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Gills 0-3 Barnsley: Chris Hope

Last updated : 16 September 2005 By Simon Head
Hope: Wants to give the fans success after last season's disappointment
Talking to the official website, the Gills skipper said, "The lads are a bit shell-shocked to be honest. I don't think I have ever felt like that at half-time before. We were absolutely dominating the game, and to go in 2-0 down, it is frightening. "We talked afterwards, and we are a team, and we have to attack and defend together. We need to stick the ball in the back of the net. It is not just the forwards, it is the midfielders and defenders, as we all need to chip in with goals.

The Gills started the season well, but have faltered of late - and Hope knows that much work is needed to recapture the team's early-season form.

"We have looked solid at the start of the season, but last couple of games, have looked leaky and it is disappointing to be shipping goals. It is something we have got to work on, as well as putting the ball in the back of the net to get results.

Despite the up and down start to the season, Hope is clear about his aims for the season. He wants success - and he wants it this season.

"I'm looking to finish as high as possible. I've had two seasons of struggling. It is still tight as one win can put you up there. We're looking to turn it around. I want to be involved in the playoffs or automatic promotion.

"To lose out how we did at Forest, was terrible. Everyone at the club, the lads, the staff and the fans were devastated. The sooner we can get back into the Championship, the better. There have been a lot of changes, some new faces coming in, but sometimes it can take a while to gel. I'm sure it will as they are a good bunch of lads, and we can put it right, both for ourselves and the fans."

For the official website's full interview with Chris Hope, go to www.gillinghamfootballclub.com