Pools came into the fixture knowing the significance against the side one place below them in the league table but they were out-fought at the Priesfield as they slumped to what could be a damaging defeat.
Gillingham new boy Tom Nichols opened the scoring when diverting Alex MacDonald’s free kick in from the left five minutes before half-time before Dom Jefferies doubled the lead on the hour just moments after Hartlepool thought they had equalised.
Mark Shelton beat his man before seeing a strike at goal deflect and loop, seemingly over Glenn Morris’ head, only for Josh Umerah to glance in to make sure from an offside position.
Umerah also hit the post late in the game but it was an afternoon which brings with it huge concern as Pools were comfortably beaten by the Gills.
And here is how Pools were rated.
5. David Ferguson - 4
Got forward once or twice in the first half but not enough in terms of a final ball. Did put in an excellent cross for Umerah when hitting the post and went close with a header in the closing stages. (Credit: Tom West | MI News) Photo: Tom West
6. Nicky Featherstone - 5
Crucial block in the first half when Gillingham were on top. Felt like the only one who showed himself for the ball at times in an attempt to get Pools a foothold. Had to come deeper in the second half. (Credit: Tom West | MI News) Photo: Tom West
7. Matt Dolan - 4
Booked for a bit of a cynical foul on Dieng after he had been beaten to the ball. Put in a couple of very decent dead balls and made a key block in the first half. Showed his versatility when dropping back into defence in the second half. Tough start for him, however. Picture by Hartlepool United Football Club. Photo: Hartlepool United Football Club
8. Mohamad Sylla - 4
Started reasonably when helping out Tumilty defensively but was eased out of the game. Was second best to Dieng in there. (Credit: Scott Llewellyn | MI News) Photo: Scott Llewellyn