GILLINGHAM, England (Interstat) — Gillingham began its League Two campaign with a 2-0 win over Accring Stanley on Monday at MEMS Priestfield Stadium. The result defied a pre-match projection that favored the visitors.

Andy Smith opened the scoring in the 36th minute before Garath McCleary doubled the lead in the 56th. McCleary, who also assisted on Smith’s goal, was the standout performer in a match marred by discipline issues. The teams combined for eight yellow cards, and Accring Stanley’s Tyler Walton received a red card in the 81st minute after picking up two cautions.

The victory gives Gillingham a winning start to the season, while Accring Stanley begins with a loss.