GILLINGHAM coach Richard Hill launched a vigorous defence of player-manager Andy Hessenthaler after the crowd turned on him following Saturday’s dismissal in the 1-1 home draw with Sheffield Wednesday.

Many Gills fans blamed Hessenthaler's 80th minute departure following a second yellow card for struggling Wednesday plundering an unexpected point with a 90th minute equaliser.

Failure to win dropped Gillingham to 15th and some fans were quick to vent their frustration on the dejected Gills boss who is suspended for the visit of Stoke on November 30.

Hill, who took the after-match press conference in Hessenthaler's absence, revealed: “Andy has apologised to the dressing room. He said that with his experience he shouldn’t have done it and he's let everybody down. But that does not alter the fact of what he’s done for Gillingham Football Club over the years. Don't castigate him for one thing.

He stressed: “He's bought a lot of enjoyment to a lot of people who watch Gillingham and worked hard in the six years he's been at the club.

“He’s a tireless worker and don't let anyone lose sight of the fact that he's doing two jobs. Yes, he probably was a bit impetuous but that's the gaffer."