Two sides at opposite ends of the League Two table will face off on Saturday as second-placed Gillingham host 23rd-placed Accrington Stanley at Priestfield Stadium. The hosts come into the match with 19 points from ten games, while the visitors have only managed six points from nine outings.
Match Preview
Gillingham: After a heartbreaking relegation from League One in the 2021-22 season, Gillingham has been working to rebuild in League Two. They finished 17th in the 2022-23 season and improved to 12th last season, narrowly missing out on the playoffs. Under new manager Mark Bonner, Gillingham started this campaign strongly, losing just one of their first eight league matches. However, they have hit a rough patch with two consecutive losses against Grimsby Town and Crewe Alexandra. Gillingham will be looking to bounce back against Accrington, who may provide the perfect opportunity for a turnaround.
Accrington Stanley: Accrington has struggled this season, sitting at the bottom of the table with just six points from nine games. Their only victory came in their last league match against Morecambe, a 2-1 win that could provide a much-needed boost to their confidence. Nevertheless, the visitors are at risk of a second relegation in three seasons after being demoted from League One last term. Accrington has struggled historically against Gillingham, failing to win in their last five encounters, which includes four losses and a draw.
Team News
Gillingham: Following two consecutive defeats, Bonner may opt for several changes to rejuvenate his squad. However, the defense is expected to remain unchanged, as Gillingham boasts the joint-best defensive record in the division, having conceded just five goals. Aaron Rowe is likely to miss out again, meaning Jayden Clarke could retain his place in the starting XI.
Accrington Stanley: Forward Dara Costelloe, who scored both goals in their recent victory against Morecambe, is a doubt after sustaining an injury late in that match. Manager John Doolan may choose to field a similar lineup to the one that secured their first win, with Tyler Walton potentially replacing Costelloe if he is unable to play.
Predicted Lineups
Gillingham (4-2-3-1):
- Morris; Hutton, Ehmer, Ogie, Clark; Little, McKenzie; Wakeling, Hawkins, Clarke; Nevitt
Accrington Stanley (4-2-3-1):
- Crellin; O’Brien, Aljofree, Rawson, Awe, Love; Whalley, Conneely, Khumbeni, Walton; Mooney
Prediction
Despite Gillingham’s recent setbacks, they should feel confident heading into this fixture against an Accrington side struggling for form and confidence. With Gillingham’s solid defensive record and Accrington’s history of underperformance against them, the home side is expected to secure a convincing victory.
Predicted Score: Gillingham 2-0 Accrington Stanley.
