Sam Hoskins took his tally for the season to 13 goals with a fine first-half finish before he turned provider when teeing up Kieron Bowie for a second 18 minutes from full-time. Cobblers are now five unbeaten in the league and remain in third ahead of next week’s big game at fourth-placed Bradford City. Here are our player ratings from Priestfield…
1. Lee Burge
Gillingham's only shots on target came in the dying embers and none of them caused him any trouble. Best work came from corners as he punched away two or three threatening deliveries. A first clean sheet since Orient nearly a month ago... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
2. Aaron McGowan
For an hour or so this was as sharp as he's looked since returning from injury. Frequently an outlet in the final third and linked effectively with Pinnock on the right. Whipped in some terrific crosses in both halves... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
3. Sam Sherring
Much more like it after his difficult day out at Chesterfield. Gillingham had their moments but his positioning and reading of the game was impeccable as the hosts failed to turn pressure into chances... 8 Photo: Pete Norton
4. Jon Guthrie
Just so dependable in games like this. Mopped up everything either with his head or feet. Also another game ticked off without a yellow - only one more and, unlike Hoskins, he will avoid a ban... 8 Photo: Pete Norton