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Gillingham 2 Bristol Rovers 0: Two-goal striker John Akinde reacts to the victory at Priestfield

Gillingham striker John Akinde was buzzing to have bagged both goals in the 2-0 win against Bristol Rovers.

He’s started the last three league games for the Gills and the 31-year-old says that his helping his form.

John Akinde scored twice for Gillingham on Saturday
John Akinde scored twice for Gillingham on Saturday

Akinde played a key role in the 3-2 win at Charlton and struck from the penalty spot in the week against Peterborough United.

“I am buzzing,” he said, after Saturday’s win at Priestfield.

“I want to score goals, to help the team win and get three points, so I am buzzing to have done all of that.

“It is the first time I have started three in a row and that is quite good. You get more match fitness and match sharpness and it was good to get another start.”

He’s often had to make do with starting from the bench behind Vadaine Oliver but it was a role reversal this weekend. Oliver’s introduction after the break did, however, help turn the tide against Rovers.

Oliver helped the Gills win more battles and more headers as the management team asked the player to show more aggression.

“Vadaine coming on helped massively,” said the striker.

“All of a sudden they are then worrying about which one they needed to pick up. We worked well together.

“It showed first half it was a real physical battle and bringing big V helped me and gave them more of a battle. It was a very physical game.

“It was a solid performance in the second half, we dominated, especially in the air. We were pleased to get the win and the clean sheet.”

John Akinde in action against Bristol Rovers during the opening half Picture: Barry Goodwin
John Akinde in action against Bristol Rovers during the opening half Picture: Barry Goodwin

Akinde scored twice but did have a penalty saved and he commented on that, saying: “I changed my mind too late, which you shouldn’t do when taking a pen, but if you miss them you carry on and go again.”

Next up for the Gills is a trip to AFC Wimbledon’s new Plough Lane ground on Tuesday night.

It might be a new ground but Akinde will have the same thoughts.

He said: “That will be nice. I don’t care about the stadium to be honest, I just want to get the three points.

“I fancy myself all the time. I want to go and play well, the team play well, and hopefully we’ll get some goals. I am enjoying it at the moment.”

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Report: Gillingham 2 Bristol Rovers 0

Reaction: 'We had to be more aggressive'

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