GILLINGHAM boss Mark Stimson has conceded for the first time that his side are in a relegation dogfight.

The Gills slipped to 19th place following Saturday’s 2-1 League 1 defeat at Oldham and remain just two points above the four relegation spots.

With 16 matches to be played, there are still plenty of points up for grabs but Stimson hopes his players realise their dilemma sooner rather than later.

Stimson said: “I’ve asked the players to think about what they want and make sure we can look forward because that result has put us in a sticky position.

“What sort of position do they want to be in the league? I don’t want to be fighting relegation – I’ve had to mention that word for the first time because, if we don’t, people might not catch on and it will be too late.”

The Oldham defeat made it six league games without a win for Gillingham – the worst run of results since Stimson took over at the start of November.

“This has got to be the lowest point of the season so far for me because I always thought in the next game we would get a win,” said Stimson.

“After drawing our last game, I thought it would be the start of a winning run but it was not to be. The only way to go forward is to roll your sleeves up, give everything you’ve got, be honest and stand up and be counted – that’s what’s needed.”