Gills Master Magpies as Kent outfit claim spoils
STUART Maynard said he understood the defensive problems of his side after they dropped out of the play-off places for the first time since August.
A catalogue of defensive errors caused Notts County’s downfall in a frustrating encounter, something Maynard said he was keen to address.
“Some of the defending of our box was really poor,” he said. “We know it. Collectively it was not good enough. The goals we conceded were frustrating for the fans and for us, but we knew that defending our box was an issue.
“It’s something we have to go back to the training ground and continue to work on.”
The Magpies dropped out of the play-off places on Friday evening, ahead of the weekend’s fixtures, and Maynard insisted the aim of reaching the top seven remained despite recent form.
“Of course, the aim is the play-offs. We understand the situation we are in.”
And it was Gillingham who leapfrogged the Pies into the play-off positions after their victory at Meadow Lane.
The hosts had taken the lead early on when Dan Crowley took aim from outside the area and curled the ball in off the post, assisted by Jodi Jones who now holds the record for the most assists in a
League Two season. The Gills responded seven minutes later when Conor Masterson was given time to cross the ball into the area for Oli Hawkins to head beyond Aidan Stone.
The visitors went into the break in front when Clark was picked out at the back post, producing a brilliant first-time finish with the outside of his foot.
Gillingham increased their lead eight minutes after the restart as County failed to clear a corner, allowing Masterson to stoop low and head home.
Gills boss Stephen Clemence said he was thrilled with his side’s performance. “I think it had to be a different performance – we have had the ball more in certain games but today we had to really dig in and get our tactics spot on.
“Notts County are a very good team and we knew that – but you stay disciplined.”
He added: “I am proud of the boys but it’s one win, that is all it is. We have to go and get another one on Tuesday.
“The boys know they’re in a game now. I can see it in their eyes. I had my doubts when I first came in to the club, but I haven’t now.
“I have men that are doing everything for this football club and long may that continue.”