 Young midfielder Nayan Grant made a timely return to action for Gillingham FC Academy, playing a key role as his side snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory over Bristol Rovers in their Youth Alliance South Combined encounter at the SGS College - Wise Campus Grounds.
The clash proved to be a tight and engaging affair, with both teams battling fiercely for the three points. After an end-to-end contest that saw the score locked at 2-2 heading into the final stages, the introduction of Grant and fellow substitute Sulli Booth in the 69th minute proved to be the decisive moment.
Just sixty seconds after stepping onto the pitch, the fresh legs of the Gillingham substitutes made an immediate impact. Following some excellent work to win possession, the ball found its way to Booth, who showed composure to fire home the winner with his very first touch of the game.
While Booth will rightly take the plaudits for the decisive goal, the return of Grant will be a welcome sight for the Gillingham academy coaches. The young midfielder's presence in the latter stages undoubtedly added energy and impetus to the Gills' play as they pushed for the winner.
The victory will provide a significant boost to the Gillingham FC Academy side, showcasing their resilience and ability to seize opportunities in tight matches. For Bristol Rovers, it will be a disappointing end to a hard-fought contest, leaving them to rue the late intervention from the Gillingham substitutes.
This Youth Alliance South Combined fixture provided an exciting glimpse into the talent emerging from both academies, with Grant's return and Booth's instant impact the headline moments in a thrilling 3-2 victory for Gillingham.
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