Lee penalty helps Gillingham extend unbeaten run with Oxford draw

Posted Sunday, January 19, 2020 by PA

Gillingham extended their unbeaten run to eight league games after coming from behind to draw 1-1 against Oxford.

Tariqe Fosu spectacularly broke the deadlock for the visitors after 16 minutes with a curling effort that marked his first league goal since October.

Nathan Holland headed wide from Josh Ruffels’ cross and defender Sam Long missed the target after meeting Shandon Baptiste’s free-kick as Karl Robinson’s side looked to double their advantage.

Olly Lee’s off-target volley from Connor Ogilvie’s long throw into the box was the closest the hosts came to an equaliser before the break.

However, they did manage to draw level in the 61st minute thanks to Lee’s penalty.

Striker Brandon Hanlan was clumsily fouled by Alex Gorrin and Hearts loanee Lee drew the teams level from the spot.

Oxford goalkeeper Simon Eastwood produced a brilliant finger-tip save to deny Hanlan from heading the hosts in front within two minutes of the Gills’ equaliser.

Now winless in four league games, Robinson’s Oxford almost snatched the victory when Ruffels’ header was deflected onto his own bar by Hanlan 22 minutes from time.