Steve Evans delivers his reaction as Gills extend their unbeaten league run to 13 matches.
Gillingham manager Steve Evans was pleased with the improvement of his side in the second half of their 2-1 victory over Doncaster Rovers at MEMS Priestfield Stadium on Saturday.
The Gills found themselves a goal down early on after a fine strike from Ben Sheaf, but the game changed after a red card for Feji Okenabirhie for an elbow on Barry Fuller.
Tommy O’Connor’s corner somehow snuck in at the near post just before half-time, before an own goal from Cameron John secured the three points for the hosts.
Evans said: “It was a performance of two halves. I thought in the first half we weren’t so good but I think in the second half we were very good. I don’t think by any stretch that they dominated. They had a wonderful strike from a really talented kid to put them in front, but it’s not so good organisation wise from us.
“I thought in the second half we were very good. I thought, though the stadium is called Priestfield, people were telling me it’s nicknamed the home of the shouting men. Well, the players come out to a wonderful reception from the Rainham End, who are just getting better and better every week.”
The Gills boss felt that the red card was a key turning point in the game, but thought the referee made the right decision. He said: “There are a couple of factors in the game. I think the red card has an impact, it has happened three yards in front of us, he’s had a look and then puts his elbow right in Barry’s chops. I think Darren (Moore) knew right away. That changed factors as we could spread play more and that’s how we’ve got the winning goal.”
The Gillingham manager was happy with the work rate of his players, who also put in a strong performance over the 90 minutes against Blackpool in midweek. Evans said: “I’m just so proud of the players. There were players running on empty, to get us a good win. Doncaster are a good side with good players, and a good manager, so we will take the win but we will need to be a lot better on Tuesday for sure.”