Gareth Ainsworth expressed his gratitude towards Gillingham’s travelling fans after witnessing a remarkable turnout during their Good Friday fixture at Cheltenham.
Although their League 2 campaign has offered little hope of either promotion or relegation drama, the Gills’ supporters showed up in numbers for a bottom-half clash hundreds of miles away.
The draw at the EV Charger Points Stadium saw the away section packed with 732 Gillingham fans, a figure that left their manager astonished.
Ainsworth Moved by Outstanding Support
Speaking after the 1-1 result, Ainsworth paid tribute to the fans who endured long Bank Holiday journeys to back their side.
“Wow, that’s Championship standard support. Fans, thank you so much,” said the Gills boss.
Those in the away end were given early cause for celebration when Gillingham took the lead, though there was frustration later when a second goal, scored by Sam Gale, was chalked off by the referee.
The performance ensured the club’s unbeaten streak stretched to nine matches, and Ainsworth remains undefeated in six games since his arrival. It is a run that reflects a growing resilience within the squad, something Ainsworth is eager to maintain.
“I’m hoping people have seen us become more solid and resilient,” he noted. “Earlier in the season, we may have collapsed in games like that. Now we stay strong.”
The Gills, currently 17th, have just three fixtures remaining. While the season’s conclusion may not feature any headline drama, Ainsworth believes it is a pivotal period for laying future foundations.
He emphasised the importance of collective effort, both on and off the field, to drive the club forward.
“The remit is simple – every player who pulls on a Gills shirt must run their socks off. If we do that, and the fans continue their amazing support, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together,” he added.
It’s clear Ainsworth envisions a new era at Gillingham, one built on unity and unwavering commitment.
Site Opinion
Gillingham’s Good Friday away following epitomises the kind of support every lower-league club dreams of. Ainsworth’s heartfelt reaction suggests he understands what makes Gillingham special. With solid foundations in place, particularly the growing bond between players and fans, the club could be set for brighter days under his stewardship. Maintaining momentum and fostering belief across the summer will be crucial in turning this season’s hard lessons into next year’s success story.
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