Gillingham's Charlie Lee challenges for the ball against Ebbsfleet at Stonebridge Road Picture: Steve Crispe

By Luke Cawdell

Gillingham manager Martin Allen was left purring over his team’s first half display at Ebbsfleet.

The second half didn’t live up to the first, as the Gills conceded twice, but they still emerged 3-2 winners on Saturday to please Allen.

"At half-time I didn’t really say much (to the players) except how proud I was about how they played," said Allen.

"I asked John Schofield (assistant manager) if he had a mobile phone so we could call the fire brigade because we were on fire! All the lads laughed and I just told them they were absolutely fantastic.

"It was brilliant to watch. I sat in the stand and I loved it, every second of it. It was great. You do all the work throughout the week and it had all come together like that, so quickly."

The Gills had more of a game on their hands in the second half, as the Fleet fought back.

"We started the second half a little bit slower," admitted Allen. "I wanted them to match the tempo that we played in the first half by passing quicker.

"We managed to get it back again, which was very good and testament to the players’ character and strength of mind that they can get it back. I thought the second half was a test.

"The players have been very receptive with what we have been trying to achieve and that football in the first half was good to watch."

For eight of the Gills players it was their first 90 minutes of action since returning to pre-season. "Perhaps you could expect them to be a little but fatigued but overall it was very good," said Allen.

Who were your stand-out players for Gillingham against Ebbsfleet? Have your say below.