Gillingham slipped to another League Two defeat that has seen them drop out of the play-off places.

Salford City came to MEMS Priestfield with real optimism of picking up a result and they weren’t to be disappointed against a Gills side that has seen their early season momentum dwindle away.

The visitors took the lead inside seven minutes when Adebola Oluwo’s pass picked out Daniel Udoh and he slotted an effort beyond substitute goalkeeper Jake Turner who had to come on as early as the fourth minute for Glenn Morris who looked to have picked up a hamstring injury.

The hosts had a great chance to level after 23 minutes via the penalty spot when Ethan Coleman was tripped but Bradley Dack saw his effort easily saved by Matt Young.

Ben Woodburn’s through pass then split the Gills defence and Kallum Cesay rounded Turner before his shot crept inside the post via a failed clearance after 27 minutes.

The hosts got themselves back into the game when Sam Vokes’ clever back-flick found Josh Andrews. His first touch was to keep the ball aloft and his second was a drilled low effort which found the bottom corner nine minutes before half-time.

Andrews had a header cleared off the line in the second half, with Young reacting well to deny Dack, but try as they might, the hosts failed to be inspired and lacked a cutting edge.

Seb Palmer-Houlden also went close, placing a shot just wide, as Salford held on.

Salford’s victory sees them climb to 3rd in League Two, whilst The Gills drop to 8th and they will be hoping manager Gareth Ainsworth is soon back after his heart surgery as this time need inspiring and fast.

Gillingham now turn their attention to the FA Cup with a trip to Newport County next Saturday and they will hope it is a chance to have a break from the league.

Gillingham: Morris (Turner 5), Hutton, A. Smith, Ogie, Clark, Coleman (Nevitt 81), McKenzie, Dack (Little 61), Palmer-Houlden (Wyllie 81), Andrews (Rowe 81’, Vokes.

Subs not used: Akomeah, Cirino.

Goal: Andrews (36).

Booked: Dack (57), Coleman (66).

Salford City: Young, Turton, Oluwo, Garbutt, Cooper, Ashley (Butcher 33), Woodburn (Austerfield 67), Cesay, Harris, Udoh, N’Mai (Borini 79).

Subs not used: Howard, Grant, Stockton, Longelo.

Goals: Udoh (7), Cesay (27).

Booked: Udoh (56), Woodburn (58), Garbutt (72), N’Mai (73), Oluwo (85).

Referee: Mr David Rock

Attendance: 6174 (Salford)