Stimson has last laugh with abusive fan

Last updated : 02 April 2008 By Simon Head

The Gills had a poor first half against Luton on Tuesday night, but received a reasonably positive reception from the fans as they headed for the dressing rooms.

However, one fan in the Medway Stand decided to hurl a four-letter rant in the direction of the Gills manager, who stopped his walk to face the fan and listen before heading off towards the tunnel.

The second half brought a memorable atmosphere from the Priestfield faithful and a memorable comeback, too. Simeon Jackson scored twice with close-range headers to seal the win for Stimson's side, leaving the fans in raptures, and the manager delighted.

After a team huddle, the squad and management headed back to the dressing rooms, applauding the fans who had given them superb backing when they needed it most. However, on his way past the Medway Stand, Stimson sought out the fan who had abused him at halftime and, doffing an imaginary cap to demonstrate that he recognized the cap-wearing fan, he then pointed and danced a victory jig, accompanied by a huge grin.

Talking to the official Gillingham FC website, Stimson explained: "We've had a few chaps here giving me a little bit of stick since I took over. Unfortunately, there are three supporters who don't come anymore. After the Crewe game, they told me they weren't coming in their own way as it was a waste of time and money and everything else. They haven't turned up tonight but we haven't done badly since they stopped coming so if they want to stay away, stay away but just keep sending me that nice mail that doesn't have your address on it!

"One guy took it upon himself to tell me what he thought. Unfortunately for him, he had a cap on and I'm quite good at recognising people and remembering them. I just went back and had a look there, and he was still saying it was rubbish. I had a bit of banter with him but hopefully he comes next week and gets behind the boys. People can give me stick, it doesn't affect me too much as my beliefs and confidence in my own ability won't get knocked by 5000 people."

Sadly, the fan concerned didn't seem to take the riposte with good grace, but the reaction from the manager demonstrated his desire to do well, and to change the opinions of those fans who don't believe in him.

And if Stimson continues to produce results under such huge pressure, the Gillingham fans will surely have few complaints.