Gills 2-1 Colchester: Neale Cooper

Last updated : 09 August 2005 By Simon Head

Cooper: Happy with the win, but looking for improvement

Talking to the official website, Cooper said, "I am very proud and very pleased. We showed the better character today to come back and win the game 2-1. I thought we created two or three very good chances in the first half, but we never took them. They were a strong side today and they are a strong team in this league. Over the piece, there was some good football played today.

"We are still a young team but it takes time. It was important to get off to a winning start. It gives the fans, the players, the staff and myself a lift, so it's nice, as we all go home happy. The players were immense in all departments today. We can still improve and we can become a lot stronger.

"It was a massive result today. There are a lot of positives. The boys are very tired in there but when you win, it is nicer. I would like to thank them for their effort, as it was a big day for me personally, and the support was brilliant."

Cooper wasn't too impressed with the way Gillingham conceded the opening goal, saying, "I thought Danny Jackman was too far over, but Cox said he called them over. We'll learn from that."

Despite going one goal down, Cooper made some changes to the way the team played and goals from Andy Crofts and Darren Byfield turned the game on its head. He was especially happy for matchwinner Darren Byfield, who could become a hugely important player for us this season.

Talking about his star striker, Cooper said "He was excellent I like to see football played but at times we had to stretch them, and Darren's pace caused them problems. It was a great finish and he has great feet. He likes to come showing for it, and that's the way I like it. He comes, takes a touch, then looks for others."

With Gillingham winning their first match of the season, Cooper is now looking for his side to continue their good start on Tuesday night as they make the trip to the Potteries to take on Port Vale.

"They struggled a bit last year, as they had a few problems up there. They are always difficult matches. They had a great win at Southend today and it will be difficult. We'll go up there on Monday and prepare for Tuesday's game."