GILLINGHAM chairman Paul Scally has spoken of his relief after watching his side secure their Division 1 status at Stoke.

He said: “It was definitely not one for the faint-hearted. Everyone’s emotionally drained; I don’t think it has sunk in yet.

He stressed: “It’s been a horrible year with injuries and financial problems. I’ve never experienced anything like it in nine years and I hope never to again, that’s for sure.

“I think the best is yet to come for this team. We’ve all had a taste of relegation now and none of us like it. Next season will be completely different.”

There was a massive pat on the back for his player-manager Andy Hessenthaler. Mr Scally said: “He’s irreplaceable, simple as that, as a person, as a character, as a personality and as a footballer. He went with an experienced side and they all worked their socks off. It’s a huge pressure off our shoulders.

“Stoke looked dangerous every time they attacked and they really went for it. There was a lot of people out there who wanted us to go down today, which is a bit sad.

“The lads are drained, but they can all go away on holiday now and look forward to playing Leeds, Leicester and the like in Division 1 next season.“

Mr Scally continued: “There’s always been a great spirit at this club and it was needed today. It was very nervy in the first half.

“They had nothing to lose and we had everything to lose. Our fans played their part today and were fabulous. Whenever anything happened at Walsall we knew about it, but you have to feel for them as they gave it a real go."

Gillingham coach Wayne Jones told Km-fm about the tension during Sunday's game...