Gillingham defeated Plymouth Argyle 1-0 in League One on Sunday to ensure they ended their season on a high and finish in the top 10 of the table for the second year in a row.

A Vadaine Oliver header was the difference between the two sides as the forward netted his 20th goal of the season, even if the match did have a real end-of-season feel to it.

Story of the match

First-half

The game began in the absolute worst fashion, as Kelland Watts hit the deck following a collision with Vadaine Oliver. The Argyle defender spent close to 10 minutes receiving treatment from both sets of medical staff and doctors on the pitch before being stretched off under oxygen.

Back to the action, Olly Lee headed over Tom O’Connor’s corner before substitute Byron Moore forced Jack Bonham into a smart save down low to his right.

Ben Reeves saw his free kick deflected over, but Gillingham were soon ahead and forward Vadaine Oliver had his 20th goal of the season.

Following good work from Jordan Graham, Robbie McKenzie was fed through down the right and crossed into the middle. Olly Lee flicked on and Oliver arrived at the far post to head home to reach 20 for the Gills.

Kyle Dempsey fired over for Gillingham just before half-time, and after 12 minutes of stoppage time the whistle was blown, despite few chances for either side.

Second-half

Gillingham should have been two ahead at the start of the second-half when the ball fell to Olly Lee in acres of space just yards out. The midfielder shot with his left, however, and Mike Cooper saved.

Plymouth began to apply the pressure as Gills manager Steve Evans rang the changes - Oliver unfortunately making way with an injury.

Panutche Camara dragged wide before Gills substitute Tyreke Johnson curled past the post, and Olly Lee headed wide of the target again as the game drew to a close.

Argyle had the chance to level as a ball flashed across goal late on, but they couldn’t take it, and Gillingham were soon confirmed winners to finish in the top 10 of League One for the second consecutive season.

Takeaways from the match

Positives for Gills

A few manic moments cost Gillingham this season, with the side throwing away leads in recent weeks to put an end to their play-off hopes.

But they have finished 10th for the second consecutive year and can be proud of their campaign in tough circumstance. Next year they will be hoping to kick on further, but a busy summer awaits first.

Struggle for Plymouth

Plymouth's season died out once their survival was confirmed and they ended the season in dire form.

In their first year back in League One, however, they have to be pleased with safety. Next year is when they will look to push on up the table.

Standout player

Vadaine Oliver

Oliver unfortunately had to be substituted in the second-half due to injury, but the forward was yet again on the scoresheet and looked more than chuffed to net his 20th of the season.

He has worked incredibly hard this campaign and has deserved his rewards. 

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