Gillingham v Oldham Athletic
Priestfield, 3pm kick-off
By David Pritchard
Following a run of games against League One’s leading lights, Gillingham begin a critical phase of their season at home to Oldham Athletic this afternoon.
The game against the Latics marks the start of an 11-game sequence up to January where the Gills face eight teams alongside them in the bottom half.
Manager Mark Stimson agrees after glamour trips to the likes of Leeds and Southampton, ultimately the club’s fate rests on games against the likes of Oldham.
He said: “It’s a very important part of the season. We’re playing teams in and around us and it would be great if we could get off to a good start [against Oldham].
“A couple of wins and you’re right up there, but a couple of defeats and you’re right in amongst it. It’s an important time before Christmas, we’ve got to focus. Forget about the Christmas spirit, the only way we’ll have a good Christmas is if we’re sitting mid-table.”
Oldham have an excellent recent record against Gillingham but arrive on a run of just one win from their last six games. The Gills’ resounding 3-0 FA Cup win against Southend a week ago was their first win in four but have an impressive record at Priestfield, losing only once in the league this season.
Stimson must make two enforced changes to his side from last weekend. Top scorer Simeon Jackson is away on international duty with Canada, while captain Barry Fuller is serving a one-game suspension.
Despite the Gills’ small squad there are plenty of options in both positions. Up front on-loan Febian Brandy is a certain starter and could be partnered by Dennis Oli or the fit-again Mark McCammon, who scored two goals in a friendly against Dagenham in midweek.
Stuart Lewis and Chris Palmer are both contenders for Fuller’s right-back slot, but Stimson may be reluctant to move them after last Saturday’s winning performance. Instead he could opt to play teenager Jack Payne, a midfielder by trade but he has featured at full-back for the reserves.
Mark Bentley will captain the side in Fuller’s absence, as he has done in the past.
The midfielder said: “I’m looking forward to it. To be captain does mean something, it’s a good honour and it’ll be great to lead the boys out.”
For the latest team news, updates and reaction from Priestfield, log on to www.kentnews.co.uk from 2pm.
POSTED: 14/11/2009 10:00:00
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