Swindon snatch draw with Gillingham in Ian Holloway’s first match in charge

Posted Sunday, October 27, 2024 by PA

New Swindon boss Ian Holloway saw his side snatch a last-gasp 1-1 draw with Gillingham despite playing most of the match with 10 men.

Harry Smith’s stoppage time equaliser gave Holloway a promising start to his tenure and ensured the hosts ended a run of back-to-back defeats.

Things did not begin well for the Robins when defender Grant Hall was shown a straight red card in just the ninth minute for a brutal challenge which floored Tim Dieng.

Swindon goalkeeper Jack Bycroft then parried Oliver Hawkin’s effort on to the woodwork before the Gills frontman hammered wide with the goal at his mercy.

However, the visitors went ahead in the 16th minute when former Town striker Jacob Wakeling latched on to a long ball and squared for Dieng to tap in.

Smith went close to levelling with a near-post header in a rare attack for the home side, who had sacked Mark Kennedy earlier in the week.

Bycroft then pulled off a stunning save to deny Dieng‘s firm downward header and keep the Robins in the match.

Swindon raised their game after the break and, with seconds remaining, their pressure paid off when Tunmise Sobowale swung in an enticing cross which was met by Smith’s firm far-post header.