Neil Harris has spoken of his pride as Gillingham dug in to win their second game under him in the space of a week.

The new manager watched on as Gillingham threw everything they had at Cambridge United at Priestfield on Tuesday night, with Vadaine Oliver tapping home in the 86th minute to secure three very vital points.

Having seen his side climb one place in League One, just five points now from safety, Harris had nothing but praise for his rejuvenated Gillingham side:

“I thought it was two competitive sides; we were okay for 25 minutes, I thought we were the better team but they grew into the game and showed their qualities. “At half-time I felt we had to tinker the shape. We made the tactical adjustment and they delivered.”

“When we had to dig in we did, again, and obviously with the goal I am really pleased for Vadaine. I said to him that if you play for me you will score goals. We have to be a threat.”

“We’ve had two 1-0 victories here, our best performance was at Ipswich. All we can do is take care of our own business. I am learning about my players all the time; if we keep putting in performances like we have then we will pick up points.”

“We found a way to win a game. The players dug in, blocked opportunities and we grew stronger in the last 15 minutes. Vadaine Oliver wants to score goals, and he knows he will get opportunities. All goals are good goals.”

“The fans get up in the morning and go to work happy. For us it’s about putting smiles on faces and filling seats here and having that togetherness between the terraces and the pitch. It’s one day and one game at a time. We need to make sure it’s a team mentality.”

Harris will now have to prepare his side for what could be described as a six pointer on Saturday.

The Gills lead to Morecambe who sit one place above them in League One and will surely be one of their relegation rivals come the end of the season.

There seems to be a real sense of optimism at Gillingham since Harris’ arrival and fans will dare to dream that the great escape is possible.

Picture supplied by Gillingham Football Club.