MELISSA GUTHRIE

(Rochester)

“Saturday’s game was all about hard work. Not one player showed a lack of heart. It was exactly the kind of football I’ve wanted to see. The first half was definitely the better of the two halves. With the introduction of subs, the injury to Matt Lawrence, and the change in referee due to injury, the second half was a little disjointed.

“It was good to see Curtis Weston returning to form and willing to put in a foot. The back four were strong for all but the last few minutes of the game after Stockport scored.

“Cody McDonald (pictured right)definitely looks to become a true goalscorer in this league, and Jack Payne was his usual solid self, winning man-of-the-match.

“I also wanted to say well done to Kevin Maher and Mark McCammon. They’ve had their detractors, but they both put in excellent performances. Kevin Maher ran the midfield and had a pep in his step that I haven’t seen before. He looked like he gave everything he had. Mark McCammon wasn’t on for long, but he won headers and held up the ball well in the last third. He was able to do this despite the sarcastic cheers from the crowd every time he touched the ball that would have thrown anyone off their game.”

PAUL BLAKELEY

(Maidstone)

“That was the game everyone connected to the club needed, not only in the result but in the performance.

“We played very well and deserved to win the game, with many good performances on show. Confidence will play a massive part in our season as you could see them wilt after the Stockport goal. If we can keep the belief and play the nice, intelligent football we did in the first half we’ll do all right this season.

“Special mention must go to two outcasts - who I haven’t rated - Kevin Maher and Mark McCammon (pictured above), who both did well and played their part. Several candidates for man-of-the-match is always a good sign. What’s vital is this is built on next week in a tough match.”

STOCKPORT FAN

Ian Dooley

“Going behind so early took the wind out of our sails, but throughout the game I didn’t think the Gillingham defence was solid. It must say something that Anthony Pulis, son of Stoke boss and former Gills manager Tony, had
never scored a league goal until yesterday!

“The Accrington result showed us that the Gills defence is poor, but four goals away from home suggests the attack is good. Even so, I think it was an even game.

“After we went into administration last year, this time around I’d be happy with mid-table anonymity. As for Gillingham’s prospects this season, on the evidence of Saturday’s game I’d say they have no chance of automatic promotion.”