Gillingham Under-18s started their league campaign with an impressive away victory, as second-half goals from Alfie Cross and Sulli Booth sealed a 2-0 win over Exeter City's Academy side at the Cliff Hill Training Ground.
Nayan Grant was a commanding presence in midfield, helping to dictate the tempo as the Gills weathered a strong start from the home side.
The opening exchanges were a tight affair, with both defences holding firm. Exeter looked to exploit the wings but were repeatedly thwarted by a disciplined Gillingham backline. The Gills' best chance of the half fell to striker Jayden Clarke, whose powerful shot from the edge of the area was well saved by the Exeter goalkeeper.
The deadlock was broken just 10 minutes into the second half. A clever through ball from Grant found winger Alfie Cross, who cut inside and curled a precise shot into the far corner, giving the keeper no chance.
The goal seemed to energize the visitors, and they began to dominate possession. Their efforts were rewarded in the 78th minute when Sulli Booth doubled their lead. The defender rose highest to meet a perfectly-delivered corner, heading the ball powerfully into the net to make it 2-0.
Exeter pushed for a late comeback, but Gillingham held firm, seeing out the final minutes to secure a valuable away win and a clean sheet.
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