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The first half was a huge improvement, the additions of Crofts and Jarvis, plus improved performances from Smith and Southall saw us compete well in midfield and look the more dangerous side.
Darius Henderson looked a real handful up front and was hugely effective. Unfortunately, Darren Byfield had a massively frustrating evening as time after time he was caught offside, ending many of our attacks before they began.
We competed on level terms with Leicester for the opening 45. Both sides had chances, which were dealt with excellently by both keepers. As the halftime whistle blew, we were optimistic that we could get something from the game.
Unfortunately, the second half saw Leicester up their work rate and the Gills midfield was forced to work overtime to cover the multitude of runs the Leicester midfielders made into our territory. Smith's effectiveness started to fade as he ran out of gas and the Leicester midfielders began to find more space.
The opening goal came from a corner. Leicester looked a real threat from corners - and after a good save by Banks, their centre half Heath stabbed the ball home from close range.
The Gills were behind, but continued to create chances. But the result was effectively sealed in the 67th minute when Andy Hessenthaler opted to send on Patrick Agyemang for Matty Jarvis rather than the increasingly ineffective Darren Byfield. The side changed from a 4-4-2 to a loose 4-3-3.
This move effectively surrendered the midfield to Leicester, who took full advantage. Shortly after, they scored their second goal. Trevor Benjamin's run was tracked by Chris Hope, who effectively shepherded the Leicester striker to the goal line. He then committed a cardinal sin by letting Benjamin cross the ball. The cross rolled straight into the path of the onrushing Dion Dublin, who cooly side-footed into the top corner to seal the game.
From that moment on, it was back to the familiar old pattern. Long ball, aimless punts upfield, bypassing midfield. The game was over.
The final insult was delivered by the referee who unbelievably sent off Nicky Southall for a second bookable offence when he kicked the ball back towards the corner flag so Leicester could take the corner. He kicked it firmly in furtration, but it wasn't lashed too hard - and the ball hit the corner flag, sending it spinning into the air. The referee, who was inconsistent and generally poor throughout, couldn't wait to give Southall his second yellow, followed by the red.
Disappointed fans streamed out of Priestfield wondering just what it will take to see a turnaround. Many have now completely lost faith with the manager. What happens from here is anyone's guess...