Gareth Ainsworth shocked by Gillingham’s ‘capitulation’ against Walsall

Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth criticised his side for their “capitulation” in a disappointing 3-0 home loss to Walsall.

Ainsworth’s side dominated for long periods but failed to score the goals to secure the points.

And they were made to pay heavily for their lack of cutting edge as late goals from Isaac Moore, James Connolly and Aaron Pressley did the damage as the Saddlers finished the match in style.

“It was like two different games,” said Ainsworth. “It was like one game from zero to 80 minutes – and then a game of 17 minutes of just collapse.

“It’s unbelievable that the boys have done that, they deserved something out of today.

“But then you can’t defend like that at the end there, it’s three goals and it’s a capitulation.

“It’s a body language thing for me which I just can’t justify.

“However, for 80 minutes I thought we were well worthy of something today.

“Hopefully that’s what people have seen, but listen, we’ve got to address those last 17 minutes without a shadow of a doubt.

“It was a 3-0 defeat and I’m judged on results, I’m not judged on performances and I know that.

“I was happy with a lot of stuff, but it was tough that last 17 minutes. But it didn’t help losing the two players that I did through injury in the first half. It’s not great.”

Ainsworth added: “When you’re up against it you need players to stand up.

“You know a 1-0 defeat, I think a lot of people would have said ‘we’ll take that, we can see what’s happening’

“But it’s hard for me to see through a 3-0 defeat, although I will.”

Walsall manager Lee Grant paid tribute to his side and their never-say-die attitude.

“It was a fantastic result,” praised Grant. “It was a really well-rounded away display.

“There’s lots to take away from the way we competed in the game.

“We created three goals, which is off the charts and, if you look at the big chances we created, we probably should have had four or five goals in the game.

“But it was an outstanding result for us.

“Of course there’s bits where we’ve got to be better, grow and improve, but my full reflection is that I’m really pleased for the group.

“If we want to play in this division and do okay in this division, then we have to do it every week.

“That’s not for me to dictate, that’s the demands of the division.

“I’m certainly pleased with the characteristics the group are showing when it’s tough.”