Gillingham's American owners have weathered both literal and figurative storms this week, spanning the Atlantic. The dreary north Kent drizzle and Dara Costelloe's heart-wrenching injury-time winner during Brad and Shannon Galinson's UK visit must be viewed in context. The loss not only dashed the Gills' hopes of reclaiming the top spot but also extended their losing streak to three games. However, the outlook for the owners' home and the football club appears brighter than it did just a week ago.
The Galinsons' primary concern was the path of Hurricane Milton, which briefly threatened their Tampa-based family home and real estate empire. Fortunately, the 160mph winds largely spared the Florida resort, allowing their son to report that the family was safe. Additionally, the club navigated a potential crisis by removing former owner Paul Scally from the board. Scally, who has been synonymous with Gillingham for nearly three decades, was initially supportive during the transition. However, at a fan's forum, Galinson cited Scally's treatment of club staff and management of assets as reasons for his removal, necessitating an EGM.
Scally, who still holds 30% of the club, was present for the vote and plans to appeal. Despite his significant stake, the verdict was decisive, with 311 votes to 11 in favor of separation. The announcement of his expulsion was met with cheers, reflecting a sentiment akin to the overthrow of a tyrannical leader rather than the end of a long, albeit controversial, tenure. Scally had been unable to attend matches this season, marking the first time Gillingham kicked off without his involvement since 1995. Under his leadership, the club had reached the Championship but struggled financially, prompting the Galinsons' takeover in December 2022.
Football's capricious nature was evident, with popularity hinging on recent results. At the forum, Mark Bonner joked, "We should have held this two weeks ago, when I was a genius." Despite his efforts to correct basic errors, the team's performance remained subpar, drawing boos from the home crowd. Accrington dominated the match, with Costelloe missing a golden opportunity in the 35th minute. Gillingham briefly rallied, but Accrington's Armani Little and Woods scored, with Costelloe sealing the win in injury time.
