Gillingham’s management got the performance they were looking for on Saturday.

They might not have taken all three points against Charlton but the Gills did show some encouraging signs.

Assistant boss David Kerslake said: “It was a really strong performance, we looked a good unit, strong and aggressive.

“That is what the manager has been banging onto the players in recent weeks and that’s how we dig ourselves out of the issue we are in at the minute.

“It’s what they (the fans) want to see, blood and thunder and giving sweat and blood for the shirt. We are unbeaten in two now and we will go to Fleetwood (next Saturday) with the same aggression and passion, and try to build from there.”

The Gills lined up with an attacking formation at the weekend, including three upfront, after bringing in strikers Frank Nouble and Jay Emmanuel-Thomas.

“It wasn’t a risk,” added Kerslake. “We know that they are good players. We knew they would give us a physical presence and Charlton are quite a physical side themselves. We had to match that. All those who came in were outstanding.”

Despite the positives, the Gills still surrendered a lead, scoring first but failing to win for the fifth game running. It’s something the management team are working on.

Kerslake said: “We have spoken about it. How do you replicate it on the training pitch? Do you say, ‘right, there is a minute to go, clear the ball’. That doesn’t replicate it but we are fully aware of what is happening because it is hurting us badly.

“But if we continue to show the aggression and willingness to accept the ball the way we did on Saturday then we will be fine.”