Sunderland 2 Gillingham 1

GILLINGHAM'S first visit to Sunderland's Stadium of Light ended in a defeat that keeps the club teetering on the brink of the Nationwide League, Division 1, relegation zone.

Darren Byfield's 53rd minute goal, when he took advantage of a misunderstanding between Patrick Agyemang and Kevin James, condemned Gillingham to a 17th League defeat.

Sean Thornton's 11th minute well-executed free kick gave Sunderland the lead.

Gillingham battled back and drew level in the 28th minute when Agyemang chested a Nicky Southall cross over the goalline.

After Byfield had restored his side's lead, Sunderland went close to adding a third when the ball struck the underside of the crossbar in a goalmouth scramble.

Goalkeeper Steve Banks did well to recover and take possession.

Gillingham's injury woes show no sign of easing as centre-back Leon Johnson finished the match limping badly and is already doubtful for Saturday's trip to West Ham.

Attendance: 23,262