Gas Take On The Gills

John Ward's reign continues with big game against Gillingham

It's another matchday tomorrow as Rovers take on current League Two leaders Gillingham at the Memorial Stadium.

This would be a test for any side in the division but even more so for John Ward's men given the number of players who have come and gone in the last few days. Wayne Brown, Sam Walker, Derek Riordan, Tom Eaves, Cian Bolger and Matt Lund have all departed recently whilst Steve Mildenhall, Tom Hitchcock, John-Joe O'Toole and Mark McChrystal have come in. There will be many more signing on in the next few weeks as we bid to retain our Football League status but one player who doesn't seem likely to join permanently is trialist Guy Madjo. The former Aldershot striker has trained with the team for the past two days but it seems as though he will not be offered a contract by John Ward. Instead the 61 year old is likely to pursue other targetmen, as well as look to sign a proven goalscorer to parter them with. It remains to be seen whether the club will make a renewed bid to sign Cian Bolger permanently from Leicester after they rejected our initial offer yesterday, whilst Stoke have yet to respond to Ward's request to sign Lund until the end of the season.

This means there will be some enforced changes to the starting XI tomorrow with Garry Kenneth likely to come in for Bolger after completing his one-game suspension, whilst Seanan Clucas appears favourite to obtain Lund's midfield place. McChrystal has only played on 3 occasions this season whilst on loan with Scunthorpe United in League One so it is thought that he will not be gambled from the start tomorrow afternoon. David Clarkson is rated as doubtful to feature with his ankle injury whilst Jim Paterson is definitely ruled out, however Danny Woodards has returned to training but is not thought to be replacing the impressive Michael Smith at right back.

Gillingham are the second opponents in what is a difficult set of matches for Rovers over the next few weeks. The Gas are also set to face promotion chasing Fleetwood Town, Exeter City and Rotherham United before the month is out and how they fare is likely to define their season. We're still to play most of our relegation rivals at home so if we can keep in touch with them by continuing to pick up points in January we'll be in a good position to kick on. One thing is for sure in these matches, we'll need to remain tight at the back and be prepared to deal with route one football - particularly against the Gills tomorrow. Martin Allen's men are renowned for their long ball football and whilst it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing style of play it sure is effective. However, despite losing 4-0 to them in the reverse fixture back in September, we shouldn't go in to the game fearing the worst.

Not only have we been much improved in the two games played under Ward but fellow-strugglers Barnet shocked League Two by winning at Priestfield over Christmas. If the Bees can win on the Kent club's own patch why shouldn't we be able to win at the Mem?

We'll need the same spirit, desire and determination as we displayed against Plymouth on Tuesday, but with the backing of Gasheads there's no reason why we can't record another 3 points. If you're in two minds about whether to go to the game tomorrow then I urge you to attend and support your team!

Up the Gas!