GILLINGHAM'S FA Youth Cup dream came to an end on Tuesday night but they did themselves proud before bowing out 2-1 at the hands of Blackburn Rovers.

The game was played in freezing conditions at Morecambe FC’s Christie Park, but the Gills youngsters put in an impressive performance.

Rovers dominated the first half but the Gills backline, led well by Luke Howell and marshalled superbly by captain and goalkeeper Danny Knowles, kept them at bay.

In first half stoppage time they were rewarded when winger Matthew Jarvis picked up the ball on halfway and beat five Rovers defenders before crossing from the byline for Akwasi Edusei to give his side the lead.

Jarvis was the most impressive Gills player on show on the night, with genuine pace and looking good on the ball.

Rovers launched a second half onslaught on Knowles’ goal and finally broke through with 18 minutes left thanks to a fine 35-yard free kick from Andrew Taylor.

And on 79 minutes the game was won when Joe Garner headed in from a corner to set up a quarter final tie with Manchester United.