An upbeat Gills boss Ady Pennock praised his players after Tuesday night’s draw against AFC Wimbledon.

Gillingham came back from 1-0 down to lead 2-1, but still couldn’t reach full time with the lead intact, as former player Andy Barcham struck an equaliser.

Report: Gillingham 2 AFC Wimbledon 2

Pennock had been critical of his side in recent weeks but defended them this time around.

He said: “I was very proud of the players, they gave it absolutely everything.

“They carried on where they left off in the second half against Coventry and played some good football.

“They had to roll their sleeves up in the second half. The injuries (to Oshilaja and Garmston) upset us a bit, but we finished strong. The fitness levels were fantastic.

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“Overall, I was very proud of every single one of them. I would take these boys all day long, they have been absolutely top drawer.”

Goals from Josh Wright and Bradley Dack put the Gills ahead in the first half.

“Our heads didn’t drop and we played some really good football,” said the Gills head coach.

“We deservedly went in 2-1 up and the injuries were the wrong time for us, but the subs who came on and those in the stands, we’re in this together. They were absolutely first class.

“The boys are disappointed in the changing room but I am not. I am not disappointed with the performance and the attitude. The football we played was very good and they deserve three points. It’s a shame we didn’t get them.”