Gillingham fight for possession against Charlton at The Valley Picture: Barry Goodwin

Gillingham’s under-18 side were beaten by rivals Charlton on Tuesday night in the first round of the FA Youth Cup.

First team player Jack Payne was named in the team for the match at The Valley but Charlton proved too strong on the night.

The hosts scored the opening goal just three minutes into the match when Liam Bellamy’s deflected shot left keeper Conor Quinn stranded.

Charlton doubled the lead midway through the half when Harry Pell scored from distance.

Before the break Josh Sargeant had a powerful shot saved and Payne missed a great opportunity from close range.

The third goal came four minutes into the second half when Lewis Perkins was put in through the defence and he curled a shot past Quinn.

Charlton keeper Jack Binks saved well from Callum Davies and Payne to deny Gillingham any consolation.

Gills: Quinn, Evans, Brown, Payne, Essam, Davies, Geering (Benniman 85mins), Rance, Murphy, Day, Sargeant (Humber 65mins). Subs not used: Hawkes, Brown, Brunt.

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