Gillingham assistant manager Richard Dobson saw qualities in defeat at Grimsby that should make them a force in League 2 this season

Gillingham assistant boss Richard Dobson saw qualities in defeat at Grimsby that should set them apart from many others in League 2 this season.

The Gills went down to a 1-0 defeat, but for much of the game, they were playing against more players after a double sending off. Remeao Hutton was sent off in the first half and Jonny Williams was dismissed in the second.

Despite the disadvantages, Dobson was delighted with the effort from his side, as the only goal they conceded was from a controversial penalty.

“Those qualities are going to be what sees us through over the course of this season,” said the Gills assistant.

“We'll do well because of the strength of mind that they showed.

“Those sorts of mental qualities and the psychological side of the game are what we're trying so hard to build here, and it is starting to shine through.

“I think certainly that the fans have noticed it. They've commented on it in terms of the attitude of the players this season and the willingness to play for the shirt. I think it really epitomised that today.

“I told them that all the qualities they showed [on Saturday] will be exactly the reason why we end up at the right end of the league.”

The Gills are now four games without a win in League 2, but it’s hard to judge the team on Saturday after being on the wrong end of so many decisions.

“We give it our best efforts,” said the Gills coach. “I don't think anyone can question that.

“We've always said since we came through the door that the boys would give everything they've got. They'd empty the tank week in, week out. That’s just another prime example of them doing that.

“I went away bizarrely a little bit more encouraged about us and what we are and what we've become.

“I think if we