A couple of late goals meant Billericay lost 3-1 to Gillingham but they can take heart from a battling display in their penultimate pre-season game.

They managed more than either Southend United or Canvey did against the Nationwide Division One side in breaching their defence - Danny Hockton making in 1-1 on 38 minutes.

And Town fans will love the fact that a strong Gills team never looked likely to run riot and bag seven as they did at Park Lane against the Gulls.

Eye on the ball : Billericay's Russell Penn goes head-to-head with Gillingham's Mama Sidibe at New Lodge last night. Town went down 3-1 after conceding two late goals Picture: Terence Bunch

"I was exceptionally pleased with the attitude out there," said New Lodge boss Justin Edinburgh.

"On Saturday at East Thurrock it was a little disappointing with regards commitment, but the lads have bounced back and given it everything tonight."

Published Tuesday, August 5, 2003

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