Gillingham were given an insight into the levels they need to get to with their friendly match against Luton Town.
The Gills, under Gareth Ainsworth, are aiming for much better things to come when they return to League 2 action in a fortnight. Luton are likely to be a top side in the division above this season.
Report: Gillingham 0 Luton Town 2
Luton’s quality was evident as they won 2-0 but the Gills had a few openings themselves.
Ainsworth said: “It was a very strong team against us. I think they’re going to be right up there at the top of League 1.
“They’ve got a serious squad and some really good players. I think that’s great. It shows the level where we want to get to and where we have to be.
“I thought second half we were so much better. We pressed higher and we went higher as a whole team. First half we gave a bit of respect to them.”
Luton scored both of their goals in the opening half but the Gills enjoyed a lot more play in the attacking third after the break, before a host of changes later in the game disrupted the flow.
Ainsworth said: “I think we could have avoided at least one of the goals. They never really carved us apart, which was really good to see.
“They had plenty of ball and you’re going to expect that when you’re playing a team that’s just come out of the Championship. So, fair play to Luton.
“But I’m really pleased. A good run out for the boys. We obviously had the penalty miss and Clarky will be gutted at that. But I’m sure in the league we’ll stick those in.
“We had some chances in that second half. With the want of just a bit of quality, a bit of clever play around the box, I think we’ll get in and we’ll score goals.
“Everyone will be saying we need to score goals and I know that. We will. We’ll get there.
“We had a couple of chances and I think we’ve given them a good test. Their managers just told me that we’re decent, a good side, and League 2 is going to be a lot different when we play those sides.”
The Gills finish pre-season with away games against Ebbsfleet United (Tuesday night) and Dartford (next Saturday).
“I’ll rotate around now for the next two games,” said Ainsworth.
“I’ll make sure most players have got 90 minutes under their belt come (the first league game against) Accrington.
“That’s the important one. Going up there, putting a plan in place and making sure we can be competitive in this league.”
