Reaction From Gillingham's Simon King

Simon King

Gillingham defender Simon King, signed for £250,000 from Barnet last summer despite the Gills being £13 million in debt, spoke to his club's official website about the 0-0 draw against Carlisle at the Priestfield Stadium yesterday, King, like his manager Mark Stimson, being pleased to keep a clean sheet against the Blues :


"It was a good game. We started off well, which you need to against teams that are second in the league. We started with a good tempo and the lads worked really hard. The crowd were brilliant again and they really kept us going. I think we totally matched Carlisle and everyone was so full-hearted; winning their tackles, winning their headers and it was a good team performance. I think the gaffer said we didn't get the win so the next best thing is a draw, keeping a clean sheet and taking a point which is very important at this stage of the season.

"The result against Carlisle gives us confidence as we matched them. I am sure there are people who have written us off already but I totally disagree with that. If we can continue to get points on the board, and really put the pressure on Crewe and Millwall, I am sure they'll start looking behind them. It is in our hands so every one of us will continue to give 100 per cent and have a real good go.

"It is difficult to tell about the gulf in the table sometimes when you are playing in the game. Defensively, they didn't tear us apart. They had a couple of half-chances but we had a couple of chances too that might have gone in on another day. Simeon Jackson hit the bar from 25 yards and that might've gone in on another day. You could tell that they are a good team but we totally matched them and that is very pleasing. I think teams at the top have that little bit more quality. I think when we are on our game, we can match the top teams.

"Danny Cullip comes in and his experience is vital to us. He helps me on my game as he is always talking to me throughout the game to keep me on my toes. I've always got that reassurance with him behind me to go in and win every ball that I go for. Nicky Southall came back in and with his delivery from set-pieces, I thought we looked dangerous. He has got great quality on the ball. Simeon Jackson and Dennis Oli worked well together and they have built a good bond together and have looked a dangerous partnership.

"It is a nice partnership with the three of us at the back. Danny's experience and communication is good. I like having him behind me and I feel the back three is quite solid and we have kept three clean sheets and only conceded one goal in the four full games that we have played together. It is pleasing to get a clean sheet against a quality team like Carlisle.

"I got a bit carried away against Carlisle, as I knew Danny was there behind me, and I ended up on the left-wing. The game got a bit spread and open so I thought I would drive in and try to help create a chance. Maybe I should be more disciplined and sit back as the worst thing that can happen is we get done by a sucker punch. Maybe I'll stay steady and save the old legs!"