Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth has warned his players of a tough video analysis session after their poor start in the 2-2 draw at Bromley.
The Gills conceded twice in the opening 12 minutes at Hayes Lane before mounting a spirited fightback to rescue a point, but Ainsworth admitted the early collapse left him “shell-shocked.”
Early Setback
Bromley struck first through Nicke Kabamba after just seven minutes, with Michael Cheek doubling the lead shortly afterwards. The home side dominated the early stages, with Cheek causing constant problems for the Gillingham defence.
Ainsworth, who took charge in the summer, acknowledged his team were flustered and said even veteran goalkeeper Glenn Morris looked unsettled during the chaotic opening spell.
“We’ve got to sort that first 20 minutes out,” said Ainsworth. “The video review could be a little bit nasty. We’ll show the mistakes, but also the confidence you must have to come back away at Bromley, a team that are right up there.”
The Gills had been solid defensively prior to Saturday, conceding only three goals in their first six league fixtures, making the early setback in south London all the more surprising. Ainsworth admitted his side needed to weather the storm more effectively and remain composed when under pressure.
Resilient Fightback
Despite the nightmare start, Gillingham regrouped and struck back to level the match. Ainsworth said his approach at half-time was calm, focusing on tactical adjustments rather than frustration, and praised his players for executing the game plan.
“I think in the early days of my managerial career I may have gone in ranting and raving but it was all calm,” he added. “It was about how we get out of it and what would hurt Bromley. The boys did it to a T.”
Although he admitted the team could have done more to win the game, Ainsworth was ultimately satisfied to leave with a point given the circumstances. Attention now turns to next weekend’s clash with Notts County, another side showing signs of progress in the early stages of the campaign.
Writer’s View
Gillingham’s slow start will worry Ainsworth, particularly given the defensive solidity they had shown in previous matches. However, the character displayed to recover from two goals down away from home offers encouragement.
The balance between addressing errors and building belief will be key as the Gills aim to push up the table. If they can eradicate those shaky opening spells, their resilience suggests they will remain competitive against the stronger sides in the division.
