Gillingham were edged out 2-1 by Brentford B in a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly at the Bees’ training ground on Saturday. Omar Beckles pulled one back late, but the Gills could not force an equaliser as they suffered their fourth pre-season reverse.
What happened on the pitch?
Brentford struck twice in the first half, opening the scoring from a corner on 20 minutes. Robbie McKenzie nearly halved the deficit early in the second period, but Kadeem Harris blazed wide as the hosts doubled their lead after a defensive mix-up. Gillingham, playing in a back three under Gareth Ainsworth, responded with purpose. Beckles powered home from close range in the 70th minute after another James Brophy corner found Michael Luxton, whose header rattled the post.
The Gills pushed hard for an equaliser late on, with Will Goodwin and Louie Dayal denied by the Brentford goalkeeper. The hosts held firm to seal the win, leaving Gillingham still searching for a clean sheet in pre-season.
Who impressed for the Gills?
Beckles’ headed goal was the standout moment, a sharp finish that gave the travelling support something to cheer. Brophy’s set-pieces were again on point, while Taite Holtam made crucial stops to keep the deficit manageable. Ethan Coleman’s first outing of the summer offered a glimpse of his return to fitness after injury.
Who missed out and why?
A raft of first-team names stayed on the bench: Armani Little, Cameron Antwi, Bradley Dack and Garath McCleary. Goalkeeper Ollie Wright remains unused since his arrival, while trialist Nick Freeman was omitted entirely. The squad included several youngsters who featured at Chatham on Friday, reflecting Ainsworth’s rotation policy.
What’s next for Gillingham?
The Gills face Ebbsfleet United on Friday night in their fifth pre-season outing. They sit 17th in League Two after a difficult 2025 campaign, with just 53 points from 46 games and a goal difference of -19. Their recent form reads WWLLL, and they’ll hope to carry that momentum into the new season.
Gillingham’s league standing (final 2025 table - new season not yet under way): 17th in League Two, 53 pts, 13W-14D-19L from 46 games, recent form WLLLD.
