Remarkable as it sounds, Gillingham have a six pointer this weekend as they face fellow relegation threatened Hartlepool United on Saturday afternoon.

Neil Harris’ side make the long trip north for the League Two clash having scored just two league goals all season – in nine games!

If that wasn’t bad enough, Harris’ side face a Hartlepool United sitting just below them in the league (22nd and 23rd) and they will be buoyed by a new manager with Keith Curle having taken over in the week.

Gillingham go into the game without loanee Elkan Baggott as the Ipswich Town defender is on international duty with Indonesia.

That will force a reshuffle at the back with Max Ehmer likely to keep his place in the side, but Harris will have to work out who plays alongside him and can he play with four or five at the back.

Going forward, Olly Lee remains unavailable with a foot injury whilst Dom Jefferies could be available despite having a quad issue.

Scott Kashket may not be risked after missing last weekend’s 2-0 loss at home to Mansfield Town, but the equation is simple for Neil Harris this weekend:

“We have to start winning games, that’s the bottom line.” he said.

“With Keith (Curle) coming in at Hartlepool you usually get that new manager bounce. I do expect a different Hartlepool. It’s a chance for us to respond.” 

Lose and Gillingham will end the weekend in the bottom two of League football, win and some of the immediate pressure will be off.

A draw might be a good point to earn, but come the end of the season, it could prove to be not enough.

As it stands, Gillingham will be hoping there are two worse teams than them come the end of the campaign.

Picture supplied by Gillingham Football Club.