Stuart Nelson played a major part in Gillingham’s win over Colchester on Boxing Day.

And boss Peter Taylor was quick to praise the goalie for his effort.

“Fair play to Stuart Nelson, he pulled off a couple of brilliant saves,” said the Gills manager.

Nelson’s best save of the afternoon came in the 90 minute when he got down low to palm away Freddie Sears’ shot.

He had already thwarted the U’s on several occasions and denied livewire attacker Gavin Massey in the first half, tipping his powerful effort over the bar.

Taylor said: “Stuart has done ever so well for this football club.

“He’s a great shot-stopper. I thought the first half was an easier one, but the one in the second half, low down, was a really good save.

“Stuart has done well and I am sure he will be pleased with that.

“After the Port Vale game (where Nelson conceded late on in a 2-2 draw), he was disappointed with things. That would have cheered him up a lot.”

Nelson was playing at the same ground where he scored the winning penalty in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy match back in October.

“He got us out of a bit of trouble and we’re delighted for him,” added team-mate Joe Martin.