by Alan McGuinness

It's said sports teams who play in red have a psychological advantage over their opponents. In fact a 2008 study claims to have proved it.

Whether it is scientific fact or just mind games, Gillingham are demonstrating there just might be something in it.

After years of playing in traditional blue with mixed success and two disappointing seasons in the lowest Football League division, they switched to red to commemorate 100 years since it changed its name from New Brompton.

And it looks to have worked with new manager Martin Allen’s team riding high and unbeaten at the top of League Two following six wins and a draw.

The shirts have been proving a commercial success too, flying off the shelves in the club shop at Priestfield Stadium.

A far cry from earlier in the year when the new look received a frosty reception from some fans uneasy at the colour change and the old-fashioned lace-up design.

Now Priestfield, and in particular the die-hard fan-dominated Rainham end is a sea of red, with the blue sleeves, on match day.

The kit also includes the badge worn on the shirt when the club changed its named back in 1912.

Joanne Barnes, manager at the club shop, said: "It’s been selling really well – it’s been one of the best selling kits we’ve had.

"We had hundreds of pre-orders and ever since then it’s been going really well."

She added that sales had been boosted by the club’s early season success, which sees the Gills three points clear going into this weekend’s round of League Two fixtures.

Rainham End season ticket holder Tony Tomlin, who has been going to games for 43 years, is still not a fan (of the shirts) though.

He said: "I still think it’s bonkers, but I’ve heard a few people say they quite like it."

The strip could be playing a part in the Gills’ fortunes.

The study four years ago found teams that play in red were more likely to be successful than teams that play in white, yellow or blue.

English football’s three most successful clubs in terms of titles – Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal – all play in red.

Mr Tomlin said: "Football fans will tolerate most things if they’re winning – they could play in pink and grey spots and the fans would be happy."