Saturday's match at Ninian Park against Cardiff City saw Gills player-manager Hessenthaler start the game as manager. However, after he was sent from the dug-out on 40 minutes for leaving his technical area, Hessenthaler returned to the action moments later as a player when he brought himself on as a substitute, replacing Danny Spiller.

This was possible due to the fact that he was sent from the dug-out for a technical issue, rather than a more serious offence such as abusive language or violent conduct which could be charged under The FA's disciplinary regulations.