Gillingham defender Logan Dobbs reacts after a goalless draw against Fleetwood and making his first Football League start

Logan Dobbs is determined to repay the faith shown in him by Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth after making his first league start for the club.

The young defender was handed his opportunity at Fleetwood on Saturday, stepping into the side for captain Liam Gordon, who was left out after suffering an injury the previous weekend.

Dobbs only found out he would be starting on Friday morning but produced a resolute display as the Gills battled to a 0-0 draw following a seven-hour journey north.

The 19-year-old faced the considerable challenge of coming up against experienced forward Ched Evans and admitted it was one of the toughest tests of his career.

“It's probably the hardest forward I've ever faced, but it was good,” said Dobbs.

“I've learned a lot this game that I can obviously take on for the next one, but it's just important that I keep improving.”

Dobbs had spoken to team-mates Omar Beckles, Andy Smith and Gordon before the game about how to handle Evans, taking advice from the more experienced members of the squad.

He said he wanted to “show what I can do” against the veteran striker while still showing him the necessary respect.

For Dobbs, the biggest thing was making the most of the opportunity handed to him by Ainsworth.

“I can't thank Gaffer enough, especially for the opportunity, but I just want to show him what I can do,” he said.

“Show him that he can trust me.”

The defender has been part of a group of young players Ainsworth has looked to involve more closely with the first team this season, with the manager keen to give them opportunities to prove themselves.

Dobbs says the youngsters have developed a strong bond and are determined to make the most of their chances.

“I think the young boys, we're a tight