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Manager Andy Hessenthaler says Gillingham are not out of the race for automatic promotion from League 2

08:15, 11 April 2011

updated: 08:15, 11 April 2011

Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler
Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler

Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler has warned his team will not give up lightly on their League 2 promotion push.

The Gills responded in perfect fashion to the goalless draw with lowly Hereford by thrashing Lincoln City 4-0 on Saturday.

Having told his players to relax and enjoy their football, Hessenthaler’s men certainly played with a swagger at Lincoln to answer those who were questioning their promotion credentials.

"I don’t think you should doubt us," said Hessenthaler (pictured).

"Stick with us and keep believing – that’s what we have in the dressing room.

"Don’t write us off. People might have written us off last week after not getting a win at home but it has been a fantastic achievement to go 15 games unbeaten and a lot of clubs would like that at this time of the season."

The Gills boss added: "Every game is different and we have to be able to overcome teams like Hereford more.

"There is nothing to lose, let’s just go for it. We have worked so hard to get into this position so we don’t want to throw it all away now, because the season will fizzle out. There is no pressure – we can go and enjoy it."

Goal difference could yet play a key role in the promotion battle, something that has been crucial in Gillingham’s recent history.

On Saturday the goals helped lift them over Accrington and back into the final play-off spot with five games to go.

"That puts us on plus 15 (goal difference) so I was pleased," said Hessenthaler.

"It’s going to go right down to the wire and we still have one eye on that top three, without a doubt.

"We do believe that is feasible and until it is not, we still have a chance."

Hessenthaler dropped Garry Richards and Jack Payne at the weekend to freshen things up and admitted those missing out are hurting.

"They were really disappointed but that’s why I am the manager," he said.

"I have to make decisions, right ones and wrong ones, whatever they may be. I just felt we needed to do something different.

"It’s about a squad and we need all of these players until the end of the season."

What do you think of Gills' promotion chances? Have your say below.

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