GILLINGHAM’S defence tonight stands ready to combat the best attacking double act in the Nationwide League, Division 1 when Wimbledon visit to Priestfield.

The 32 goals that David Connolly and Neil Shipperley have scored between them make them the most potent twin spearhead in the country.

Connolly, a Republic of Ireland World Cup international, has scored all 16 of his goals in the League, while Shipperley's 16 are made up of 12 in the league and four in cup competitions.

Gillingham central defender Chris Hope needs no convincing of the threat posed by the duo. He said: “To have one striker well into double figures is good but to have two is terrific.

“We all know how good these two are together. I would go as far as to say they are the best double act in the country because their record speaks for itself."

Gillingham go into the game five points off a play-off place with two games in hand over their rivals. Manager Andy Hessenthaler is likely to stick with the side that beat Grimsby with Guy Ipoua preferred to Mamady Sidibe up front.

Midfielder Mark Saunders, who has missed the last three games with hamstring trouble, is likely to be fit for Saturday’s match away to leaders Portsmouth who retained pole position with last night’s 1-1 draw at Leicester.