Gillingham Under 18s secured a dramatic passage into the third round of the FA Youth Cup, defeating Forest Green Rovers in a tense penalty shootout after a hard-fought 2-2 draw at MEMS Priestfield Stadium.
The young Gills were pushed all the way by their determined opponents in a match that demanded resilience and nerve in equal measure.
Bermuda's Nayan Grant was heavily involved in the action, starting the match as Gillingham’s academy side looked to make home advantage count. However, despite their efforts, neither side could find a decisive goal within the regulation ninety minutes, or the subsequent extra time period, leaving the score locked at two goals apiece.
The decisive moment came in the latter stages of the game when the tactical switch was made. Grant was replaced in the 81st minute by Zak Whitelock, who proved to be the hero of the hour.
With the deadlock unbroken, the tie proceeded to penalties. Under the intense pressure of the shootout, it was Whitelock, the late substitute, who stepped up to score the decisive spot-kick. His conversion settled the gripping contest, ensuring Gillingham edged past Forest Green Rovers to book their place in the third round draw.
The win marks a significant achievement for the Gillingham academy side, keeping their FA Youth Cup dream alive as they look ahead to a potentially lucrative third-round fixture.
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