GILLINGHAM failed to pick up their first home victory since August as they went down against Coventry City at the Priestfield this afternoon.

Andy Hessenthaler's side will have few complaints with the result after being outplayed for long periods of play.

After a tight opening half an hour, Coventry began to take control of the game with Richie Patridge and Lee Mills going close at the end of the first period.

But the visitors didn't have to wait too long for the opening strike as Jay Bothroyd, who had come off the bench to replace Gary McSheffrey on 17 minutes, made no mistake with a cool finish 60 seconds after the re-start.

City made it 2-0 six minutes later when Barry Quinn volleyed in at the far post after a clever cross from Partridge.

Gills rarely threatened to get back into the game although Guy Ipoua had one effort well-saved by Coventry goalkeeper Fabien Debec mid-way through the half. But the home team were well beaten in the end.