Gillingham 0 Oldham 0

GILLINGHAM held Oldham to a goalless draw at Priestfield despite playing half the match with 10 men.

With seven minutes of the first period remaining keeper Simon Royce was sent-off after handling Neal Eardley's long ball forward outside the area.

Prior to that, Oldham had come close to opening the scoring in the early stages, when Craig Davies' shot smacked the Gills post.

Gillingham introduced sub keeper Derek Stillie for Crofts after Royce headed for an early shower and the hosts held on until half-time.

The Gills were twice denied a penalty in the second half, first when Luis Cumbers was bundled over and then Mulligan was dragged down in the area. Referee Iain Williamson waved away the protests on both occasions.

Oldham striker Davies hit the post again, this time with a header, then the same player blazed a great chance over from two yards in the final minute.

Gillingham manager Mark Stimson was pleased with the point after seeing several decisions go against his side.

"We knew before the game that it was going to be difficult because Oldham have done really well on their travels," he said. "The players said at half time we should have had a certain penalty and in the 35th minute we unfortunately had Simon Royce sent off.

"My first reaction was that was the only decision he got right and he had to go. The boys gave absolutely everything and that's all I can ask of them.

"I ask them to play for the club, play with their hearts and that's what they have done."

Gillingham: Royce, Southall, Nutter, Crofts (Stillie 39mins), Cox, Bygrave, Miller, Bentley, Mulligan, Cumbers (Griffiths 71mins), Thurgood.

Subs Not Used: Facey, Clohessy, Cogan.

Attendance: 4,402.