Peterborough back on top of League One after thrilling win at Gillingham

Posted Sunday, September 23, 2018 by PA

Peterborough returned to the top of League One as a wonderful strike from Ivan Toney helped earn a 4-2 win at Gillingham.

Toney, on his first league start of the campaign, but Posh back ahead after the hosts had fought back from 1-0 down to take the lead during a thrilling start to the second half.

Callum Cooke made the game safe with three minutes left as Posh took advantage of Portsmouth’s slip at home to Wycombe.

Gillingham goalkeeper Tomas Holy had made a trio of excellent saves in the first 12 minutes, denying Matt Godden, Marcus Maddison and Jason Naismith.

But Peterborough found a way through in the 24th minute when Naismith’s terrific low cross was slid in by Jamie Walker.

Gillingham came out flying in the second half and Callum Reilly’s half-volley levelled matters in the 50th minute.

Three minutes later Mark Byrne’s venomous low strike beat Aaron Chapman to give the hosts the lead.

But Siriki Dembele equalised within six minutes after collecting Maddison’s pass, and he then set up Toney, who curled a magnificent finish into the top corner.

Posh settled the match with substitute Cooke calmly finishing off a sweeping counter.