Jepson "We need reinforcements"

By Jack Nolan
August 25 2007

Gillingham manager Ronnie Jepson once again blamed his squad depth, but he still isn't making excuses! The Gillingham boss, who has come under fire from sections of the Gillingham support, was also dissapointed with the performance from his side blaming a lack of spark.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Jepson said: "We just didn't get out the traps and it was a disappointing performance. There was a lack of spark from the boys".

 

Gillingham lost defender Simon King in the build-up to the game, but praised the deputizing Mark Bentley for his performance. "It wasn't ideal preparation for the game. We lost King in the run-up and it left me with just one first-team central defender. Bentley did a good job today but I need more strength-in-depth. The bench was full of young players and that obviously makes my job harder."

 

The Gills scored their first goal of the campaign through Mark Bentley’s header. Gillingham fans were forced to wait four games for the first goal and Jepson praised Bentley for his goal. "It was good movement from Benno for the goal. He did well to get across the defender and it was good to get our first goal of the season. I was naturally disappointed with the defeat and we need to improve. I know we can produce more and I've told the players I need more. It didn't help that we were missing some key players."

 

The Gillingham manager also questioned the penalty that was given which effectively killed the game off in favor of The Hatters. Jepson said: "I'm not sure about it and could do with another look but the referee didn't take too long to make his decision. I think the linesman gave it but some of our boys were disappointed and that generally gives you an idea. Roycey (Simon Royce) nearly got to it and it's a shame he couldn't keep it out because we were well in the game at 2-1 and creating opportunities."

 

Not making excuses, The Gills boss said the reason for the defeat is that the squad lacks depth. He said: "I'm not here to make excuses but I do need some reinforcements. We need some new faces and I need more competition for places. I'm always hurt after defeats and so are my staff. We prepare in the right manner and we want to bring success to our loyal fans but it isn't happening at the moment. We will get it right though and will go again next week."

 

Jepson will undoubtedly feel the pressure next Saturday should The Gills fail to get anything out of the visit of Wallsall.