I do that, the goals will start."
The three points moved the Gills out of the bottom four and took them three points clear of the relegation places. Hanlan believes the psychological encouragement that it gives the team will benefit them ahead of a tough trip to Sunderland on Tuesday.
He said: "It’s a massive boost to be out of the relegation zone, the changing room is positive, training will be positive, and hopefully we can take that in to next week. I’m buzzing for Tuesday, it will be the first time I’ve played there. Anyone can beat anyone in this league and we have to try and come back home with something.”