Neil Harris believes Gillingham’s win at Lincoln City was a statement result as they look to avoid relegation from League One.

Second half goals from Vadaine Oliver and Ben Thompson secured three very vital points that sees The Gills climb to 22nd in the league, just three points now from safety as other results went their way.

Having secured his first away win since taking over at Priestfield, Harris was pleased to have taken the points at Sincil Bank:

“Today was a statement result. Lincoln had a lot of the Football and we know they are a good, well drilled and well coached team. We knew we would have to be disciplined. First half we controlled the game; they had the ball but we controlled the areas that they got into with it.”

“I’m ecstatic for the players, the football club and the fans who travelled. A well-deserved win. Lincoln were good and the possession stats will be high for them.”

“They dominated the ball from box to box but we forced them into areas where we wanted them to go. I picked a team and shape to dictate where we wanted the ball to go.”

“The four midfielders who played in a diamond formation were excellent. We looked structured from set-plays and first contacts in the box were high. We deserved the points.”

Meanwhile, Harris had nothing but praise for the 362 travelling Gillingham fans who sang their hearts out:

“It goes without saying their loyalty to the club, the support of the players and me since I’ve been here and that’s reward to them today, seeing a performance but getting a result aswell at a tough place to come.”

“That’s special for them, and it will be a special journey home.”

Gillingham now have a free week to prepare for Bolton Wanderers’ trip to Priestfield on Saturday.

With Kyle Dempsey coming back to the club just weeks after leaving, there will be added interest in the game.

Having lost 2-0 at Milton Keynes Dons on Saturday, Dempsey’s new side will come to Kent eager to get their play-off challenge back on track, whilst Gillingham will be desperate to pick up another win that could get them back within touching distance of safety.

The weeks ahead could prove pivotal for a Gillingham side that have shown that anything could be possible.

Picture supplied by Gillingham Football Club.