Phil Parkinson named a much-changed side for the visit to Priestfield, but his side were once again underwhelming and were undone in controversial circumstances at Priestfield as Connor Ogilvie netted late on.
But who emerged with credit from the 1-0 defeat? Scroll down and click through the pages to see how our Sunderland AFC writer, Phil Smith, rated the individual performances on display:
9. Luke O'Nien
Came close early in the second half when forcing a decent stop from Jack Bonham, but otherwise struggled to get himself into the game during what was a bruising aerial contest. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
10. Marc McNulty
Back in the side after a hamstring problem and looked off the pace, though had little service particularly in an insipid first half. 5 Photo: FRANK REID
11. Will Grigg
Battled relatively well with no service whatsoever in the first half, and looked like he had produced a vital assist for Charlie Wyke late on before the goal was ruled out. 5 Photo: FRANK REID 2019
12. Charlie Wyke
Made a big difference to his side. Went close with an early effort and had a goal ruled out before Gillingham’s late winner. 6 Photo: FRANK REID