Wayne expecting 'competitive' Gillingham test

Our Development Squad returns to Checkatrade Trophy action when we face Gillingham at The Valley this evening (Tuesday, 7.45pm).

Wayne Burnett’s side earned a creditable 1-1 draw against Crawley Town in their opening group game before going down 5-3 on penalties and the coach is optimistic we can display similar spirit when we take on League One outfit Gillingham at Charlton Athletic’s stadium.

“The first game was a competitive game,” he said. “We deserved at least a draw and could have won it. It was a good test for our players and one that they came through very well. The penalties didn’t go our way but it was a good performance and hopefully we can put in a similar performance against Gillingham.”

The Gills are spending their sixth consecutive season in League One but have endured a difficult start to the campaign and currently sit 19th in the table. Their form has picked up recently, however, with four points from their last two games, including a stunning 2-0 win away to league leaders Portsmouth on Saturday.

“It will be very competitive,” said Wayne. “We’ve watched them on numerous occasions and know they have some very good players. It will be another good test for our players and it will show us a lot about the group, the personality and character that we have. Gillingham had a very good result against Portsmouth at the weekend and we’ll be under no illusions about how difficult the game is going to be.”

Wayne is also keen to reiterate how invaluable an experience this competition is for our young players, as they take on seasoned professionals and try to adapt to unfamiliar styles of play.

“The players know it is different to our league games,” he said. “It’s competitive and time on the ball is reduced because they make it difficult to play. It’s something that the players should be looking forward to – a test of their ability, competitiveness, willingness and desire. It will be tough because Gillingham’s players have league experience but hopefully we can overcome anything that is put in front of us, like we did against Crawley.

“It’s a platform for the players to go and express themselves and demonstrate their capabilities. It will be a test of character and that’s what football is about. Sometimes it’s not going to be about playing the type of football that we’re used to playing or want to play. Whatever Gillingham put in front of us, we have to find a way. That is what good footballers and good teams do.”

Our young left-back Connor Ogilvie, who is on loan at Gillingham again this season, will not feature for our opponents tonight under the terms of his loan agreement. The 22-year-old has made two appearances this term but missed the Gills’ last two matches with an ankle injury.