If there was a manager’s player-of-the-match then there was a leading contender for Gillingham boss Mark Bonner on Saturday.
Robbie McKenzie’s early goal put the Gills in front after a tricky start and the midfielder ended the game in defence after captain Max Ehmer was sent off – playing a key rearguard role as Chesterfield looked to capitalise on their man advantage.
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The Gills held on for a 1-0 win as they remain top of League 2 after four games.
“Robbie McKenzie’s performance was unreal,” said the manager.
“Centre midfield, goal and centre half. Absolutely amazing to do that.
“He’s played central midfield since day one when I’ve been here and he’s had to go and play centre back and he’s not even done that in training. He’s a class act that boy. I love him.”
McKenzie might be needed there again as Gillingham have few options next week, with Ehmer now suspended for a game.
Conor Masterson is out injured, as is Oli Hawkins, who could fill that role. Tim Dieng’s also out, leaving only McKenzie and youngster Alex Giles.
“We’ll just see how that that plays out, but we’ll find a way,” said the manager.
It was a game which saw striker Marcus Wyllie – a summer signing from Enfield Town – make his first appearance in the Football League, picked to start upfront ahead of Jacob Wakeling.
Bonner said: “I thought he did really well and his work ethic was good.
“He didn’t have lots of moments in terms of in their penalty box, but he had a couple of bits on counter attack.
“He pressed really well. Good Energy about him. He’s played a lot of senior football, but just not in the league. He made his senior debut in the cup but it’s his first EFL one so was a special day for him, and really pleased with how he did.”
George Lapslie, meanwhile, made his first start under Bonner.
The midfielder’s been available for transfer since the end of last season but has stuck around.
Bonner said: “He’s having a massive impact and training has been good. He was missing a bit pre-season.
“His impact off the bench has been great. His impact [on Saturday] was really good. So I’m buzzing the [transfer] window is shut!”
