Football Season Review

Gillingham fans had reasons to worry going into the new season, as the Gills slowed down a great deal near the end of the previous campaign and barely managed to escape the drop. With the side failing to significantly strengthen during the winter, a midtable finish was the best that the Gills could have realistically hoped for and they managed to achieve it, but not without drama on the way. Steve Lovell's men spent the majority of the campaign dangerously close to the relegation places and he was under very public pressure going into the New Year. The Gills' fortunes eventually improved, with a run of fine results on their travels allowing them to secure their survival with two games left to play. However, the club made a somewhat surprising decision near the end of the campaign, as Lovell was fired right after their survival was mathematically secured. At first glance, the decision to part ways with Lovell following a good run of results looked rather bizarre, but the main reason for his departure was the Gills' abysmal home record. They finished the season with the fourth-worst home record in the division and their fans were unhappy with the football on show. Time will tell whether the decision to part ways with Lovell was a correct one. The Gills have not invested in their squad in a while and there is a big question mark over whether their next manager will manage to do any better.

Player of the Season: Barry Fuller