Scott Malone and Cheye Alexander won’t be available for the weekend, but Interim Head Coach Keith Millen may be able to add three more players to his matchday roster.
Both Tim Dieng (knee) and Oli Hawkins (heel) are both recovering from long-term injuries, therefore neither will be available for selection in Keith Millen’s squad this weekend. Ashley Nadesan, who hurt his ankle during Gills’ 2-1 victory over MK Dons last Saturday, is also not included in the squad.
In the match against Walsall, George Lapslie and Shaun Williams may make their First-Team comebacks. Jonny Williams is also eligible to be selected, having participated in the entire ninety minutes of the midweek match against Portsmouth.
Due to a suspension, Scott Malone will not be available this weekend. Due to an international call-out, Cheye Alexander is likewise unavailable.
Regarding Walsall, they might still be missing Freddie Draper, keeper Owen Evans, and former Gills loanee Donervon Daniels. To determine if they can feature or not, late fitness tests might be necessary.
Manager’s Remarks:
Keith Millen: “We’ve gone past Tuesday night’s loss.
“We were obviously sad to concede some of those goals the manner we did, but there were a lot of positives to take away from that game.
I’ve played at Walsall a lot in the past, and they usually give you a good game. They’re tough to beat at home, have a decent home record, and a fantastic stadium with a wonderful atmosphere.
“They lost the cup on penalties after losing to Sutton.”
“They will be eager to resume their winning ways, especially at home.
We must make sure that we are prepared for both the struggle and the fast-paced game when we ascend there. We need to be equipped to handle everything.
Mat Sadler: “In the division, Gillingham is a highly anticipated team.”
“I’ll approach every game with an emphasis on who we are and what we do; it has to be all about us.
“We’re anxious to send them home satisfied, and it’s a nice one to get our teeth into in front of our home supporters. Our first goal is to triumph in front of our home crowd, and we are excited to play a respectable squad that will be motivated to make the playoffs, so it will serve as a useful benchmark for us.
Earlier Meeting:
The Gills’ most recent visit to Walsall took place in mid-March of this year when the teams played a League Two match at Bescot Stadium.
The hosts had the better chances to reach the net in the first half on this soggy afternoon in the Midlands. In and around the Gillingham area, the Saddlers executed excellent build-up play, making the proper passes and forming strong connections.
The hosts could have led by two goals at halftime if Glenn Morris hadn’t been in goal for the Gills. The Gillingham keeper made the difference by tipping outstanding shots over his crossbar from Andy Williams and Isaac Hutchinson.
With a goal by Hutchinson early in the second half, the hosts took the lead. The forward broke on the counterattack, giving himself a chance to shoot goal by driving down the wing. With luck on his side, his shot caught Max Ehmer’s leg, diverting it past a defenceless Morris and putting Walsall ahead.
As the half went on, the Gills battled back and had periods of possession, but they were unable to find the crucial ball that would have allowed them to break through the Walsall defence and tie the score.
In the final seconds of extra time, the hosts secured the victory.
Following a successful throw-in within the Gillingham half, the ball was lofted into the box by Walsall and landed on Mathew Stevens’ head. Stevens then tip-off the ball to Connor Wilkinson, who powered a shot past Glen Morris and into the net.
The teams have a nearly similar historical record when playing one another going into this match. In league competition, the standings are evenly divided, with 45 victories each claimed by both teams.
Out of the four FA Cup matches that have been played between the two teams, the Gills have won two more, Walsall has won one, and the other cup match has ended in a draw.
Ticket Information:
Gills fans can buy tickets on the day, however there is a £2 increase to the pre-match pricing. Please be aware the stadium is a cashless venue.
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